Inside Kensington Palace: Where Royals Live and Love
The Royal Rundown: Kensington Palace's Most Eligible Residents
Kensington Palace, a stately gem in the heart of London, has been a favorite haunt of the royal family for centuries. With its lush surroundings and central location, it's no wonder that many members of the Windsor clan call this palace home. But who exactly lives there, you ask? Let's take a peek at the current residents of Kensington Palace, shall we?
Apartment 1A: The Power Couple
Prince William and Kate Middleton, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, have been calling Apartment 1A home for several years now. This sprawling four-floor apartment is a far cry from your average London flat – think multiple reception rooms, staff bedrooms, and even a gym! The couple has undergone extensive refurbishment to make this space their own, incorporating homely touches like framed family photos and a collection of Penguin Clothbound Classic books. We've spotted some A-listers dining with the Waleses in Apartment 1A, including Barack and Michelle Obama. But don't get too comfortable – the royal couple is reportedly moving out soon to give their kids a more normal upbringing.
Wren House: The Duke's Den
Prince Edward, the Duke of Kent, has been living in Wren House with his wife Katharine Worsley until her recent passing at the age of 92. This charming property boasts five bedrooms and five reception rooms, not to mention stunning views of the palace's walled garden. In a heartwarming tribute, the Royal Family released a video last year to mark the Duke's 89th birthday, featuring three pipers from the Royal Scots Dragoon Guards performing for His Royal Highness.
Ivy Cottage: The Brooksbanks' Bungalow
Princess Eugenie and her husband Jack Brooksbank have made Ivy Cottage their home sweet home. This quaint three-bedroom cottage may be small, but it's perfectly picturesque, with roses blooming around the door and a manicured garden behind it. Before settling in at Kensington Palace, the couple lived at Frogmore Cottage on the Windsor Castle grounds. They now split their time between Ivy Cottage and Portugal, where Jack is head of sales for an exclusive golf club.
Apartment 10: The Kents' Kingdom
Prince Michael and his wife Marie Christine von Reibnitz have called Apartment 10 home for over four decades. This Georgian gem boasts five bedrooms and five reception rooms, with original work by William Kent still intact – including that stunning eagle console table. In a royal scandal, it was revealed in 2002 that the couple paid just £69 per week for this luxurious abode (talk about a bargain!). Since then, they've been coughing up £120,000 per year to stay in Apartment 10.
The Old Stables: The Duke and Duchess of Gloucester's Haven
Prince Richard, the Duke of Gloucester, and his wife Birgitte van Deurs have made The Old Stables their home since 2019. This charming property has undergone a £1million renovation and offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of palace life.
Nottingham Cottage: A Royal Hovel
Remember when Prince Harry and Meghan Markle lived in Nottingham Cottage? It was, shall we say, not exactly fit for royalty – two bedrooms, one bathroom, small reception rooms, and a kitchen. In fact, Harry reportedly called it "my hovel"! But despite its modest size, the cottage did offer access to all the palace's amenities. According to royal insider Ingrid Seward, Meghan was envious of Kate Middleton's Apartment 1A – talk about a case of royal rivalry!
Apartment 8 and 9: Charles and Diana's Haven
Before they said their final goodbyes, Prince Charles and Princess Diana called Apartments 8 and 9 home. This spacious apartment complex has a rich history, having been originally built for King George I's mistress the Duchess of Kendal. Although Charles and Diana's marriage was marked by its fair share of troubles, it's reported that the Princess grew fond of her residence at KP.
Princess Margaret's Palace
Before William and Kate took over Apartment 1A, Princess Margaret and her family called this very apartment home. The late Queen Elizabeth II gifted the apartment to Margaret and her husband Lord Snowdon following their wedding in 1960. After a £1.7million renovation, Margaret remained in the apartment even after her divorce from Antony Armstrong-Jones – it was, indeed, her primary residence until her passing in 2002.
There you have it – a behind-the-scenes look at Kensington Palace's most eligible residents. From power couples to royal scandals, this palace has seen its fair share of drama over the years. But one thing's for sure: these royals know how to live in style!
