Earl Spencer recently took to social media to share a captivating view of his family home, Althorp House. The photo he shared showcased a weather vane on the roof, against the backdrop of a cloudless bright blue sky. His caption, “First light on Althorp’s roof this morning,” invited his followers to admire the beauty of his historic estate.
Earl Spencer’s connection to Althorp House goes back to his childhood, as he moved to the estate at the age of 11. His sister, the late Princess Diana, was just 14 at that time, along with their older sisters Sarah and Jane. The house holds significant sentimental value for the family, especially since Princess Diana was laid to rest in the grounds of Althorp House following her tragic death in 1997.
In his role as the custodian of the Spencer family Estates, Earl Spencer has been dedicated to preserving the heritage of Althorp House. The estate, a Grade I listed stately home located between the villages of Great Brington and Harlestone, has been in the Spencer family for over 500 years. The sprawling property spans 13,000 acres, with 550 acres dedicated to the house and gardens.
Over the years, Earl Spencer and his wife Karen have undertaken extensive restoration efforts to bring back the former glory of Althorp House. Along the way, they have made enlightening historical discoveries, shedding light on the rich heritage of the property. Their commitment to sharing regular updates on their restoration journey through Instagram highlights their passion for preserving the legacy of Althorp House.
Althorp House boasts several unique features, including a Grecian-style temple dedicated to Princess Diana. While the temple is open to the public, Princess Diana’s resting place remains a private area accessible only by boat. The estate’s scenic Oval Lake, dotted with goslings and surrounded by lush greenery, adds to the tranquil ambiance of the property.
Despite Princess Diana’s desire to return to Althorp House after her divorce, security concerns made it impossible for her to fulfill this dream. Earl Spencer recounted how Diana envisioned living a normal life in a modest house on the estate, but logistical obstacles prevented this from becoming a reality. The decision to prioritize her safety over her sentimental attachment to the property underscored the complexities of maintaining a historic estate amid evolving security considerations.
Earl Spencer’s unwavering dedication to preserving the heritage of Althorp House showcases his deep-rooted commitment to honoring the legacy of his family. Through his restoration efforts and historical discoveries, he continues to uphold the rich cultural significance of the estate for future generations to appreciate.
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