When people hear the name Brian May, they immediately think of powerful guitar solos and legendary stadium concerts. As the lead guitarist of Queen, he helped create some of the most famous songs in rock history. But outside the world of music, Brian May has built another powerful legacy — one dedicated to saving animals and protecting wildlife in the British countryside.
A Quiet Life in Surrey
Brian May lives in Windlesham, Surrey, a peaceful village about an hour from London. His countryside home offers privacy and calm, far away from the noise of world tours and flashing lights. He shares this home with his wife, Anita Dobson, who became famous for her role in the popular British TV show EastEnders in the 1980s.
Their house is not just a family home. It also reflects May’s creative and curious personality. Inside, you can find collections of old stereographs, vintage toys, and music memorabilia. There is even a special workshop where experts carefully maintain his famous handmade guitar, the “Red Special,” which he built with his father when he was young.
In 2020, their peaceful countryside life was suddenly threatened when a wildfire broke out near their home. The fire spread across nearby heathland and forced May to temporarily evacuate. Thankfully, the house was saved. The experience reminded him how fragile nature can be — and why protecting it matters so much.
The Save Me Trust
In 2010, Brian May co-founded the Save Me Trust with wildlife conservationist Anne Brummer. The charity was created to defend wild animals and protect their natural habitats in the United Kingdom.
At first, the organization focused on stopping fox hunting and protecting badgers. Over time, its mission expanded to include broader wildlife protection, conservation campaigns, and public awareness efforts. The goal is simple: to give a voice to animals that cannot defend themselves.
The charity works closely with experts, scientists, and volunteers to make sure that animals receive proper care and that policies are based on facts and compassion.
Helping Injured Wildlife
Brian May’s property also supports the work of Harper Asprey Wildlife Rescue, a rescue center that cares for injured and orphaned wild animals. Thousands of animals pass through their care every year — from birds and foxes to badgers and hedgehogs.
The quiet countryside setting makes it a safe place for animals to recover. After receiving treatment, many are slowly reintroduced into the wild once they are strong enough to survive on their own.
Saving Britain’s Hedgehogs
One of the most famous campaigns connected to May’s work focuses on hedgehogs. These small, gentle animals were once very common in Britain. In the 1950s, there were around 30 million hedgehogs in the UK. Today, fewer than one million remain. Habitat loss, busy roads, pesticides, and modern garden fencing have made survival difficult for them.
To raise awareness, May supported the “Amazing Grace” campaign, named after a rescued hedgehog called Grace. To bring more attention to the cause, he even recorded a special version of the song “Amazing Grace” with singer Kerry Ellis. The song helped spread the message that small changes in our gardens — like leaving gaps in fences and avoiding harmful chemicals — can help protect wildlife.
A Different Kind of Legacy
Brian May proves that being a rock legend and being a conservationist can go hand in hand. While he once filled stadiums with the sound of electric guitar, he now spends much of his time speaking up for animals and nature.
His life shows that fame can be used for something meaningful. Through his charity work and dedication, he has inspired many people to care more about wildlife and to take simple actions that make a difference.
In the end, Brian May is not just a music icon. He is also a passionate protector of the natural world — a man who uses his voice not only to sing, but to save.