By C. Perera, JadeTimes News
The Cotswolds, a countryside idyll in Oxfordshire, is experiencing a surge in popularity. This rural enclave, traditionally known for its rolling hills and picturesque villages, has become a magnet for the super rich, with books and TV dramas now depicting its affluent society.
British author Plum Sykes, who previously satirized Manhattan's elite in her novels Bergdorf Blondes and Debutante Divorcee, has turned her attention to the glamorous, gossipy world of the Cotswolds in her latest book, Wives Like Us. This satirical comedy of manners explores the lives of wealthy women in the area, which has recently attracted cultural attention. Notable figures like Taylor Swift are reportedly staying there, and new adaptations of literary works are set in the region.
The Cotswolds, designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, covers nearly 800 square miles and attracts around 25 million visitors annually. Its proximity to London has made it a favored weekend retreat for the affluent, including celebrities like Kate Moss and Elizabeth Hurley. However, the area has transformed from a bucolic retreat to a playground for the super rich, with increasing opulence and extravagant lifestyles.
Sykes, who grew up in Kent and worked in New York before returning to the UK, has observed this change firsthand. She settled in the Cotswolds and noticed an influx of wealth and glamour, epitomized by events like sports days with helicopters and women dressed for balls while horse riding. This transformation inspired her new book.
Historically, the Cotswolds attracted artists and writers, and its appeal endures. Today, it continues to draw notable figures, with high end establishments like Soho Farmhouse and Estelle Manor catering to the wealthy. The influx of affluent newcomers has driven up property demand and prices, reshaping the region to accommodate their luxurious lifestyles.
The area's cultural significance extends back centuries, with figures like William Morris and Henry Ford among its admirers. More recently, it has seen a surge of interest from wealthy Americans, further solidifying its status as an idealized version of the English countryside.
Despite its charm, the Cotswolds faces challenges. Rising property prices have displaced locals, and the influx of tourists has caused tensions. The juxtaposition of luxury and deprivation is stark, with BBC comedy This Country highlighting the area's poverty and boredom, contrasting sharply with the glamorous image projected by its affluent visitors.
Plum Sykes's sister, Alice Sykes, also resides in the Cotswolds and appreciates its sense of community and beauty. She acknowledges the region's blend of ordinary life with extraordinary people and experiences. Since the publication of Wives Like Us, locals have speculated about the real life inspirations for its characters, but generally, they are enjoying the book.
Ultimately, for those unable to afford a Cotswolds retreat, Sykes's novel offers a vicarious escape into this fascinating, evolving enclave.