Deborah Meaden: Why the Dragons' Den Star Still Calls Somerset Home

When people think of the West Country, they often picture rolling countryside, historic homes, coastal escapes and a slower pace of life. For entrepreneur and Dragons' Den star Deborah Meaden, Somerset has long been the perfect place to combine business success with quality of life.

Born in Taunton, Somerset, Deborah has become one of Britain's most recognised business leaders. Yet despite her national profile and years in the spotlight, she has remained deeply connected to the county she proudly calls home.

From Somerset Roots to Business Success

Before becoming one of the longest-serving Dragons on the BBC's Dragons' Den, Deborah built her career in the leisure and hospitality sector. Following a successful management buyout of her family's holiday business, she went on to create one of the UK's most successful holiday park companies before eventually selling the business and becoming a leading investor and entrepreneur.

Her business achievements have made her a household name, but it is her connection to Somerset that continues to define much of her lifestyle.

A Stunning Somerset Home

Deborah and her husband, Paul Farmer, live in a beautiful historic property near Langport in Somerset. The period home, set within extensive grounds, reflects her passion for conservation, sustainability and rural living. The property has undergone careful restoration using traditional materials, helping preserve its historic character while creating a comfortable family home.

Surrounded by countryside and animals, the property offers the privacy and tranquillity that many people dream of when relocating to the West Country.

Why Somerset?

For Deborah, Somerset offers something increasingly rare: space, nature and a strong sense of community.

In interviews, she has spoken about her love of spending time outdoors, walking through her gardens, enjoying fresh air and embracing a more sustainable way of living. She is also known for her commitment to environmental causes, ethical business practices and supporting British-made products.

It's easy to see why so many people are choosing to follow a similar path. Somerset combines beautiful countryside, excellent transport links, thriving market towns and access to both coast and countryside.

The Growing Appeal of West Country Living

Deborah Meaden is just one of many high-profile figures who have chosen to make the West Country their home.

From entrepreneurs and creatives to retirees and remote workers, more people are discovering the benefits of living in Somerset, Devon, Cornwall and Dorset. The region offers:

• Beautiful countryside and coastal scenery
• Historic villages and market towns
• A thriving food and drink scene
• Excellent walking, cycling and outdoor activities
• Strong local communities
• A healthier work-life balance

For many, the West Country represents an opportunity to escape the pressures of city life without sacrificing quality, culture or connectivity.

A Champion for Somerset

Deborah has long supported initiatives promoting Somerset as a place to live, work and invest. She has acted as an ambassador for the county and has frequently highlighted the area's strengths as both a business destination and an exceptional place to call home.

Her success story demonstrates that world-class business ambitions and West Country living can go hand in hand.

Discover the West Country Lifestyle

Whether you're searching for a countryside retreat, considering a permanent move or simply exploring the region's hidden gems, Somerset offers a unique blend of heritage, opportunity and natural beauty.

It's no wonder that one of Britain's most successful entrepreneurs continues to choose the West Country as home.

Thinking of Making the Move?

Explore our collection of West Country properties, holiday escapes, lifestyle guides and local stories to discover why so many people are falling in love with Somerset and the wider South West.