British actor Martin Clunes has candidly revealed the significant financial pressures he faces while maintaining his sprawling 130-acre farm in Dorset, admitting he wishes he had "more work" to support the expensive operation.
From London Life to Countryside Living
In 2007, the animal-loving star and his wife, Philippa Braithwaite, made a dramatic lifestyle change, leaving behind their London existence to purchase the substantial £5 million property near Beaminster. The couple now shares their rural retreat with five dogs and six horses, having transformed the land into a haven for various animals over the years.
The farm has been home to Shetland ponies, Dexter cattle, sheep, and hens, creating what Clunes once described as his "favourite place in the world." However, this idyllic slice of countryside living comes with substantial financial demands that the actor finds increasingly challenging to meet.
The Costly Reality of Farm Maintenance
In a revealing interview with The Times, Clunes explained: "I wish I had more work because we're very expensive to run." The actor, who recently portrayed disgraced BBC newsreader Huw Edwards in the Channel 5 drama "Power: The Downfall of Huw Edwards," emphasized that without what the publication described as a "decent acting gig," his farm could soon be in jeopardy.
He elaborated on the financial realities, stating: "If I didn't employ people and enjoy food and drink so much, it might wash its face, but yes — if I don't work, within a year we'd have to sell up." This stark admission highlights the precarious balance between maintaining his cherished lifestyle and securing sufficient acting roles to fund it.
A Lifestyle Worth Every Penny
Despite the financial strain, Clunes has consistently expressed that the rural way of life is worth every penny. In a previous interview with the Express, he revealed he "can go for weeks without leaving" the farm, describing his deep connection to the natural rhythms of the countryside.
"It's my favourite place in the world," Clunes said. "I like being connected to the seasons in a real way — making hay, worrying about the grass, watching the leaves come and go, and caring for the animals." This profound appreciation for rural living underscores why he's willing to face the financial challenges to preserve it.
How Animals Led to the Farm Purchase
The family's decision to purchase the substantial property originated from surprisingly modest beginnings. Initially, they had simply wanted a field for a pony for their daughter, Emily Clunes, who has since become an equine veterinary nurse.
Martin explained to Dorset Magazine: "We always wanted a field for a pony for our daughter, Emily. And one never came up, and suddenly 130 acres came up, which wasn't quite what we were looking for. But if you don't do something, you'll have a grass problem."
He continued: "It will all go wild, so we started with loads of sheep." This practical approach to land management evolved into the substantial farming operation that now requires significant financial investment to maintain.
Colleague Insights into Clunes' Work Ethic
In related news, Inbetweeners actor James Buckley, who appeared alongside Clunes in "Mother's Pride," recently shared insights about working with the veteran actor. During an appearance on The Chris Evans Breakfast Show, Buckley described what he called an "awful" aspect of Clunes' on-set behavior.
"What's awful about him, as well — and I mean this lovingly — is that he's absolutely amazing on camera, and as soon as the cameras roll, he's ready to go," Buckley explained. "As soon as they cut, he's then mucking about and making everyone laugh, and I can't switch it off as well as you."
Host Chris Evans jokingly noted that Martin's habit must be "super annoying," to which Clunes himself later admitted that his tendency to joke around between takes can be "really annoying" for his fellow cast members. This playful professional demeanor contrasts with the serious financial realities he faces in maintaining his beloved farm.
