Inside Foxfield, the Landmark Cardiff Estate Seen in Disney+ Series Rivals

From a Welsh Estate to a Television Landmark

Foxfield’s recent appearance in Rivals has introduced the property to audiences around the world. Standing in for Bella Vista, the home of Danny Dyer’s character Freddie Jones, the estate’s grand interiors, sweeping driveway and expansive grounds made it a natural choice for the production. Yet beyond the television cameras, Foxfield remains a deeply personal home shaped by the family who designed and built it. Its role on screen may have added to its profile, but the property’s character was established long before it became a filming location.

A Staircase at the Heart of the Home

The tour begins in the dramatic entrance hall, where a handcrafted American white oak staircase rises through the centre of the house. Inspired by the shape of a rugby ball as a tribute to the owner’s passion for the sport, the bespoke design gives the home its distinct vibe right away. Flooded with natural light from above, the staircase serves as an architectural statement and connects all three floors. “It’s completely bespoke” says Jemma. “And it has the most spectacular view when you’re looking down as well.”

Traditional Character with Modern Functionality

While Foxfield was completed shortly before 2000, its detailing evokes the atmosphere of a classic country estate. The kitchen, designed by Smallbone and fitted with Miele appliances, matches traditional craftsmanship with everyday family living. Granite worktops, decorative ceiling details, shutters, and elegant joinery create a classic feel, while the layout encourages everyday use. “The architect’s done such a great job of all of the details” Jemma notes. “It kind of gives off that stately home feel, even though it’s quite a modern property actually.”

Designed Around Family Life

More than any individual room, it is the way the spaces connect that defines Foxfield. The kitchen opens directly into family living areas, and the doors throughout the ground floor lead onto terraces and gardens beyond. Jemma recalls how the owners regularly hosted four generations under one roof, describing Sundays when the house would be filled with family. “Although it’s such a large property” she says, “it really is a family home.”

Rooms Made for Celebration

The formal drawing room and dining room have played host to countless family occasions over the years. Speaking about life at Foxfield, owner’s daughter Debs describes the spaces as the setting for Christmas gatherings, dinner parties, music-filled evenings, and celebrations both large and small. “This is the heart of our home” she says. “Over the years we’ve had so many parties here.” In the dining room, a table seating sixteen serves as the room’s defining feature, bringing family and friends together for special occasions.

A Principal Suite with Panoramic Views

Occupying a prominent position on the first floor, the principal suite feels like a private sanctuary within the home. Dual dressing rooms, including one inspired by the Ralph Lauren flagship on Bond Street, complement a spacious bedroom overlooking the grounds. From the veranda, views extend across the entrance lakes and towards the Bristol Channel beyond. The accompanying bathroom, with its freestanding bath, oversized shower, and elegant finishes, delivers the atmosphere of a luxury hotel also with views to the landscape outside.

Seven Bedrooms and Spaces to Grow

The first floor accommodates seven en-suite bedrooms, each with its own distinct personality. Beautifully designed interiors, built-in storage, and bespoke details make the rooms feel unique while still fitting together. A nursery for visiting grandchildren sits alongside bedrooms with curved dressing areas and private staircases leading to the upper-level retreats. Every area of the home presents the changing demands of a family over several generations.

A Floor Dedicated to Leisure

At the top of the house, a collection of flexible spaces demonstrates the estate’s versatility. A games room, bar area, yoga studio, and additional lounges create an entire level dedicated to recreation and relaxation. Exposed beams and abundant natural light give the floor a relaxed vibe, and lift access ensures every level remains easily connected. “Imagine being a child growing up here” Jemma reflects, describing a space equally suited to entertaining guests or spending weekends with family.

The Gardens and Grounds of Foxfield

Outside, Foxfield’s grounds are every bit as impressive as the home itself. Orchards, woodland, lakes, formal gardens, and expansive lawns unfold across 24 acres of private countryside. For Debs, however, the significance of the landscape lies in the memories it holds. “It’s beautifully designed” she says, “and somewhere that I’ve got lost in since a little girl to now watching my daughter go and get lost in the woods and the meadow.” Whether gathering around the fire pit beside the kitchen, enjoying quiet mornings in the Ring of Roses Garden, or hosting large celebrations on the events lawn, the grounds offer spaces for every occasion.

A World Away from the City

Despite being just minutes from Cardiff, Foxfield feels entirely secluded. Surrounded by mature woodland and approached through private gates, the estate remains largely hidden from view. “You just don’t know it’s here” says Debs. “That’s been the beauty of it.” The lakes, originally incorporated to manage natural spring water flowing from the nearby hillside, further enhance the estate’s distinctive landscape and peaceful setting.

A Hidden Highlight Beneath the Home

The tour concludes in one of the home’s most memorable spaces: a substantial wine cellar hidden beneath the house. Complete with tasting area and room for entertaining, it is a natural extension of the property’s entertaining spaces. Nearby, a commercial-scale carport with valet facilities, electric charging points, gym, and shower rooms adds another layer of convenience to a residence already rich in amenities.

An Extraordinary Country Estate

Foxfield is widely regarded as the most expensive home on the market in South Wales. Yet its appeal extends beyond its size, luxury, or even its television fame. For all its impressive architecture, Foxfield remains first and foremost a family home. As Jemma observes throughout the tour, every detail was created with family in mind. Its story is told not only through its architecture, but through the generations who have lived, gathered, and celebrated here.

Listing Details

Listed with Fine & Country

Foxfield is currently offered for sale at £8 million through Fine & Country Cardiff & Newport.

Agent: Fine & Country Cardiff & Newport
Telephone: +44 29 2169 0690
Listing: https://www.fineandcountry.co.uk/cardiff-and-newport-estate-agents/property-sale/7-bedroom-detached-house-for-sale-in-cf14-lisvane-rudry-road/4581314

Watch the full tour on The Luxury Home Show to explore Foxfield in greater detail here.