Helping Clients Make Confident Financial Decisions Since 1991.
Our job is to turn uncertainty into clarity — helping you take control of your financial future.
Where It All Began
Highclere Financial Services was founded to make financial advice feel more personal, more accessible, and more relevant to everyday life. Alan Lakey set out with that vision, building trusted relationships with clients across Hemel Hempstead, Apsley, and now Berkhamsted.
In 2016, Steven Sibley joined as a Director — bringing his own experience and a shared commitment to long-term support and clear, honest advice. Together, Alan and Steve lead a business that puts people first, helping clients make better financial decisions at every stage of life.
What You Can Expect From Us
We know how important it is to feel informed, supported, and confident in your decisions — here’s how we help make that happen.
1
Give you clarity and confidence
We break down complex decisions and explain your options in plain English — so you feel in control every step of the way.
2
Support you at every stage of life
From first homes to retirement plans, we provide advice that adapts to your needs and goals — now and in the future.
3
Offer honest advice that puts you first
We take the time to understand what matters to you — and give recommendations based on your best interests, not box-ticking.
Why Highclere Financial Services
Highclere Financial Services has been a trusted name in independent financial advice since 1991. With over 30 years of experience, we’ve helped individuals and families make confident, well-informed decisions about their financial future.
Now based on Berkhamsted High Street, we’ve proudly supported clients across Hertfordshire and beyond—from our early days in Hemel Hempstead Marlowes to our time on Apsley High Street.
What sets us apart is our personal approach. Whether planning for retirement, protecting your family, or securing a mortgage, we take time to understand your goals and offer clear, tailored advice at every stage.
At Highclere, you’re not just a client-you’re a valued individual. Let us help you shape a brighter financial future with advice you can trust and service you can depend on.
Personal Profiles. Your Advisers
Experienced, approachable, and here to support you — meet the advisers leading Highclere Financial Services.
Founder & Director
Alan Lakey
Alan founded Highclere Financial Services with a vision to make financial advice more personal, transparent, and easy to understand. With over 30 years of experience, he is widely recognised for his expertise in protection planning — particularly critical illness cover — alongside mortgages and retirement advice. Alan has been cited in publications including The Financial Times and has received numerous industry awards throughout his career. Known for his clear, no-nonsense approach, he’s committed to helping clients feel confident in their decisions and building trusted relationships that stand the test of time.
Director
Steven Sibley
Steven joined Highclere Financial Services as a partner in 2016, bringing over 30 years of experience in financial advice. He works across mortgages, protection, pensions, and investments, and is known for his clear communication and approachable, down-to-earth style. With a strong focus on building long-term client relationships, Steven takes time to understand each individual’s goals and provides advice that supports confident, well-informed decisions. His calm, practical approach has made him a trusted point of contact for many of our long-standing clients.
Recognition & Awards
Alan Lakey has been recognised throughout the financial services industry for the quality of his advice and his contribution to the profession. Over the past three decades, he has received more than 2O national awards — including three wins for loney Management’s Mortgage Planner of the Year, and multiple titles as Protection Adviser of the Year. Alan’s insight has been featured in national and specialist financial publications, and his expertise in critical illness cover and protection planning is widely acknowledged across the industry.
What Sets Us Apart
We’re proud of the way we work — and even prouder of why our clients choose to stay with us.
Personal, Ongoing Support
We build long-term relationships — offering guidance that evolves with your needs, not just one-off advice.
Local Expertise, National Reach
Based in Berkhamsted, we serve clients across Hertfordshire and beyond — both face-to-face and remotely.
Clear, Honest Communication
No jargon, no pressure — just practical advice and transparent recommendations.
Joined-Up Thinking
We work closely with trusted professionals like solicitors and estate agents to make the process smoother for you.
All Under One Roof
From mortgages to retirement planning, our cohesive advice helps you manage every stage of life with confidence.
Advice That Puts You First
We recommend what’s right for you — not what’s easiest or expected. Every decision starts with your best interests.
Let's Start the Conversation
Planning for the future starts with a simple chat — we're here to help.