One year into their move to the idyllic English Cotswolds, Ellen DeGeneres and Portia de Rossi have fully embraced a quieter life, enjoying local pubs and the serene countryside. Their relocation, prompted by the 2024 presidential election results, has seen them settle into a charming village where privacy is respected, even as their growing animal family leads to surprising real estate adjustments.
Nearly a year after making a significant change and moving across the Atlantic, beloved television personality Ellen DeGeneres, 67, and actress Portia de Rossi, 52, have found their rhythm in the picturesque English Cotswolds. Far removed from the constant glare of the Hollywood spotlight, the couple is reportedly thriving in their new, tranquil environment.
Their journey to the UK began in November 2024, a decision that DeGeneres openly attributed to the outcome of the 2024 presidential election. When English broadcaster Richard Bacon inquired whether Donald Trump’s victory played a role in their relocation, Ellen famously replied, “Yes,” according to People. They arrived in England the day before the election, waking up to a flurry of “crying emojis” from friends, solidifying their decision to stay.
Embracing the Village Life: Privacy and Politeness
Life in a small Cotswolds village, near Wigginton, has offered Ellen and Portia the peace and privacy they sought. Locals familiar with the couple describe them as “chilled and very polite,” frequenting local pubs with their dogs, sometimes joined by friends or enjoying quiet moments alone. Despite Ellen’s global recognition, the community has embraced them with respectful discretion.
“Everyone knows who she is, but they don’t bother her,” a local pub source told People. This sentiment of respect and quiet acceptance is a recurring theme, with insiders confirming that while gossip is natural in a small village, no negative sentiments have been directed towards the couple. This stands in stark contrast to their highly public life in the United States.
A Sanctuary for Animals: Horses, Chickens, and a Puppy
A significant aspect of their new life revolves around their animals. Portia de Rossi’s passion for horses is central to their countryside existence, with her horses having made the journey with them to the UK. Ellen, a self-proclaimed California native who experienced snow for the first time after their move, has also embraced the rural setting, acquiring chickens and even hosting sheep for a brief period.
The couple recently welcomed another puppy into their home on October 10, 2025, further solidifying their commitment to creating a vibrant animal-filled haven. Ellen often shares glimpses of their idyllic life with fans, including a charming clip set to Taylor Swift’s “August,” showing Portia joyfully riding her horse through the English countryside and into the village.
The DeGeneres Real Estate Logic: More Space for Beloved Companions
Their first Cotswolds estate, known as Kites Bridge Farm, was purchased for approximately $20 million in Spring 2024. After a “whirlwind renovation” that blended 18th-century charm with modern polish, the couple made a swift and surprising decision to list the property for around $30 million, less than a year after moving in, as reported by Hello Magazine.
This decision, while seemingly quick, was driven by a very practical and animal-centric need. “When we decided to live here full time, we knew that Portia couldn’t live without her horses,” Ellen told the Wall Street Journal. “We needed a home that had a horse facility and pastures for them.” They have since moved into a larger, more modern home in the area better suited to accommodate Portia’s four-legged family members, a move affectionately termed “classic DeGeneres real estate logic” by fans and media.
Celebrity Neighbors and a Simpler Way of Life
Adding another layer to their relocation, reports indicate that DeGeneres and de Rossi now live near the Sussexes, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, who also reside in the UK. This proximity to other high-profile individuals seeking a more private life underscores the appeal of the English countryside as a retreat for celebrities.
Overall, Ellen DeGeneres and Portia de Rossi are clearly enjoying a “simpler way of life.” The beautiful, serene landscape of the Cotswolds has provided them with the calm and privacy they desired, allowing them to focus on their passions and their growing animal family away from the relentless demands of the public eye. It’s a testament to finding peace and embracing change, even if it involves a few unexpected real estate detours.
