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Guy Hands’ luxury homes up for sale – ‘but I’m staying’

GUY HANDS, one of the island’s wealthiest residents, has put two of his local houses on the market, but says he has no intention of leaving Guernsey.

uy Hands has put two of his local properties on the market, Normanville in St Peter Port, pictured, and the west coast property Ocean House, which overlooks Rocquaine Bay. (34334120)
uy Hands has put two of his local properties on the market, Normanville in St Peter Port, pictured, and the west coast property Ocean House, which overlooks Rocquaine Bay. (34334120) / Guernsey Press

The two properties in question are the historic stately home Normanville in St Peter Port, and the west coast property Ocean House, which overlooks Rocquaine Bay.

Although Mr Hands would not comment on the reasons behind the sale, he said it did not change his commitment to the island.

‘We love living in Guernsey and plan to be here for the rest of our lives,’ he said.

‘Guernsey has a wonderful friendly community spirit and beautiful seascapes.’

Mr Hands founded Terra Firma Capital Partners, which he built into one of the largest private equity investors in Europe.

He moved to Guernsey in 2009 and has invested in local businesses, particularly hotels with his wife Julia, through the Hand Picked Hotels brand.

When Mr Hands purchased Normanville for £15.21m. at the end of December 2021 it was believed to be the most expensive property sale in Guernsey ever.

However, this record was smashed by the £24.37m. paid for the St George’s Estate in Castel, which had an asking price of £25m. and had been for sale since May 2022.

The 15,000 sq. ft Normanville mansion, which dates back to 1478, has seven bedrooms, 10 bathrooms, an indoor swimming pool and leisure suite, private cinema and separate staff accommodation.

It also boasts a tennis court, lake and a woodland park wildlife sanctuary.

The property listing says it ‘is more than a home – it’s a legacy waiting to be continued’.

‘Step into a world of timeless elegance with this extraordinary 17-acre stately home, a distinguished property steeped in Guernsey’s rich history since the 15th century,’ it says.

The more modest Ocean House is a slightly more modern offering with a design inspired by iconic architect Frank Lloyd Wright.

However, it stills features five bedroom suites, five reception rooms, an infinity pool, ‘luxurious’ sauna, a steam room and a Japanese garden.

‘Perched above Guernsey’s stunning west coast, this exceptional residence boasts sweeping 220-degree sea views and unforgettable sunsets,’ the listing states. ‘With over 11,000 sq. ft of luxurious space, this home promises refined living, utmost privacy, and serenity in an iconic setting.’

Built in 2002, it last changed hands for £6.65m. in 2008.

Both houses are on sale with Swoffers and marketed as ‘price on application’.

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