Explore the Troubled English Village: Inside Judi Dench’s £8M Home with Mice Infestation and Structural Challenges

Dame Judi Dench, a celebrated actress known for her extensive career, has resided in a beautiful farmhouse in Surrey for nearly four decades. This remarkable property is valued at around £8 million and is nestled in the tranquil village of Outwood, located just outside London. Outwood is home to about 720 residents, making it a peaceful retreat from urban life.

Challenges Facing Judi Dench’s £8M Home

Despite its charm, Dench’s farmhouse encounters several significant issues. Built in 1497, the historic property faces ongoing structural challenges. Recently, Dench has dealt with a worsening mouse infestation. She noted that since the COVID-19 lockdown, the mice have become a persistent problem, stating, “I’m battling the mice. They have taken over a bit.”

Features of the Property

The farmhouse boasts impressive features, which include:

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

Dench describes her gardens as “wonderful,” serving as a source of solace amid the property’s challenges. Nevertheless, she admits, “My house is falling down a bit here and there.”

Dench’s Journey to Homeownership

Dench acquired the stunning farmhouse with her late husband, Michael Williams, through an unexpected turn of events. She shared during an interview that a commercial for Clover soft spread financed their home purchase. Reflecting on her past, she recalled, “It was something like 38 years ago.” The couple married in 1971 and enjoyed their life together until Williams passed away in 2001.

Community Life in Outwood

Outwood enhances Dench’s lifestyle with its charming community characteristics:

• Three pubs
• Open meadows
• Extensive farmlands

This picturesque village complements Dench’s love for nature, providing a serene escape. Despite the struggles with her property, her affinity for the lush gardens and the rural environment remains strong.