‘Homesick’ Michael Barrymore gives up on his Spanish retirement dream – and buys a modest £350k Devon bungalow

by

He publicly promised to put years of scandal behind him by moving to Spain and starting over.

I always thought it was sad how Michael Barrymore‘s plan to start fresh in Barcelona just didn’t work out. He seemed so hopeful about it, but things quickly went downhill once he actually moved there. It really didn’t turn out how anyone imagined.

The Daily Mail has learned that the entertainer, who previously planned to move away, has changed his mind and purchased a permanent home in Devon instead.

The 73-year-old former television star recently moved into a small house in a trendy town in the southern part of the county.

Since moving, Barrymore has been sharing his experiences in the southwest on TikTok. He’s posted videos of his new house, photos with people he’s met, and adventures with his whippet, Lara, at local beaches and stores.

As a lifestyle expert, I’m always drawn to spaces that feel relaxed and inviting. This bungalow really delivers on that! It’s designed with a charming beach house vibe, featuring beautiful wood details – think exposed beams that create a cozy, sloping ceiling over a bright, white kitchen countertop. It’s all about bringing that natural, breezy feeling indoors.

There’s a small deck accessible from both the main bedroom and the living room. The realtor says it’s perfect for entertaining guests or just unwinding.

Michael Barrymore was once a very popular entertainer in the UK, but his career effectively ended after the death of Stuart Lubbock at his home in Essex in 2001, following a party.

He was once one of the most popular figures on British television, and news reports suggest he made around £2 million each year working for ITV.

Detectives questioned him about the possible murder of Mr. Lubbock, but he has consistently maintained his innocence. He’s now become popular on TikTok, gaining a large following of young fans.

He made a big change last year by leaving the UK and announced to his 3.5 million followers that he was moving to a house with a garden near Barcelona, and he was eager for Lara to see his new home.

I was absolutely floored when I heard! After everything, he totally reversed course in March. Apparently, some activists in Spain started protesting tourism, and somehow he got pulled into it all. It was a complete shock, honestly, and changed everything!

In a raw video taken in his car before starting his long drive home to the UK, he admitted he was feeling incredibly homesick and emotionally overwhelmed, saying he’d never felt that way before.

I’m really struggling with insecurity and constantly focusing on the bad things. I hate feeling sorry for myself, and I’ve been stuck in this pattern for a long time. I’m exhausted, feel unprepared, and worry we’re not going to succeed.

‘And I felt so down about giving up on moving to Barcelona, I felt like I let so many people down.’ 

Barrymore based himself in West London before moving into his new home at the start of this month.

This cozy bungalow has two bedrooms and one bathroom, and it’s priced at £385,000. It’s located in a charming market town, not far from some of Britain’s most beautiful beaches.

In a video posted from his new house, Barrymore described the move as ‘traumatic’.

I’m feeling really mixed emotions right now. Lara’s been fantastic, she’s settled in well and loves living here, and I’m close to the beach. We also have plenty of space around the property.

‘This place needs a lot of doing up, I’m waiting for furniture to arrive.

Sometimes I feel disoriented and overwhelmed when I’m trying to get around. I’d forgotten how upsetting the experience could be.

‘I’m sure it won’t take long to get around exactly where I am but if you see me come and say hello.

Shortly after I moved in, the neighbors came over with a bottle of something as a welcoming gift. I didn’t want to upset them, so I didn’t mention that I don’t drink.

I’m a mix of emotions – scared, excited, and nervous. Becoming famous doesn’t change the fact that I still experience all kinds of feelings, just like everyone else.

This property offers a high degree of privacy thanks to its attractive stone walls. A gated driveway provides parking for one car, and a side path leads to the garden. The garden features a timber deck, making it perfect for entertaining or relaxing, and includes a large shed for extra storage.

Neighbors said Barrymore had already introduced himself when he moved in, describing him as a ‘lovely chap.’ They expressed some surprise at having a former TV personality living nearby, but added that he seems to be settling in well and is welcome in the community.

Barrymore had to lower the price of his London apartment by over £100,000 to finally sell it, as it was proving difficult to find a buyer.

He lowered the price of his flat in Acton, West London, from £600,000 to £475,000 earlier in the year.

This lovely two-bedroom apartment is for sale and comes with the convenience of no onward chain. Located within a secure gated development, it features a modern and spacious living area that flows into the kitchen. Both bedrooms have their own private bathrooms. Outside, you’ll find a private courtyard and deck, plus the benefit of underground parking.

Oh my gosh, you guys, it’s AMAZING! I mean, Acton Park is literally right there, and all my favorite places – the shops, cafes, restaurants in both Acton and Shepherds Bush – they’re all just steps away! It’s perfect, seriously perfect!

It comes with an underground parking space.

Originally constructed in the 1920s for the Ministry of Work and Pensions, the six-story building later housed the Department of Social Security.

It was later converted into 600 flats with Mr Barrymore’s at the top end of those on offer.

Similar apartments on the upper floors of the building, which have limited outdoor space, are available for purchase, ranging in price from £300,000 to £490,000.

Read More

2026-03-14 15:49