Michael Owen lives in a magnificent Grade II listed manor house known as Lower Soughton Hall, located in Northop, near Mold in North Wales. Purchased in 2001 for approximately £1.6 million and now valued at over £4 million, the estate spans 42 acres of lush countryside and serves as the primary residence for the former Ballon d’Or winner and his family. The property is famous for its extensive equestrian facilities, high-end “leisure centre” style amenities, and its blend of historic Tudor-style architecture with modern luxury.
Lower Soughton Hall Location
Lower Soughton Hall is situated in the picturesque village of Northop, within the county of Flintshire, North Wales. Its location offers a perfect balance of rural privacy and accessibility, being just a short drive from the English border and the city of Chester.
The estate is tucked away at the end of a long, gated driveway to ensure maximum privacy for the Owen family. It is strategically positioned near the A55, providing easy transport links while remaining isolated within its own 42-acre private parkland.
The Estate’s Market Value
As of 2026, the estimated value of Lower Soughton Hall is roughly £4 million, a significant appreciation from its 2001 purchase price. This valuation accounts for the extensive renovations Owen performed, including the addition of a leisure wing and state-of-the-art equestrian facilities.
The property’s value is bolstered by its Grade II listed status, which protects its historic architectural features while ensuring it remains a prestigious asset. Its massive acreage and secondary residential units, like the coach house and cottages, further contribute to its high market standing.
Architectural Style and History
The main residence is a Tudor-style manor, with significant portions of the structure dating back to a major rebuilding project between 1856 and 1866. It features asymmetrical elevations, traditional brickwork, and classic leaded windows that define the mid-Victorian take on the Tudor aesthetic.
Even the gardens are historically significant, having been laid out in 1937 by the renowned landscape architect Dame Sylvia Crowe. The hall is protected by CADW, the Welsh historic environment service, ensuring that the legacy of its design remains intact for future generations.
Interior Design and Decor
The interior of the home features a “members’ club” aesthetic, characterized by dark wood paneling, ornate fireplaces, and polished oak flooring. The main entrance opens into a grand reception room that sets a formal yet welcoming tone for the rest of the house.
Despite the traditional bones of the building, the decor incorporates modern touches like leather sofas and open-plan living spaces. High ceilings and a sweeping staircase provide a sense of scale, while large windows throughout the ground floor offer views of the surrounding manicured lawns.
The Tropical Indoor Pool
One of the most talked-about features is the indoor “leisure centre,” which includes a large heated swimming pool designed with a tropical theme. This area features a fake waterfall, stone-style surrounds, and even artificial trees to create an exotic atmosphere.
Adjacent to the pool, the family enjoys a large Jacuzzi and a dedicated tanning area equipped with a sunbed. This wing of the house was specifically designed to provide a resort-like experience, allowing the family to relax regardless of the Welsh weather.
Private Cinema and Games Room
The house includes a state-of-the-art cinema room featuring plush velvet armchairs and a large projection screen for family movie nights. Interestingly, Owen has famously joked in interviews that he has only ever watched a handful of films in his life, despite owning such a high-end theater.
The games room serves as a personal museum, housing a snooker table and a vast collection of football memorabilia. This space holds Owen’s most prized possessions, including signed match balls, his collection of England shirts, and the 2001 Ballon d’Or trophy.
Modern Kitchen and Dining
The heart of the home is a spacious, modern kitchen that features a central island and high-end integrated appliances. It is designed to accommodate a large family, with two separate dining tables that can seat up to 11 people simultaneously.
The kitchen walls are adorned with unique artwork, including a notable 3D body cast of a woman’s torso. This room blends the home’s wood-heavy theme with contemporary cabinetry and sleek surfaces, making it both functional and stylish.
Equestrian Facilities and Stables
Given the family’s passion for horse racing and dressage, the estate features world-class stables capable of housing at least 12 horses. These facilities were essential for Gemma Owen’s development as an international dressage rider for Great Britain.
The stables are complemented by several fenced paddocks and training rings located throughout the 42-acre grounds. This setup allows the horses to be trained on-site, mirroring the professional standards found at Owen’s nearby Manor House Stables.
The Grounds and Outdoor Fun
Beyond the buildings, the estate is a playground for both adults and children, featuring a private putting green for Michael to practice his golf. The lawns also host a mini-football pitch, complete with professional-grade goals, where the family can enjoy the sport that made Michael a star.
For younger visitors and the Owen children’s earlier years, the grounds include a substantial wooden play area. The 42 acres are a mix of manicured gardens, yew tree avenues, and open pastureland that provide total seclusion.
Additional Residential Buildings
The estate is not just one house; it includes two additional cottages, two flats, and a converted coach house. These spaces provide ample accommodation for staff, extended family, or guests visiting the Northop area.
These secondary buildings are maintained to the same high standard as the main hall, ensuring a cohesive look across the entire property. They offer flexibility for the estate, potentially serving as home offices or private studios.
Security and Privacy Measures
To protect the high-profile family, the mansion is equipped with a sophisticated 25-camera security system that monitors the entire perimeter. The long entrance track is blocked by electronic gates to prevent unauthorized access and prying eyes.
Privacy is a top priority, as the hall is situated at the end of a narrow lane that offers no turning circle for uninvited vehicles. This “dead-end” design, combined with the dense treeline, makes Lower Soughton Hall one of the most private celebrity residences in Wales.
Practical Information
Access: The property is a private residence and is not open to the public for tours or visits.
Location: Northop, Flintshire, Wales (near the A55 expressway).
Ownership: Michael and Louise Owen have owned the property since October 2001.
Viewing: Fans can catch glimpses of the interior via archived episodes of ITV’s Through the Keyhole.
FAQs
Where does Michael Owen live?
Michael Owen lives in Lower Soughton Hall, a Grade II listed manor house located in Northop, Flintshire, North Wales. He has resided there with his wife Louise and their four children since 2001.
How much is Michael Owen’s house worth?
The property is currently estimated to be worth approximately £4 million. This is a significant increase from the £1.6 million he reportedly paid for it over two decades ago.
How many acres is Michael Owen’s estate?
The estate covers roughly 42 acres of land. This includes the main house, stables, paddocks, and various leisure facilities like a mini-golf green.
Can you visit Michael Owen’s house?
No, Lower Soughton Hall is a private family home and is not open to the public. However, his business, Manor House Stables in Malpas, occasionally offers organized tours for racing enthusiasts.
Does Michael Owen have a football pitch at his house?
Yes, the grounds include a small, private football pitch with goals. This is located near the children’s play area and the putting green.
Does the house have a swimming pool?
Yes, the mansion features a large indoor heated swimming pool with a tropical theme, waterfall, and an adjacent Jacuzzi.
Where does Gemma Owen keep her horses?
Gemma Owen keeps her dressage horses in the high-specification stables located on the Lower Soughton Hall estate. The property is designed to accommodate at least 12 horses.
What is the history of Lower Soughton Hall?
The hall is a Grade II listed building that was largely rebuilt in the mid-19th century in a Tudor style. Its gardens were designed by famous landscape architect Dame Sylvia Crowe in the 1930s.
Is Manor House Stables part of his home?
No, Manor House Stables is a separate professional training facility located in Malpas, Cheshire. While it is owned by Michael Owen, it is a business location distinct from his residence at Lower Soughton Hall.
How many bedrooms does the house have?
While the exact number of bedrooms is kept private for security reasons, the house is a massive manor that includes several wings, including a staff wing known as “Brookside.”
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