Ex-Top Gear host Richard Hammond’s ‘brave’ new Welsh life wild swimming and running
Richard Hammond says he is building a new life in Wales, taking up running and open-water swimming while embracing local food festivals. The former Top Gear presenter describes feeling happier and braver since moving to a Georgian mansion near Abergavenny, with the Brecon Beacons close by.
Hammond, 56, bought the £2m property in November 2025 after separating from his wife, Mindy, following 23 years together. His renovation plans include garages, a padel court and guest accommodation, but work has paused while rare bats are protected. He has cut his 5km time to under 25 minutes and plans to enter a triathlon; meanwhile, he says his priorities have shifted from classic-car events towards life in his new community.
In short
- Richard Hammond says he is happier and braver in Wales.
- He has taken up running and open-water swimming.
- Rare bats have paused renovation work at his £2m home.
Explained simply
Richard Hammond is a television presenter best known for co-hosting Top Gear, the BBC motoring programme, and later presenting The Grand Tour. He has spent much of his public career talking about cars and driving, while also taking part in other television projects.
Abergavenny is a town in south-east Wales, near the Brecon Beacons, a mountainous area popular with walkers and outdoor activities. Hammond’s move there marks a change in his personal life after separating from his wife, Mindy, following 23 years together.
His plans combine renovating a large home with getting involved in local life and taking up outdoor exercise. The property work has to account for rare bats, which are legally protected in the UK.