BBC pays out £2m in legal costs to Sir Cliff Richard | Cliff Richard | The Guardian

Introduction:

Sir Cliff Richard, one of Britain’s most enduring music icons, has quietly begun reshaping his personal and financial landscape, placing several high-profile properties on the market while navigating the lingering aftershocks of legal battles and public scrutiny. At 77, the singer appears to be making deliberate choices aimed at slowing the pace of life and reclaiming a sense of control after years of turbulence.

Most recently, Sir Cliff has put his luxurious six-bedroom villa in Barbados up for sale, just one year after listing his Berkshire apartment. The elegant mansion, located within the exclusive Sugar Hill Resort on the island’s west coast, boasts sweeping sea views and a host of high-end amenities. While the exact asking price has not been disclosed, comparable properties in the area are believed to sell for around £2.5 million. The villa features a large covered terrace with formal and informal dining areas, a bar, tennis courts, and a substantial swimming pool with a pool house offering a second kitchen and dining space. Residents of Sugar Hill also enjoy access to a private clubhouse, restaurants, shared pools, a gym, and 24-hour security.

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The news of the Barbados sale emerged just weeks after a High Court judge warned that details of Sir Cliff’s personal finances could potentially be revealed during his ongoing legal dispute with the BBC. The case stems from the broadcaster’s coverage of a police raid on his Sunningdale apartment in August 2014, during an investigation into historical sexual abuse allegations. Sir Cliff was never arrested or charged, and prosecutors confirmed in June 2016 that he would face no charges.

That Berkshire apartment, which Sir Cliff described as having been “defiled” by the televised raid, was later sold for £2.9 million in June 2016. The ordeal marked one of the most distressing chapters of his life, prompting him to seek refuge elsewhere—most notably in Portugal.

His Portuguese vineyard, located in the Algarve region, has also undergone price reductions. Originally listed at £4.8 million, the price was lowered to £5.5 million earlier this year and then reduced again to £4.6 million. The expansive property spans 60,000 square meters and includes 11 bedrooms across two mansions, offering panoramic views over vineyards and toward the Algarve coastline. Importantly, this sale relates to Sir Cliff’s winery business rather than his nearby private residence. Since 2001, the vineyard has produced Villa Nova Mediterranean wines, managed by neighbors Nigel and Leslie Birch.

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Reflecting on the decision to sell, Sir Cliff has spoken candidly about the emotional significance of the property. He described the Algarve as both a place of deep despair and profound healing during the period following the police investigation. While the vineyard did not erase the pain, it provided a sanctuary during the most difficult time of his life.

Despite these changes, Sir Cliff shows no sign of retreating from music. He is preparing to celebrate his 60th anniversary in the industry with a series of concerts across Ireland, the UK, and Denmark. As he rebalances his personal world, Sir Cliff Richard remains steadfast in his artistry—moving forward with grace, resilience, and an undiminished connection to his audience.

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