Discover the English Village Facing Collapse: Inside Judi Dench’s £8M Home Plagued by Mice and Structural Issues

Dame Judi Dench, an acclaimed actress with an illustrious career that spans eight decades, has called a charming farmhouse in Surrey her home for nearly 40 years. This property, valued at approximately £8 million, is located just outside London in the picturesque village of Outwood, which has a population of around 720 residents. The tranquil surroundings provide her an ideal escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.

Challenges Facing Judi Dench’s English Village Home

Despite the beauty of her home, Dench’s farmhouse has faced significant challenges. A historical property dating back to 1497, it has suffered from structural issues and pest problems. The actress revealed that in recent years, a mouse infestation has worsened, particularly since the COVID-19 lockdown. She stated, “The mice have moved in since lockdown and I’m battling the mice. They have taken over a bit.”

Property Features and Surroundings

The farmhouse sits on a vast estate with numerous notable features:

• 7,000 square feet of living space
• Sprawling gardens that Dench plans to rewild
• A separate cottage
• A barn, workshops, and a pond
• A swimming pool

Dench describes her gardens as “wonderful,” providing her solace amid the property’s challenges. However, she also expressed concern, saying, “My house is falling down a bit here and there.”

Judi Dench’s Journey to Homeownership

Dench acquired this stunning property alongside her late husband, Michael Williams, in a rather fortuitous manner. During an interview with Louis Theroux, she reminisced about how a commercial for Clover soft spread funded the purchase. She explained, “Suddenly, Michael and I got a Clover butter advertisement that bought this house. It was something like 38 years ago.”

The couple married in 1971 and remained together until Williams’ passing from lung cancer in 2001. Dench’s fond memories of their time in the home reflect her deep connection to the property and its surroundings.

Community Life in Outwood

Outwood contributes to the idyllic lifestyle that Dench enjoys. The village is characterized by:

• Three pubs
• Open meadows
• Vast farmlands

This serene English village complements Dench’s love for nature and provides a peaceful retreat. Despite the struggles she faces with the property, her affinity for the lush gardens and rural charm remains evident.