Kevin McCloud, the renowned presenter of Channel 4’s Grand Designs, has spoken warmly about a flourishing Somerset town that embodies a “nice, slow casserole” of growth. Having spent around 30 years living in the county, Kevin reflects on the diverse charm and regeneration of the areas he once called home.
Moving to Somerset in the 1980s, Kevin was drawn to its distinctly regional character and the availability of affordable studio spaces far from the hustle of London. Although the capital is just a few hours away by car or train, his rural upbringing fostered a deep appreciation for the quiet connection Somerset offered—a quieter atmosphere that has gradually shifted as urbanites moved into the area.
Among the towns that have captured his admiration is Frome, where Kevin lived with his first wife. Once a quieter locale, Frome has blossomed into a lively centre packed with independent shops and small retailers. He describes its regeneration as patient and organic, noting how rapid development can feel forced and coarse, often leaving communities behind. Instead, Frome’s steady growth over three decades has created a genuinely thriving town with a unique and enduring character.
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Kevin’s affection for Somerset extends beyond its towns to the landscape itself. He praises the Levels and the Mendip Hills, calling the latter “bleak and magnificent” and comparable to the Peak District. Somerset’s varied geography offers many distinct experiences, with each area presenting a different character and charm.
Particularly fond of The Levels, Kevin highlights its rich birdlife, traditional willow weaving, and farming communities. The area remains largely unchanged since the 1940s, preserving the essence of old Somerset with its near-inaccessible, timeless spaces.
Kevin shared these reflections ahead of Grand Designs Live 2025 in Birmingham, the UK’s premier home and design exhibition, where his passion for unique spaces and thoughtful regeneration continues to inspire.