Ellen DeGeneres, the former US talk show host, appears set to make her Cotswolds country estate a long-term residence after submitting plans to build horse stables on the property. In 2024, Ellen and her partner Portia de Rossi purchased Kitesbridge Farm near Burford for £15 million. Despite investing around £7.5 million on extensive renovations, the couple moved out shortly after purchasing, seeking a property more suited to Portia’s passion for horses.
Initially listed for sale in July without attracting a buyer, the flood-prone 43-acre estate by the River Windrush faced uncertainty. Rumors of a potential sale emerged after a substantial price reduction, but the property remains unsold. Now, fresh planning applications reveal Ellen and Portia’s intention to transform the farm into their long-term home, contingent on approval for new equestrian facilities.
The submitted plans to West Oxfordshire District Council propose demolishing an existing agricultural building to create new stables. Their representatives explain in the design and access statement that while the renovation was successful, the property currently lacks appropriate horse training and stabling facilities. The new building aims to address this need with sensitivity to the local architectural style.
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The proposed stables will feature two loose boxes and storage within a single, vernacular-style stone building with a pitched tile roof. Designed to harmonize with the surrounding structures, the building is carefully positioned to align with nearby barns and avoid disturbing the landscape. This new stable is considered a balanced alternative to larger, more imposing American-style barns or multiple smaller structures that might lack practicality.
Ellen has publicly expressed the importance of equestrian facilities to their lifestyle, stating, “When we decided to live here full time, we knew that Portia couldn’t live without her horses.” The planning documents emphasize the owners’ identity as horse enthusiasts and the need for adequate stable space.
The design thoughtfully includes a first-floor hayloft and storage area accessible by tallet steps, enhancing functionality without impacting the estate’s aesthetic. The application highlights that replacing the current agricultural shed with a traditional stone building will improve the estate’s appearance and cohesion.
The developers hope for swift council approval, noting that the well-considered stable plan will enhance the property without compromising local amenities or visual harmony. No public comments have been recorded so far, with the planning decision pending from West Oxfordshire District Council.