Culture
Royalty or Rubbish? The Outrageous Estates of UK Celebrities
By Sophie Clarke · 2026-04-18 · 14 min read
British celebrities have never been shy about their real estate ambitions. From converted barns in Cheshire to Californian cliff-top retreats, the property portfolios of UK stars make for fascinating reading. Here is a look at some of the most notable estates owned by familiar British faces.
Simon Cowell – Malibu
Acquiring an estate valued at over £18 million in Malibu is no small undertaking. For a producer of Simon's stature, the 10,000-square-foot property is simply another addition to his extensive real estate holdings. This single-storey residence boasts seven bedrooms and nine bathrooms, offering ample space for luxurious living.
Nestled on a private bluff along the Pacific Coast Highway, the property provides breathtaking ocean views. The estate's amenities include a swimming pool, spa, a professional-grade tennis court, and a four-car garage.
Elton John – Nice
Perched atop Mont Boron, Elton John's villa is a statement of his flamboyant style and love for luxury. This 1920s mansion, affectionately known as "Castle of the Stars," boasts panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea and the city of Nice. In 2019, the villa gained international attention when he hosted guests including various royals and celebrities.
The property features seven bedrooms, a grand salon adorned with crystal chandeliers, and a recording studio. The meticulously landscaped gardens span over 50,000 square feet, including a mosaic-tiled swimming pool and an olive grove.
Gordon Ramsay – Cornwall
With extensive renovations, Gordon Ramsay has elevated his beachfront villa to an entirely new level. Reports suggest the property now features a more eco-friendly energy source. Gordon initially demolished an existing 1920s house to construct a modern family retreat featuring an expansive main house and a smaller Garden House, both offering panoramic views of the Camel Estuary.
David Beckham – The Cotswolds
Football icon David Beckham and his wife, Victoria, purchased a stunning converted barn in the heart of the Cotswolds. This luxurious countryside retreat features a spacious open-plan living area with original stone fireplaces and vaulted ceilings supported by exposed wooden beams.
The expansive estate includes a football pitch, a swimming pool, and an artificial lake complete with a wooden jetty. David has embraced rural life by cultivating a vegetable garden and engaging in beekeeping.
Gary Neville – Bolton
At the age of 21, Gary Neville acquired a dilapidated barn in Bolton and transformed it into a luxurious residence, marking the inception of his passion for property development. The estate, known as Meadow Barn, became a testament to his vision for blending modern luxury with rustic charm — and laid the foundation for his burgeoning property empire.
Anthony Hopkins – Malibu
Sir Anthony Hopkins purchased a Cape Cod-style estate in Malibu. This 4,000-square-foot sanctuary sits on the Point Dume Bluff, offering panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. The residence featured five bedrooms, a swimming pool, a detached guesthouse, and a pool cabana that Sir Anthony used as an art studio.
Daniel Craig – New York
Actor Daniel Craig acquired a historic brownstone in Brooklyn's Cobble Hill neighbourhood alongside his wife, actress Rachel Weisz. This 1901 five-storey residence spans 6,600 square feet and boasts six bedrooms. The home features a spacious terrace, multiple balconies, and a private garden — one of the neighbourhood's most coveted residences.
Emma Watson – Beverly Hills
Emma Watson acquired a luxurious condominium in the prestigious Sierra Towers of Beverly Hills. This 1,400-square-foot residence, perched on the 22nd floor, offers sweeping views of Los Angeles. The open-concept living area features floor-to-ceiling windows, and the gourmet kitchen boasts Italian marble countertops.
Wayne Rooney – Cheshire
Wayne Rooney spent nearly four years constructing a lavish mansion in Cheshire's prestigious "Golden Triangle." This six-bedroom estate, named High Lake Manor, sprawls over 40 acres. The property features a wine cellar, an indoor swimming pool with a jacuzzi, a private cinema, and a full-size football pitch.
Frank Lampard – London
Frank Lampard and his wife Christine acquired a luxurious townhouse in Chelsea. This residence boasts six spacious bedrooms, multiple reception rooms, a private gym, a home cinema, and an underground swimming pool.
Maggie Smith – Pulborough
Dame Maggie Smith resides in a 15th-century red brick farmhouse in Pulborough, West Sussex. She and her late husband purchased the property in 1981. This five-bedroom residence features three barns, a vineyard, horse stables, and a flourishing orchard.
Kate Winslet – Sussex
Kate Winslet acquired a 17th-century beachside residence in West Wittering, West Sussex. This eight-bedroom home overlooking the sea has been enhanced by the addition of a basement swimming pool and pool house.
Helena Bonham Carter – London
Helena Bonham Carter acquired a unique property in Belsize Park, London — dating back to 1880 and originally functioning as a group of artist studios. The property became celebrated for its bohemian character and artistic heritage.
Kate Moss – London
Kate Moss purchased a historic Highgate mansion in London. This Georgian gem spans approximately 6,728 square feet and boasts seven bedrooms, four bathrooms, and multiple reception rooms. The residence has a rich literary history, having been home to poet Samuel Taylor Coleridge.
Hugh Grant – London
Hugh Grant acquired a semi-detached mansion in West London's Kensington and Chelsea borough. This six-bedroom residence is situated on a private street in a prestigious area renowned for its proximity to parks including the serene Holland Park.
Elizabeth Hurley – Herefordshire
Elizabeth Hurley owns the stunning Donnington Hall in Herefordshire, purchased in 2012. This Georgian estate sprawls over 187 acres, with a main house boasting 13 bedrooms, four cottages, 12 stables, a coach house, and a private fishing lake.
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