Ellen DeGeneres Faces Setback Over Roman Finds at Cotswolds Estate
Key Points
ELLEN DeGeneres and Portia de Rossi have hit a snag in their plans to build new horse stables at their sprawling Cotswolds estate.
The couple’s application to West Oxfordshire District Council has raised concerns after archaeologists flagged the site as potentially containing Roman remains.
Historic maps and aerial photos suggest the land has never been developed before, meaning any construction could disturb ancient artefacts.
If permission is granted, work cannot begin without an archaeologist on site to monitor any discoveries.
Despite this, Ellen and Portia have also applied to build an all-weather riding arena to help their horses exercise during wet months.
Their rep revealed the current facilities are temporary and flood-prone, limiting the horses’ winter exercise options.
The couple included photos of the November 2024 River Windrush flood to support their case and urged the council to grant approval without delay.
Ellen and Portia bought the 43-acre Kitesbridge Farm in 2024, initially planning to sell but now committed to staying long term.
They moved to the UK after Donald Trump’s re-election in 2025 but maintain ties to California, where they own a $27.4 million mansion.
For now, their Cotswolds equestrian ambitions remain on hold as the council weighs up the historic significance of the land.
