express gazette logo
The Express Gazette
Friday, September 25, 2026

Explorer Sir Ranulph Fiennes Reportedly Kept in Secluded Care Home

The acclaimed adventurer's isolated living situation in Wales has been described as 'at the mercy of his controlling wife,' according to the care home owner.

US Politics • 2 hours ago
Explorer Sir Ranulph Fiennes Reportedly Kept in Secluded Care Home

Sir Ranulph Fiennes, the 82-year-old renowned explorer, has reportedly been living in a secluded care home in rural Wales, his identity concealed to prevent his acquaintances from finding him. The owner of the care facility described Fiennes' situation as dire, stating that the explorer was "at the mercy of his controlling wife," Louise Millington-Cotes.

According to reports, Fiennes has been living in a state of isolation, with his true identity hidden from visitors. The care home owner expressed dismay at the situation, likening it to mistreatment, saying, "I wouldn't treat an animal like that."

Fiennes, known for his extensive expeditions including being the first person to reach both the North and South Poles, has reportedly been in poor health. His wife, Millington-Cotes, who is 23 years his junior, holds lasting power of attorney over his property, financial affairs, and health and welfare decisions.

This situation echoes a previous incident in 2025 when Sir Ranulph was located at a care home in Fulham. At that time, Lady Fiennes reportedly faced criticism for allowing visitors only if they signed non-disclosure agreements, further isolating the explorer.

His wife Louise Millington-Cotes who at 59, is 23 years younger than him, has lasting power of attorney over her husband’s property and financial affairs as well as his health and welfare

Friends of Sir Ranulph have expressed deep concern over his current whereabouts and well-being, noting that his location has once again become unknown to them. The explorer is said to miss most his childhood sweetheart and late wife of 34 years, Virginia ‘Ginny’ Fiennes, who passed away in 2004.

Perhaps most alarming for all Sir Ranulph’s desperately worried friends, his whereabouts are, once again, unknown


Sources