In recent years, Somerset has become a magnet for celebrities seeking tranquility and a change of pace from the hustle of the spotlight. This festive season, you might find yourself sharing the charming Somerset villages with some well-known personalities who have made the area their home or countryside escape.
Hollywood actor Nicolas Cage, famed for his intense roles in Face/Off and Con Air, enjoys unwinding at his country retreat near Baltonsborough. His connection to the area was confirmed when he was seen socialising with locals in a pub in Wells.
Hermione Norris, beloved for her role in Cold Feet, resides in the village of Odcombe, close to Yeovil, and is frequently spotted around the town.
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Deborah Meaden, known for her sharp insights on Dragons' Den, calls the Somerset Levels near Langport home, where she balances business with the peaceful countryside life.
Theatre impresario Cameron Mackintosh is rumoured to live near Bruton, an area that has seen several famous residents in recent years, including substantial support for local causes.
Sean Bean, a Game of Thrones veteran, has firmly established himself in the West Country, with a home near Wincanton. His connection to the region was further celebrated with his marriage at Axnoller Farm near Beaminster.
Johnny Depp, one of the most successful film stars in history, is reportedly a frequent visitor to Bath and is believed to own multiple properties in the Somerset countryside, favouring privacy and natural beauty.
Peter Andre, the reality TV star and singer, maintains strong ties to Somerset through his marriage to Emily MacDonagh, a doctor from Taunton. The couple and their family live just outside the county town, where Andre is sometimes spotted enjoying local shopping.
Val Stones, a beloved face from The Great British Bake Off, continues to delight fans with her cakes and charitable efforts, including a recent trek along the Great Wall of China for the NSPCC.
Lynne Franks, the real-life inspiration for Jennifer Saunders’ Absolutely Fabulous characters, has recently moved to Wincanton, taking over the historic Red Lion for a new business project.
Kevin McCloud, presenter of Channel 4’s Grand Designs, has also embraced Somerset living, with a home in Bruton—a hotspot for celebrities seeking inspiration amid the countryside.
Notting Hill star Tim Roth owns property in Somerset, enjoying a peaceful retreat away from the film industry bustle.
Martin Roberts, presenter of Homes Under the Hammer, has lived in a village just outside Bath for two decades and recently gained fresh public attention following his appearance on I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here!
Just beyond Somerset’s border, former Blue Peter presenter Valerie Singleton has long been a resident of Corton Denham near Sherborne, honoured with an OBE for her services to children’s television in 1994.
This festive season, keep your eyes open—you may just catch a glimpse of one of these celebrities enjoying the serene beauty and festive spirit of Somerset’s villages.