Inside the row over Pippa Middleton’s countryside home: Why are locals upset with Kate Middleton’s sister

Pippa Middleton’s countryside life is currently in focus, but this time it is not about lifestyle or family. A decision taken at her Berkshire home has led to a disagreement with locals, and the issue is still going on.

What is the situation

Pippa Middleton and her husband James Matthews moved to a large home called Barton Court in 2021. The property has 32 rooms and is spread across 145 acres.

Earlier, the house belonged to Sir Terence Conran, who allowed people to use a nearby path.

Why locals are upset

After shifting, the couple closed this path and marked it as private property. This stopped locals from using a route they had been using for a long time.

As reported by the Daily Mail, around 35 residents, along with the Ramblers Association, asked the council to reopen the path.

The council supported the locals, but the couple has objected. So the matter is still not resolved.

What the Ramblers Association says

The group says such paths are important for people’s health and access to nature.

“This isn't just unfair, it's unhealthy. And it's deepening existing health and wellbeing equalities.”

Tom Platt from the Ramblers Association also said: “People across Britain overwhelmingly believe that access to nature should be a basic right, yet for millions it remains out of reach due to a shameful web of barriers. Local paths are lifelines. They connect people with green space, fresh air, and better mental and physical health.”

Another issue at the same property

The couple also wants to add a greenhouse, stables, and a garden room.

But experts say the work could affect historical remains on the land. The report says it “has the potential to impact on hitherto unidentified archaeology dating from the prehistoric, medieval and post-medieval periods” and it “may be considered harmful to a non-designated heritage asset.”

A final decision is still pending.

Their other venture

They also run Bucklebury Farm, which includes a deer park, play areas, café, and more.

One review says: “Can't fault Bucklebury Farm. Whole experience was excellent from start to finish. Our kids had the best day (six and three). We loved the playgrounds, farm animals, safari tractor ride was great and just the right amount of time.

“Cafe was very good, quality ingredients, not overpriced. Softplay wasn't too busy because of the booking system. Children loved the slides and bouncy pillows. Staff were welcoming and friendly from egg hunts to showing the children chicks, or photos with Larry the sheep. We'll be back soon. Thank you for the loveliest autumn day.”

Current status

The path dispute and the expansion plans are both still under discussion. For now, the issue remains unresolved.



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