As Mel C from the iconic girl group, the Spice Girls, she has lived much of her life in the spotlight. But, despite her global fame, the singer has always been a private individual.
And in recent years, Melanie Chisholm has found solace in the peaceful countryside of Monmouthshire in Wales, on the border with England.
Melanie hasn’t given much away about her life in Monmouthshire’s Wye Valley, where she reportedly paid £1m for her beautiful home in 2004. The sprawling property had belonged to the same family for almost 100 years before it was put on the market.
The area of Monmouthshire, which Melanie described as “wild and unspoilt”, provides a perfect setting for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
It is nestled between the Brecon Beacons and the border countryside of England and the area is known for its rolling hills, serene landscapes, and charming villages.
It’s a world away from the glitzy London scene where Mel C spent much of her time during her Spice Girls heyday.
The homes in Monmouthshire are as diverse as the landscape itself, ranging from charming stone cottages to sprawling country estates.
Properties in the area are highly sought after, with house prices reflecting the desirability of the location.
While exact details about Mel C’s residence remain private, it’s not uncommon for homes in Monmouthshire to fetch anywhere from £500,000 to well over £1 million, especially for those with substantial land or historical significance. It is among the most expensive places to buy a home in all of Wales.
Monmouthshire isn’t just known for its natural beauty but it is famous for its sense of history and culture. The county is dotted with ancient castles, quaint market towns, and cozy pubs, offering a glimpse into traditional Welsh life.
Melanie bought the home with her then-partner, property developer Thomas Starr. The couple were together for ten years before they parted ways in 2012.
We have friends in the village and we go to the local pub – we were so lucky to find our house and we have been here for three years,” Wales Online reported in 2007.
“The house is very old. It is made of Welsh stone and is very beautiful and we are still learning about it. It had been lived in by a family for a long time, they obviously cared about it and there are some great old trees in the garden. It’s quite secluded, although it is near the village.
The six-bedroom period country house has 1.4 acres of enclosed land and gardens surrounding it, including lush trees and a gently babbling brook. The home features a wealth of character, with lovely herringbone floors, open fireplaces and a whopping four reception rooms.
House prices in Monmouthshire can vary significantly depending on the type of property, location, and size. However as of 2024, detached houses, which are often the most expensive, particularly in rural or scenic areas typically range from £400,000 to over £1 million, especially for larger homes with substantial land or unique historical features.
Semi-detached houses are generally more affordable, with prices ranging from around £250,000 to £450,000, depending on the location and size.
Additionally, prices for terraced homes can vary, but they tend to be between £200,000 and £350,000.
Although Melanie has kept her life there private, she spoke out to support a local recycling campaign, saying: “Recycling is so important for the future of our planet, and I think we should all do our bit for the environment. It feels good to know that a little effort goes a long way. All we have to do in Monmouthshire is pop our cans, paper, glass and textiles into the black boxes provided.”
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