Ellen DeGeneres and her partner, Portia de Rossi, are pursuing planning permission to construct an all-weather riding arena at their flood-affected estate in the Cotswolds. The couple’s 43-acre Kitesbridge Farm, near Burford, frequently floods during winter months due to the River Windrush flowing through the property, limiting their horses’ ability to train year-round.
The couple, who purchased the £15 million estate in 2024 and invested approximately £7.5 million in renovations, initially intended to sell the property. However, the estate failed to attract buyers, and Ellen and Portia have now expressed their intention to make it their long-term home.
To accommodate their equestrian lifestyle, they have submitted new plans for stables and the all-weather riding arena, strategically located outside the flood zone. Their goal is to provide consistent training space for their horses without the need for daily relocation during wetter periods.
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Representatives stated that while the estate’s terrain allows summer exercise, winter flooding hampers the horses’ training. The proposed arena would be adjacent to the new stables, blending with the natural landscape and existing buildings. The plans also emphasize minimal environmental disturbance, with all soil excavation reused onsite to avoid local traffic disruption.
Despite benefits for the horses, the proposals face hurdles due to the estate’s historical significance. Archaeological reports highlight potential Roman remains nearby, including a former Roman bridge, road, villa, and bathhouse. The West Oxfordshire District Council’s archaeological team recommends monitoring during construction to protect any remains uncovered.
Ellen and Portia’s representatives stress that the project complies with local development policies, arguing there would be no adverse impact on neighbors or the countryside’s character. They emphasize the need for stabling facilities reflecting the vernacular architectural style already present on the property.
The couple has voiced their deep commitment to the location and their horses’ welfare. Ellen stated, “When we decided to live here full time, we knew that Portia couldn’t live without her horses. We needed a home that had a horse facility and pastures for them.”
West Oxfordshire District Council is currently reviewing both the stable and riding arena applications, with decisions expected in due course.