Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen’s Mission to Save the Cotswolds

In a vibrant display of rebellion against “celebrity gloss,” design icon Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen is on a mission to reclaim the authenticity of The Cotswolds. This bold initiative comes in the wake of what he describes as the “Instagramification” of the charming English countryside, which has become a haven for the elite. Recently, he unveiled his latest endeavor, the impeccably restored Eleven Bibury, featuring historic interiors, quaint tea rooms, and a carefully curated retail area, all nestled in the picturesque village of Bibury. “This isn’t about style over substance,” he asserted in an interview with GB News. “It’s about bringing back authenticity – the Cotswolds as they were meant to be.”

Laurence’s fight goes beyond mere design. Flamboyantly, he expressed his frustration with the likes of the Beckhams and their influence, stating, “This is a bit of a fight-back, against what’s going on in other areas of the Cotswolds — places like Soho Farmhouse.” His vision is cleato reconnect with the true essence of the region, preserving its heritage without the need for a social media facelift.

“What we’re doing here is enshrining this concept of the Cotswolds as having a very powerful heritage,” Laurence explained. “An incredibly important sense of identity — one that doesn’t need to be rebranded for social media.” The Beckhams, who’ve owned a property in the region since 2016, have become synonymous with the luxury lifestyle that many now associate with The Cotswolds.

In an intriguing twist, Laurence revealed that he has handed over his Cotswolds estate to his sons-in-law, inviting family members to join him in what he affectionately calls “Chateau LLB.” Despite this heartwarming gesture, the 60-year-old confesses his “retirement is going very badly.”

Best known as the star of the BBC’s beloved 90s series Changing Rooms, Laurence boasts a net worth of £8 million. Eager to pass the torch, his plans include handing his business down to his daughters, Hermione and Cecile, whom he calls his “commonwealth.” This idea of sharing resources within the family resonates with him deeply, stating, “It’s very ordinary to do.”

Laurence currently resides on his sprawling estate with his wife, Jackie, alongside their daughter Hermione and her two young children. Just a stone’s throw away, Cecile lives with her husband and their young family, transforming the estate into a vibrant family hub.