About Guernsey

Although Guernsey is geographically much closer to France than the UK, it is loyal to the British crown. This loyalty can be traced back to Norman times when the Channel Islands first became part of the English realm and forms the basis of the island’s constitution.

Today the island is self-governing and enjoys the same level of independence it has had since first becoming associated with England.

Guernsey’s ability to look after its own fiscal affairs has meant that it has been able to foster a favourable tax climate. This has led to many offshore banks, fund managers and insurance companies establishing here. Whilst the traditional industries of flower growing, fishing and dairy farming still play an important part, contributing both to the varied economy and to the island’s character. There are also a number of high profile light industries based on the island, including Specsavers Optical Group and Healthspan. 

Guernsey also has its own stamps and currency, and while British pounds can be used on the island, Guernsey pounds cannot be used in the UK.

Guernsey people enjoy their free time.  Being an island, with a warmer climate than the UK, much time is spent outside; on the beach, walking the cliffs, island hopping or eating ‘al fresco’.    The Island has great sporting facilities and a programme of events throughout the year.

Climate

Guernsey is part of the southernmost archipelago in the British Isles sitting in the Bay of St Malo, a little less than 30 miles from the French coast.

As a result Guernsey has a milder climate then the UK and enjoys more sunshine hours each year. This allows for an outdoor-based lifestyle that makes maximum use of the natural surroundings. It also means that a number of plants and flowers, that couldn’t survive in Britain, are able to thrive in Guernsey. The Island rarely sees frost and snow is somewhat of a rarity.


Follow the links below for further, information about the many different aspects of life on Guernsey.