Best Places to Live in Guernsey: A New Resident’s Guide
Guernsey, one of the picturesque Channel Islands, is a hidden gem for those seeking a high quality of life in a stunning coastal setting.
With its mild climate, low crime rates, and favourable tax system, it’s no wonder that this beautiful island is a popular choice for new residents.
Whether you’re drawn by its charming seaside towns, breathtaking cliffs, or strong sense of community, Guernsey offers an exceptional lifestyle that blends modern convenience with traditional island charm.
One of the island’s key attractions is its work-life balance.
Residents enjoy a relaxed pace of life while still benefiting from excellent infrastructure, high-quality healthcare, and a thriving economy. Its proximity to the UK and France also makes travel convenient, adding to its appeal for professionals, retirees, and families alike.
From the bustling streets of St. Peter Port to the tranquil countryside of St. Saviour, Guernsey has a location to suit every lifestyle.
Whether you prefer a vibrant harbour town or a peaceful rural retreat, the island provides a variety of living environments, each with its own unique charm.
In this guide, we’ll explore seven of the best places to live in Guernsey, helping you find the perfect spot to call home.
1. St. Peter Port
St. Peter Port
As the island’s capital, St. Peter Port is a vibrant harbour town known for its picturesque seafront, cobbled streets, and historic architecture.
Residents enjoy a plethora of amenities, including boutique shops, gourmet restaurants, and cultural venues.
The town’s central location ensures easy access to other parts of the island, making it ideal for those seeking a lively urban environment.
The area also boasts excellent transport links, with ferries connecting to other Channel Islands, the UK, and France.
Notably, St. Peter Port is the most densely populated parish, housing approximately 30.2% of Guernsey’s population.
Property prices are notoriously high right across the island and prices in this location start from £425,000.
2. St. Martin
St. Martin
Located to the south of St. Peter Port, St. Martin is renowned for its scenic beauty, featuring lush countryside and stunning coastal cliffs.
The parish offers a blend of rural charm and modern conveniences, including excellent schools.
Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the numerous walking trails and proximity to bays like Moulin Huet, celebrated by the artist Renoir.
St. Martin also boasts a selection of charming pubs and restaurants, offering a relaxed dining experience with spectacular views.
Property in this area is highly sought after, particularly for those who enjoy a balance of peaceful countryside living while remaining close to the capital
3. Castel
Castel
Castel, the largest parish by area, boasts a mix of agricultural land, residential zones, and beautiful beaches such as Cobo Bay.
The parish provides a peaceful environment with a strong community spirit, making it popular among families.
Local attractions include the Saumarez Park, which hosts various events and houses the National Trust of Guernsey Folk Museum.
The area has a mix of traditional Guernsey farmhouses and modern properties, catering to a wide range of homebuyers.
With good schools and family-friendly facilities, Castel remains one of the island’s most desirable places to live.
4. St. Sampson
St. Sampson
Situated on the east coast, St. Sampson is Guernsey’s second-largest town and a significant industrial hub.
The parish combines residential areas with commercial enterprises, offering residents a dynamic living environment.
The Bridge, St. Sampson’s main shopping area, provides various retail options, including supermarkets, independent shops, and restaurants.
The marina adds to the locale’s charm, providing mooring for boats and access to scenic coastal walks.
St. Sampson has a rich maritime heritage, and the presence of traditional shipyards and docks still gives it an authentic character.
The area has undergone regeneration in recent years, with new housing developments and improved infrastructure, making it an increasingly popular choice for those looking for a blend of history and modern convenience.
5. St. Saviour
St. Saviour
For those seeking tranquillity, St. Saviour offers expansive green fields, traditional farmhouses, and a serene atmosphere.
The parish is less developed, providing a rural retreat while still being accessible to the island’s amenities.
Notable sites include the St. Saviour’s Reservoir, a popular spot for leisurely walks and birdwatching.
The area is also home to several historic sites, including 13th-century churches and ancient dolmens that provide insight into Guernsey’s past.
St. Saviour attracts those who appreciate a slower pace of life, offering a great selection of countryside properties.
With its rolling hills and hidden lanes, this parish is perfect for outdoor lovers who enjoy hiking, cycling, or simply unwinding in nature.
6. Forest
Forest
The Forest parish, located in the island’s southern part, is known for its elevated position, offering panoramic views and proximity to Guernsey Airport.
Despite its small size, it provides a tight-knit community feel, with local pubs, churches, and scenic lanes.
The nearby Petit Bôt Bay is a hidden gem. It’s sheltered calm shores are perfect for beach outings with the children while its clear waters are ideal for swimming or paddle boarding.
The parish also has a selection of charming cottages and luxurious homes, often commanding premium prices due to their desirable location.
A home in this lovely parish is not cheap, with one-bedroom properties starting at £460,000.
With great access to coastal walks and peaceful countryside, Forest is perfect for those looking for a secluded yet connected place to live.
7. Torteval
Torteval
Torteval, the island’s smallest parish, is celebrated for its rugged coastline and the iconic Torteval Church, which boasts the tallest steeple in Guernsey.
The area is ideal for those who appreciate nature. Almost entirely surrounded by greenery, offering coastal paths with breathtaking views and a peaceful rural setting.
The quiet, countryside charm makes Torteval highly sought-after, particularly among retirees or those looking for a rural escape.
It is also home to some of Guernsey’s most stunning cliff paths, providing opportunities for wildlife spotting and incredible ocean vistas.
Living here comes at a high price. Only two homes are available currently, with the cheapest for sale at a cool £1,785,000.
8. Vale
Vale
Vale, located in the northern part of Guernsey, is a diverse parish offering both coastal and countryside living.
With scenic beaches like L’Ancresse Bay and Pembroke Bay, it’s a paradise for those who love outdoor activities such as swimming, walking, and golfing.
Vale also boasts excellent schools, local amenities, and a strong community feel.
It’s a great choice for families and retirees looking for a mix of convenience and natural beauty.
The parish features a variety of homes, from traditional stone cottages to modern seaside residences.
A benefit of living in this charming location is that homes are for sale start from £295,000 making it an appealing option for those looking for a more affordable alternative to St. Peter Port.
9. St. Andrew
St. Andrew
Known as the “heart of Guernsey,” St. Andrew is the only landlocked parish on the island.
It’s a peaceful and picturesque area with rolling green fields, historic farmhouses, and charming rural lanes.
The parish is home to many walking trails and nature reserves, making it ideal for nature lovers.
While it offers a countryside retreat, St. Andrew is still within easy reach of St. Peter Port, providing residents with the best of both worlds.
The tight-knit community, excellent schools, and traditional events held throughout the year add to its appeal.
With a slower pace of life and beautiful landscapes, St. Andrew is perfect for those who appreciate a quiet, countryside setting.
10. St. Pierre du Bois
St. Pierre du Bois
For those seeking a tranquil and traditional way of life, St. Pierre du Bois is an excellent choice.
This western parish is known for its lush landscapes, unspoiled coastline, and charming village atmosphere.
It’s home to Rocquaine Bay, one of the few shingle beaches on the island, perfect for relaxation and water sports.
It is also the venue of the popular summer event, the Rocquaine Regetta, a full day and evening of entertainment and activities for people of all ages.
With a friendly community, great local pubs, and a slower pace of life, this area is ideal for anyone wanting to escape the hustle and bustle while staying connected to Guernsey’s amenities.
Guernsey – Charm and Character
As you can see, Guernsey offers a diverse range of locations, each with its own unique charm and character.
From the busier streets of St. Peter Port to the tranquil landscapes of St. Pierre du Bois, the island caters to a wide variety of lifestyles.
Whether you prefer coastal living, countryside retreats, or urban convenience, there is a parish to suit your needs.
With stunning scenery, a strong sense of community, and excellent amenities, Guernsey remains a highly desirable place to call home.
Why not take time to investigate our “Ultimate Guide to Living in Guernsey” article which offers both a practical and informative insight to what it is like to live on this most stunning island.
Are you ready to move to Guernsey?
When it comes to relocating, choosing the perfect town or parish is only the first step.
No matter where you decide to settle, White & Company is here to make your move as seamless as possible.
As a trusted member of the British Association of Removers (BAR), we ensure that your relocation is handled professionally and securely.
Hiring a BAR-accredited company gives you the peace of mind that your move is in safe hands, as members must meet strict industry standards and regulations.
Our Guernsey depot, located in St Peters Port is familiar with all parts of the island and can provide you with a door-to-door removal and storage service tailored to your specific needs.
Whether you’re moving to the vibrant capital of St. Peter Port, the scenic coastline of St. Martin, or the tranquil countryside of St. Saviour, our experienced team is ready to assist ypou every step of the way.
Plus, with our video survey service, we can conduct a complete home survey remotely, ensuring minimal disruption to your schedule while gathering all the essential details for your move.
Don’t let the stress of moving overshadow the excitement of starting a new life in Guernsey.
For a fast and free removals quote, telephone us on 01481 736868, and our friendly team will be ready to help. Alternatively, complete our no-obligation online removals quote form.
We will contact you with a price as soon as possible – let us handle the logistics, making your dream move to Guernsey a reality.
Max is a seasoned writer and blogger in the real estate and home moving sectors, as well as a knowledgeable source of information for expatriates living and working abroad. His detailed insights have helped thousands of people move and live abroad with greater simplicity and ease.
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