Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen, the renowned interior designer who has called the Cotswolds home for over 20 years, has offered a frank perspective on the area’s growing celebrity allure. Once a quiet haven, the Gloucestershire region has blossomed into a magnet for stars like Beyoncé and Jay-Z, David and Victoria Beckham, and Kate Moss, elevating its profile across the country.
More recently, Jeremy Clarkson’s farm in Oxfordshire has garnered widespread attention through his popular series, Clarkson’s Farm. Yet, despite the spotlight, Laurence remains refreshingly grounded and unconcerned about joining what he calls the “celeb end” of the community.
On his relationship with Clarkson, Laurence noted, “We used to see quite a lot of each other, though I haven’t seen him recently. I was very sorry to hear about his health struggles but relieved to know he is now in remission.”
READ MORE: Gloucestershire Schools Remain Closed Amid Record-Breaking Heatwave
READ MORE: Royal International Air Tattoo Unveils 2027 Theme Following 2026 Cancellation
Addressing Clarkson’s new local pub, Laurence shared, “I’m not particularly drawn to that kind of place. It’s not really my scene.” He humorously contrasted their distinct styles, saying, “On one side of the Cotswolds, you have Clarkson’s gritty, spit and sawdust pub, and on the other, my chic shop filled with delicate lacey silks.”
This playful rivalry, he suggests, highlights the diverse character that now defines the Cotswolds. Reflecting on his own experience settling in Siddington years ago, Laurence remarked, “We were definitely ahead of the curve. The influx of people isn’t just random; they want to start fresh lives and escape the city buzz.”
He applauds the emerging local businesses that embody this shift, fostering environments where working and living blend seamlessly. “Cutting out long commutes is transformative,” Laurence explained. “It really makes sense in today’s world.”
Alongside his commentary, Laurence is touring the Cotswolds as part of Drawn to Adorn, a traveling exhibition presented in partnership with Buckingham Fine Art. This collection features his bold, intricate works on paper inspired by everything from Baroque botanical prints to ’80s post-punk cinema. Each venue reimagines the display, offering audiences a unique experience of his art.
Expressing pride in his latest pieces, Laurence said, “I feel like I’m reaching my creative peak. It’s like painting meets rock ‘n’ roll, and I hope people come to see for themselves.”
Drawn to Adorn symbolizes Laurence’s commitment to decoration with unapologetic flair, perfectly mirroring the evolving and eclectic spirit of the Cotswolds he calls home.