Decorating with green has had somewhat of a resurgence this year, transitioning from light, gentle greens to the richest, most opulent greens that fill our homes with drama and sophistication.

While moody dark greens have been cropping up in many rooms, from kitchen cabinets to home offices, we'd argue that small rooms are where they come alive. Used to drench small spaces, dark green paints create cozy, cocooned spaces perfectly suited to the fall and winter months.

If you're as won over by this color trend as we are, you may be wondering where to start with finding the perfect dark green paint. Thankfully, Benjamin Moore has suggested four dark green paints that work perfectly in small rooms. We spoke to Arianna Barone, Color Marketing Manager at Benjamin Moore who talks through each of them below.

Named one of 2025's biggest color trends, dark green is predicted to endure into the new year, and for good reason. This shade may be trending, but it's every ounce timeless and feels reminiscent of centuries gone by.

Boreal Forest AF-480

If you're looking for a dark green paint color that isn't too saturated, Boreal Forest AF-480 makes a great choice. Dark and moody, this forest green has a subtle, muted quality which ensures spaces feel fairly neutral and not too stimulating.

'Lush yet livable, this verdant shade is the quintessential forest green,' explains Arianna. 'It works particularly well in dining rooms and breakfast nooks to create a cozy but inviting space.'

This shade would work wonderfully with farmhouse decorating styles, complementing materials like warm wood tones and rustic brass. While color drenching with Boreal Forest would up the cozy factor, alternatively, you could opt to pair this hue with lighter shades for a less intense look. Benjamin Moore recommends Wind Chime AF-465 as a coordinating color, a light gray-green paint.

Lafayette Green HC-135

Part of Benjamin Moore's historical collection, Lafayette Green HC-135 is a dark green guaranteed to add drama to the home. Although bold, this color maintains a sophisticated, timeless feel that doesn't feel too trend-led.

'A handsome hunter green, this dark hue exudes ease and elegance,' says Arianna. 'Not too dark, it has just the right amount of depth to bring contrast and color to a space without overwhelming it. I love to use this hue in home offices, libraries, and reading nooks.'

To complete the color scheme, Benjamin Moore suggests teaming it with warm neutral paints, specifically Clarksville Gray HC-102 and Glacier White OC-37.

Windsor Green CW-505

Looking for a warmer dark green paint? Windsor Green CW-505 is an opulent shade reminiscent of popular 18th-century colors, lending itself to traditional decorating ideas.

'With more of a mossy undertone, this mid-tone green works beautifully in smaller spaces like mudrooms or entryways,' adds Arianna. 'Paired with wallpaper or used on decorative paneling, it can easily blend modern and traditional styles.'

To make the most of this paint color, go all out with color drenching in small rooms for an unexpected yet timeless hit of color. Or, if you want to team this shade with a neutral, Benjamin Moore recommends Harwood Putty CW-5, a classic white paint as a coordinating shade.

Jade Romanesque 476

Jade Romanesque 476 has more of a muddy appearance, meaning it doesn't feel too lively and instead works as a neutral shade in the home.

'Exuding old warm charm, this serene green has more of a toasted olive undertone,' says Arianna. 'It leans slightly more neutral than our other suggestions and works beautifully in transitional spaces like hallways and stairwells that connect multiple rooms in the home. These spaces are often overlooked as more utilitarian rooms but they can create a great opportunity for a bolder color statement.'

Lean into lighter shades when decorating with this shade to maintain the natural look; Benjamin Moore suggests White Down 970, a light greige paint, and Grasslands 502, a lighter warm-toned green.

Whichever you choose, these four paint colors are equally stylish and you can be assured you're in keeping with 2025's color trends by incorporating them into your home.

Last weekend, the eyes of the world fell on Liverpool – the northern English host city of The Eurovision Song Contest. However, while the contest itself was a spectacle, we couldn't help but feel briefly distracted by the backdrop of the opening sequence  –featuring Catherine, Princess of Wales.

Making a surprise appearance, the Princess was seen in a pre-recorded video at the start of the show – alongside famed Phantom of the Opera and Cats composer Andrew Lloyd Webber, and singers Sam Ryder and Joss Stone. 

Of course, the Princess' performance quickly made headlines – but we think the opulent backdrop, The Crimson Drawing Room at the medieval Windsor Castle, deserves recognition, too.

As one of the most beautiful rooms in the Berkshire royal residence, the Crimson Drawing Room was the perfect setting, with its crimson drapes, gold paint, and chandeliers, to showcase Windsor's luxury to the world. 

The royals are no strangers to decorating with red – most notably in Buckingham Palace – the famous London home around 24 miles from Windsor. Recently, similar shades of red and gold were also seen in the backdrop of King Charles' official coronation portraits. 

 Everything we know about The Crimson Drawing Room 

The Crimson Drawing Room is a semi-State Room that was regularly used by Queen Elizabeth for private events. It overlooks the East Terrace Garden, with Home Park in the distance, and was originally created by Sir Jeffry Wyatville as the principal reception room in an interconnecting suite; previously, the room had been part of the apartments where Queen Charlotte, whose life is fictionalized by Shonda Rhimes on Netflix currently, lived.

According to the Royal Collection Trust, 'Great attention and expenditure were lavished on the curtains, passementerie, and wall hangings throughout the new apartments. The material shown in the "miniature designs" was a striped poppy-colored velvet, supplied by the mercer W.E. King at a cost of £3 13s. per yard; this was by some margin the most expensive fabric used at Windsor.'

The Windsor Castle fire destroyed the room in 1992 – along with 114 other rooms (and nine State Rooms) in the castle. However, it has since been returned to its former glory (above) – and is open to the public for part of the year.

In the footage, Catherine is seated at the grand piano playing a piece of music specially created for her by pianists Joe Price and Kojo Samuel. The full video also featured last year's Eurovision winner's Kalush Orchestra singing Stefania in the iconic Maidan Nezalezhnosti metro station in Kyiv, Ukraine.

You can discover more about Windsor Castle's history, and the fire, in this book below.

King Charles and the Prince of Wales have marked the end of The Queen's Green Canopy project by planting an acer (or maple) in the gardens of Sandringham House, Norfolk. 

The tree was one of over 3 million planted around the United Kingdom since May 2021 – in honor of the late Queen's Platinum Jubilee (June 2022). The project aimed to increase and protect the native tree cover around the UK – as citizens were encouraged to plant a tree as a 'gift' for the Queen' who had spent 70 years on the throne.

The King and Prince William planted the tree on the royal residence grounds – recognizing the end of the second planting season – and the incentive.

'It is hard to believe that two years have passed since my mother and I planted a tree in Windsor Great Park to mark the commencement of The Queen’s Green Canopy,' King Charles says in a statement. 

'As the second planting season draws to a close, and with it this vitally important initiative, I particularly wanted to express my heartfelt thanks to everyone from across the United Kingdom who has helped to plant over three million trees to create an enduring legacy in Queen Elizabeth’s name.

'This project has shown how simple, practical, and positive gestures can make a big difference, and I can think of no more fitting tribute to Her late Majesty’s seventy-year reign.'

King Charles' garden at the Sandringham estate offers much to be admired – from the thousands of acres of woodland and parks – to the array of flowers, shrubbery, and wildlife around the estate. This acer tree, however, is perhaps the most meaningful of all – and arguably, the most replicable in gardens on either side of the Atlantic.

'Acers are amongst the best trees for small gardens and offer a beautiful range of foliage colors – from dark purples to bright reds or yellow leaves – to grace any backyard,' says H&G's garden expert, Drew Swainston. 'They are slower-growing trees compact enough to make them perfect for growing in containers, too.'

Though the Queen's Green Canopy project may have come to an end, the King, who is known for his dedication to sustainable gardens, would still likely encourage tree planting worldwide. And an acer is a great place to begin.

'Acers like a cool and dappled shade; it is best to keep them out of the brightest sun as it can scorch their leaves,' Drew says.

'They are simple trees to maintain as they usually need very little in the form of pruning other than to smarten up their shape over the course of their long lifespan. The trees will benefit from a good mulch of compost or well-rotted organic matter each year and watering during particularly hot spells.'

We're spending this Easter weekend following in royal footsteps...

The subject of Prince Harry and Meghan's home is one of the most talked-about topics of the moment – but while a question mark remains over their UK residence – we return to their permanent property in Montecito, California. 

Snapshots from the property (which is famously one of the world's best homes) recently appeared in the couple's famed Netflix documentary – Harry & Meghan – in between their interview clips that were filmed in another property 9 miles from their mansion. 

Footage from their home includes a moment in their kitchen and living room (featuring this Hermès blanket) and their tropical garden – complete with a large swimming pool, pond, and Archie's chicken coop (as seen in their famed interview with Oprah in 2021). Perhaps the most beautiful part of their garden, however, is its selection of flowers in full bloom in the clip (below).  

In the snippets that initially appeared on Netflix, Prince Harry is seen carrying Archie up the stone steps surrounded by purple hardy geraniums overflowing onto the path. Harry and Archie continue to wander the verdant garden – where the purple flowers turn to orange and pink underneath the Southern Californian sun. 

It's certainly easy to see, therefore, why the garden was the feature that initially sold the house to the couple. 'One of the first things my husband saw when we walked around the house was those two palm trees. See how they're connected at the bottom? He goes, "My love; it's us,'" Meghan shared with The Cut.  

In the same interview, Meghan said they had only toured the grounds before telling the agent they had to get the home. 'We did everything we could to get this house... It's healing. You feel free,' she says. 

Since this clip, Meghan and Harry went on to welcome their daughter Lilibet Diana who is also likely to enjoy the garden in the same way as her older brother.

In the UK, King Charles III has reportedly asked the couple to vacate Frogmore Cottage – the famed royal residence which is part of Home Park in Windsor. This garden has a more country-style aesthetic with a sprawling grassy patch and roses climbing the white-painted cottage walls. 

Reports hint that the couple will move to a private apartment in Buckingham Palace that will serve as their base when visiting the UK.

Prince Harry is reportedly 'pushing hard to go down the private island route' in the next unexpected twist to the Sussex's property portfolio. 

Following their recent 'eviction' from Frogmore Cottage in Windsor, England, the subject of where Meghan and Harry will reside beyond their main Montecito home has come into play. Some say King Charles may offer the couple a private apartment in Buckingham Palace – but a recent report suggests they are more interested in a private island all their own. 

A source, speaking to Heat magazine in the UK, said that Harry is 'pushing hard to go down the private island route' as he 'loved the idea of living in a natural and eco-friendly environment,' The Mirror, a British news publication, reports. Heat's source adds that Harry and Meghan's new home won't serve as a vacation getaway but as their main home as they look to relocate entirely. 

'The situation is rapidly becoming uncomfortable to the point of untenable,' the source says. 'There are talks of keeping base in LA and heading somewhere new like Canada, South Africa, or one of the other countries where they have more popularity and public sympathy.'

The couple resides in a $14.7 million mansion in Montecito, California – their first permanent home since stepping down as royals. In an interview with The Cut, Meghan shared they did 'everything we could to get this house' because of its therapeutic and joyous qualities. 

'You walk in and go… Joy. And exhale. And calm. It's healing. You feel free,' she says. However, as the 'situation' evolves, the couple may be looking to relocate to a more private residence.

Meghan and Harry may be the first royals to relocate to a private island, but it's not their first time trying island life. The couple visited Kaibu Island – a 13.9-mile-long island off the coast of Fiji, during a royal tour in 2018, where they stayed on the island’s Vatuvara resort (a solar-powered retreat only accessible by private plane).

The source adds that the distraction of an expanding property portfolio is welcome among the couple, who view it as a 'chance to reap the benefits of their success, rather than escaping from their troubles,' The Mirror reports.

Little is known about the islands Harry and Meghan may be considering, but we'll keep you updated once we know more. 

Buckingham Palace is arguably the most recognized 'royal residence' globally – but the areas that actually serve as homes are far less familiar to the outside world. 

Though the palace, located in central London, is considered a royal residence, much of the landmark property consists of official State Apartments that serve as meeting spaces for foreign dignitaries, royals, and celebrities alike. These rooms are also open to the public for selected dates during winter and spring and ten weeks each summer. 

The palace's Private Apartments are, however, much less explored – and they may soon serve as the UK base for Meghan and Harry, who were 'evicted' from Frogmore Cottage in Windsor. 

According to The Mail on Sunday, King Charles requested the couple leave their former home and is said to have offered the property to his brother, Andrew, the Duke of York. However, reports say that the monarch has offered Meghan and Harry an 'olive branch' in the shape of an apartment in Buckingham Palace. 

'His Majesty is furious [with Harry], as is [Prince] William. But the King is not a bad man. He has no wish to see his brother Andrew homeless or penniless. Nor does he wish to deprive the Sussexes of a base in the UK,' the source told The Mail. It is reported that the King coincidentally offered Frogmore to Prince Andrew, where he may move after 20 years in the 30-room Royal Lodge mansion in Windsor.

'London is a better fit,' the source adds. 'The Sussexes have always wanted rooms at Buckingham Palace. They could have Andrew’s old rooms there, which are currently being vacated.' Here's what else we know about the secret royal homes. 

Buckingham Palace's Private Apartments – what you need to know

Located at the rear right of the palace, the private apartments run along the northwest flank of the building – and a small section faces the rear of Buckingham Palace Gardens. 

A floorplan designed by Screen Therapy shows the series of rooms that stretch from the Mall to the gardens – including the Queen’s Audience Room (located on the ground floor) that exhibits floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the lawn. 

The Private Apartments make up at least 25 of the 775 rooms in the palace – however, while this is considered a 'small' percentage in terms of the entire building, it is likely to offer ample space for Harry, Meghan, and their two children Archie and Lilibet Mountbatten-Windsor. 

Images from inside the home are unsurprisingly sparse; however, there are some exceptions. This includes a photo of the Queen’s Audience Room (pictured below) that offers a glimpse into the private part of the palace. 

This room, designed by John Fowler, exhibits polished dark wood floors and white contrast moldings that create a contrast against the floor. There is a selection of ornate antique furnishings including a cream armchair and a gold-fringed mirror above the fireplace.

Alongside the communal spaces and rooms for staff, the private apartment has Monarch’s Suite, Consort’s Suite, and The Morning Room – where the late Queen and Prince Philip reportedly had breakfast when they stayed in Buckingham Palace. 

There are no official images of this space; however, a journalist for The Mirror shared a photo (seen here) following a period as an undercover footman who was employed by the palace in 2003. 

Where are the private apartments in Buckingham Palace?

The private living spaces are located at the rear right of the building – spanning from The Mall to the Queen’s Audience Room that overlooks Buckingham Palace's lawn. 

The rumors regarding Harry and Meghan are yet to be confirmed, but we'll keep you updated as we know more about their property portfolio – and the future of Buckingham Palace's most undisclosed areas. 

Few residences hold the prestige of Kensington Palace – the official London residence of The Prince and Princess of Wales, owned by King Charles III.

While the Prince, Princess, and their children spend much of their time away from Kensington Palace (in Adelaide Cottage on the Windsor Castle Estate) – their home, known as Apartment 1A – serves as a base when visiting the British capital. This part of the palace is (understandably) closed to visitors (who can explore the Queen's and King's State Apartments and gardens) – so glimpses inside the home are hard to come by. However, they are some exceptions. 

Rare snapshots from the Prince and Princess's living spaces give a sense of their decorating ideas  – reportedly designed by Ben Pentreath (whose other clients include Liv Tyler and Sarah Jessica Parker). Here's what you can learn from their home in Kensington Palace, according to designers in the know. 

1. Begin with a taupe, cream and beige color palette

While there is a lot to note about Kensington Palace's color scheme – the base hues are the best place to start. All the photos showcase a timeless neutral backdrop that allows statement furnishings to make the statement they deserve. However, Los Angeles designer Rande Leaman says that the same can be said for neutral-toned accessories, too.  

'Kate is pictured with two pillows that have a soft taupe and cream color palate and a more organic feel to them,' the designer says. 'I like how the neutral color scheme lets the furnishings, art (and people) stand out.'

The princess' pillow has a faint thistle print, shown subtly against the neutral material. We found a similar style pillow (also boasting a floral pattern) below. 

2.  Don't underestimate the power of a side table

'What I love about these images from Kensington Palace is that you can clearly feel that it is a traditional design style, and yet there is still some modern flair seen in the use of a plexiglass side table,' says designer Faith Blakeney. 

'Had it not been for this table (seen below), the design would have felt too cluttered and over the top, but adding something simple and modern created the space to enjoy all the classical pieces around it.'

And Faith is not alone in her observations. Rande also draws attention to the table – saying that the contemporary piece is a reminder of the family who frequents the space. 

'Amid stunning antique furnishings, I love how they've incorporated a contemporary lucite side table in the mix,' she says. 'This combination of styles shakes up the traditional decor and reminds us a young family resides here.'

3. Invest in an upholstered ottoman 

Few ottoman ideas are quite as luxurious and beautiful as the one seen in Kensington Palace, pictured above. 

'I adore the giant upholstered ottoman (which I first mistook for the most elegant and decadent dog bed I've ever seen). Its extremely large size and muted colored fabric help the room feel soft and comfortable,' Faith says. 'This is welcome in such a grand, opulent space.' To achieve a similar look, we recommend the one below. 

4. Interrupt a neutral scheme with vibrant accessories 

Rande has already noted neutral base colors allow colored furnishings to stand out, but Heather Humphrey, the founder and principal designer at Alder & Tweed, agrees. 

'One of my favorite features from the photos below is how much color is infused into each space. They weren’t afraid to mix unexpected floral patterns and bright colors that complement each other and add visual interest,' Heather says.

5. Experiment with antique furniture in a contemporary setting

It may come as no surprise that Apartment 1A is a trove of the finest antique furniture (it has served as a royal residence for young royals for over 300 years, after all). However, notably the Prince and Princess of Wales have paired these pieces with more modern furnishings to bring the home firmly into the twenty-first century. 

'I love in the palace is the antique pieces that are scattered throughout the rooms. The mix of old and new pieces juxtaposes a vintage yet timeless space,' Heather says. 'The classic ornamental gold frames fill the walls in a beautiful way.'

The Montecito mansion where Prince Harry and Meghan Markle filmed much of their eponymous Netflix documentary is on the market for $33.5 million.

The long-anticipated series sparked a global conversation about the couple's life beyond the British monarchy – but of course – it was hard not to be distracted by the stylish backdrop. However, if you were watching to take note of Meghan and Harry's design ideas and decorating quirks, you might have been disappointed. 

Instead of sharing an insight into their unofficial royal residence, the couple filmed in this $33m mansion, a nine minute drive from their $14 million estate. The Mediterranean-style property is now on the market, so you can explore rooms beyond those that appeared in the most discussed documentary of the year.

The six-bedroom property is truly one of the world's best homes – boasting a great regal room with a chandelier and arched windows where Meghan was extensively filmed. You can see the room in the documentary trailer here on Youtube. 

There is a lot to admire about this living room – perhaps the most beautiful space in the home – from its cream marble floor to the soaring wooden ceilings that create a contrast against the otherwise neutral-toned room.

A black and white kitchen leads from the living space. The cooking space flows into a large dining room that follows the same color ideas and boasts views of the Santa Ynez Mountains, like much of the home. 

Beyond the conventional living spaces, the home exhibits several amenities, including a bar, theater, hot tub, and pool on the grounds. There is also a wood-paneled library with space for hundreds of hardbacks – that also doubles as a luxe home office. These spaces flow onto vast terraces that blend indoor/outdoor living and frame the unrivaled view of the Pacific. 

The property's exterior includes two acres of romantic walkways, citrus orchards, towering palm trees, and accent vines. The home also has a chicken coop for fresh eggs –a feature that is not dissimilar from Meghan and Harry's chicken coop that they created for their son, Prince Archie.

A picturesque guest house also sits on the grounds and is perfect for anyone who might drop by for some Southern California sun.

Meghan and Harry moved to Montecito in 2020, where they lived for a few months at Tyler Perry’s home before purchasing their home. 

The town has long been a favorite escape for the wealthy, including John and Jacqueline Kennedy, who visited during their honeymoon in 1953. Today, celebrities including Ariana Grande, Oprah Winfrey, and Gwyneth Paltrow call the exclusive town their home.

The home is listed with Ryan Malmsten of Santa Barbara Brokers. Photos by Jim Bartsh. Photos courtesy of TopTenRealEstates.com. 

The year 2022 was one of historic change for the Royal Family. The period that began with Queen Elizabeth II on the throne will end with King Charles III as the reigning monarch following her death on September 8th. 

The Queen's passing saw a shift in the family member's titles, responsibilities, and royal residences. So after a year of significant change, it is only inevitable to wonder how their Christmas will compare to previous years. 

Many families learn that the first holiday after a death is the hardest, which is likely to be the case for the royals, who will no doubt remember the late Queen during their festivities. But what can we expect from King Charles' first Christmas on the throne? 

5 Royal Family Christmas traditions

Here, investigate the royals' most notable traditions and whether they are likely to continue after a year like no other.

1. The family will celebrate at Sandringham

King Charles and Queen Consort Camilla will host the royal family at Sandringham –the Norfolk estate frequented by the late monarch at Christmas.

Queen Elizabeth spent 32 holidays at the country residence and only broke tradition during the coronavirus pandemic when she celebrated at Windsor Castle. However, this year, King Charles is set to resume the Christmas tradition and welcome the Prince and Princess of Wales and other senior members of the family. 

Royal experts speculate how long the younger royals will stay at Sandringham, with some suggesting that Catherine hopes to spend some of the period with her parents, the Middletons. However, it is expected that they will be there for at least some of the day – and possibly longer. 

This year, The Daily Mail reports that the King may invite Prince Andrew’s ex-wife, Sarah Ferguson, Duchess of York (famously known as Fergie), to celebrate with her daughters Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie. She has not celebrated with the Royals since 1992 when she separated from the Prince. 

2. They will attend church on Christmas morning

Many families go for a Christmas walk and/or attend a service at their local house of worship, and the Royals are no different. 

On Christmas morning, the family walks from Sandringham to St. Mary Magdalene Church, a 16th-century structure that was visited by Queen Victoria in the nineteenth century. While en route, the family greets well-wishers who often descend on the small town for the 25th. 

It is not guaranteed that the Royals will attend this service, but given their affiliation with the Church of England, it is expected this tradition will continue into 2022 and beyond.

3. Gifts are opened on Christmas Eve

The Royal Family opens their gifts on Christmas Eve – celebrating a Teutonic custom named Heiligabend Bescherung, the legacy of Queen Victoria’s husband, Prince Albert, who also imported the German habit of cutting off the top of a fir tree for it to be decorated inside the home. 

A royal expert confirmed to the Daily Beast that the Christmas Eve tradition will continue and that the family will open their gifts at tea time on the 24th. 

4. The King gifts staff a Christmas tree

With his new role as monarch, Charles is now in charge of gifting not just presents to his staff – but Christmas trees too. 

The Queen's father, King George VI, passed the tradition to his daughter, who was known to give a tree to those who work for the family. Marie Claire reported that the trees came from her Windsor Crown Estate, and every year, she would gift a new tree with a Christmas pudding.

In a statement, the palace confirmed the Queen's gifts in 2021, saying that all members of the Royal Household received presents from Her Majesty, who personally handed the presents to some members at Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle.

5. The Christmas message is pre-recorded at an earlier date

Hello! reports that the King will have pre-recorded his Christmas address to the Commonwealth before the 25th – allowing him and his family to have a relaxed holiday. 

King George V started this tradition when he broadcast his speech on the radio in 1932. It has since become a memorable part of the Christmas Day celebrations for many in the United Kingdom and globally. This year, the King will likely pay tribute to his late mother in the speech, which will be broadcast at 3 PM (GMT) on Christmas Day. 

King Charles III is set to host his first Christmas – not only as the British monarch – but without his late mother, Queen Elizabeth II. This holiday will be the first in modern history without the Queen, who was known for spending the 25th in her beloved Sandringham home in Norfolk, eastern England. 

The royal residence has become synonymous with Christmas for many across the UK and worldwide, for a good reason. The Queen was known to have spent 32 Christmases in the country retreat and only broke tradition during the coronavirus pandemic when she celebrated at Windsor Castle. 

This year, BBC News reports that King Charles will return to Sandringham, along with his wife Camilla, Queen Consort, and their wider family. However, royal expert Jeremy Archer suggests that year will be more low-key, and the Prince and Princess of Wales may not stay in Sandringham for an extended time. 

Jeremy Archer predicts Prince William and Princess Catherine will likely spend Christmas at Sandringham but will then travel south to Berkshire (with their children Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis of Wales) to spend New Year's with the Middletons. 

'It is going to be different, but Christmas at Sandringham works well for the family,' the expert shared with OK!. 'Unlike Windsor and Buckingham Palace, it's a sporting venue and fits in well with their traditional Boxing Day shoot,' he says. 

Former BBC royal correspondent Jennie Bond adds that the Prince and Princess may only call into Sandringham to say 'hello' on Christmas day – saying that they may want to 'do their own thing for at least part of the time.' Therefore, it's possible that they may only enjoy a festive lunch at the Norfolk estate before moving elsewhere.

'While I imagine there will be a gathering at Sandringham, whether it will be quite as extended as it used to be with the Queen and with quite as many people, I’m not sure,' Bond says. 

If the King follows Christmas traditions, he will join the family at a service at St. Mary Magdalene Church in Sandringham on Christmas morning. Queen Elizabeth II was also known to gift her staff presents and a Christmas tree, so he will likely follow this ritual, too.

Beyond the home's regal interiors (and, we expect, luxe Christmas decorations), its grounds are equally as impressive. King Charles's private garden at the Sandringham Estate is among the most beautiful in the country – created by architect and garden designer Geoffrey Jelicoe in 1947 for King George VI. 

The formal enclosed areas of the garden showcase a quintessential 'cottage garden' aesthetic, which we expect to look beautiful when covered in snow.

Sandringham is not a full-time royal residence, meaning it is open to the public for much of the year. It is, however, closed for the holidays, when the family comes together, just as they will do this weekend. You can plan your visit to Sandringham online. 

Sandringham, PE35 6EN, England.

The Kardashian-Jenner family is infamous for never cutting corners when it comes to celebrations, and it seems like Christmas is no different this year.

Showing off her immense, two-story Christmas tree ideas on her Instagram, Kylie Jenner has divided fans with her lavish tree and indulgent decorating style. So big it could rival the impressive royal Windsor Castle Christmas tree, the towering addition stands as the centerpiece of the reality stars' grand entrance hall. 

In a very Christmas-sy reel, Jenner documented the tree's arrival into her home, from the fitting through to the decorations. 

Here we take a look at the tree and how you can get a similar (albeit likely sized-down) look at home.

Kylie Jenner's Christmas tree

With the youngest Jenner known for having some of the best celebrity Christmas trees, this year she has stepped up her Christmas decor ideas once again with a grand 18-foot Christmas tree taking pride of place in the entry of her $16 million L.A. Hidden Hills Mansion. 

The 25-year-old beauty mogul's Insta-reel demonstrates a masterclass in how to decorate a Christmas tree with a team of workers shown getting the tree into perfect shape – with help from Kylie's daughter Stormi and niece, True, of course.

Although the approximately 18ft tree is new for the star, the simple decorations have remained a staple in her home over the last few years with relatively plain warm-toned string lights used for the Christmas light ideas throughout and last year's baubles making a repeat appearance. The overall look of the stunning statement tree seems to play into some of the outstanding Christmas trends for this year with traditional design replacing some of the more modern looks of the last few years (including Kylies previous bright white and gold tree of 2019).

In the past, experts have estimated that the Kardashian-Jenner family's Christmas trees could cost several thousands of dollars even without the hundreds of lights and ornaments that adorn them. 

The stunning Hidden Hills mansion is a favorite of the stars, who bought the home when she was only 19. With eight bedrooms and 11 bathrooms, the Cape-Cod style home is thought to be where the star and her family spend most of their time – although this is perhaps understandable when we consider the home comes with a gourmet kitchen, home theatre, game room, and spa amongst other luxury amenities.  

Where to find the decorations for yourself

The impressive tree was not the only focus of the celebrities reel, however, with Kylie showing off her equally impressive collection of whimsical, red-themed Christmas ornament ideas too. 

While the most noticeable was the vast array of Santa Clauses, many food-themes ornaments made the cut too with a kitsch gingerbread house and coffee cup visible on some of the higher branches, as well as traditionally-inspired toy ornaments such as a sparkling red fire truck and stack of faux golden coins.

Here is where you can find similar for your festive displays.

Ever since Prince Albert introduced the Christmas tree to England in 1840 the British royal family has heralded the festive season with gorgeous decorative displays – and this year is no different. 

All of the royal residences across the country are decorated for Christmas each year, but Windsor Castle is arguably the most impressive with several Christmas trees, wreaths, garlands, and intricate gold decorations.

It is hardly surprising that Windsor puts on such a grand show, however, given that the castle has hosted Monarchs for the holiday since the 12th century. It was King Edward VII that broke with tradition to spend Christmases at Sandringham – something that the late Queen Elizabeth II and her son, King Charles II, continued.

Here, we take a look at some of the finest decorations on display for guests at the castle.

As with any home, Christmas tree ideas are the center of the decorative focus at Windsor Castle however no tree entirely stands up to the immense 20-foot-high Nordmann Fir tree erected in St. Georges Hall each year. 

The castle's trees are grown on the castle grounds in Windsor Park before one is selected and hauled into the castle by a team of nine staff members to take pride of place in the Castle over the holidays and adorned with thousands of ornaments – a process that takes around 13 hours and two cranes to complete. 

For a castle of its size, one tree is obviously not enough for Windsor. However, the rest (much to the staff's relief, we imagine) are much smaller. The Crimson Drawing room, for example, has a slightly smaller tree although it is no less impressive. 

The tree is decorated ornately, matching the resplendent room it is found in, with red and gold baubles. It truly is a masterclass in how to decorate a Christmas tree.

In previous years, the castle has not stopped at traditional Christmas decor ideas and we doubt that this year will be any different. 

Last year, for example, the state dining room was dressed formally with the Grand Service, a collection of spectacular silver-gilt dining service that consists of over 4,000 pieces in total. The impressive tableware is still used today for state banquets. 

The state dining room was largely destroyed in 1992 after large swathes of the castle were engulfed in a fire. After painstaking restoration work, however, the dining room was reinstated to its past grandeur with gold paneled walls and ceilings, floor-length ruby red curtains, and matching carpets. 

As well as the grand central table, gold-trimmed mahogany tables line the back wall too, with the opposite wall dominated by an ornate marble fireplace and a portrait of Queen Victoria. 

For a family so invested in their gardens, with Buckingham palace gardens and King Charles' private garden at the Sandringham Estate being amongst the finest in the country, it is unsurprising that so much fresh foliage and greenery is introduced into the castle at Christmas. 

Alongside the living Christmas trees, fresh wreaths and garlands are used both inside the castle in hallways, grand stairways, and halls and outside on gates. Handcrafted by castle staff and gardeners, the garlands are yet another wonderfully personal touch to Windsor's decor. 

There is barely a spot in the castle that is not adorned with Christmas spirit, with Christmas hallways decorations taking on a new meaning in the expansive hallways and passageways of the castle. 

In the Queen's Gallery, for example, smaller Christmas trees line the walkways and are decorated to complement the rare silver furniture on display. 

Understated but sure to make an impression is a single tree found in the Inner Hall of Windsor, a space designed by King George IV in the 1820s to receive official guests. 

The hall is now the first room encountered by public visitors on their tour of the castle, with the warmly lit Christmas tree bouncing festive light around the grandly sculpted stone hall with its classical columns and vaulted ceiling ideas.

Is Windsor castle decorated at Christmas?

Windsor Castle is decorated every Christmas with the State Apartments adorned in beautiful decorations and several Christmas trees, many of which tower in height. Christmas is a special tradition in the royal household, with Prince Albert introducing the Christmas tree into mainstream English Christmas celebrations in 1840. 

Is Windsor Castle open over Christmas?

Windsor Castle is open throughout the year including at Christmas, with the astounding Christmas decorations viewable from the 24th November through to January 2nd. The castle closes on Christmas day, however, to observe the holiday. 

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex recently made headlines after formally posing together for a TIME magazine cover shoot. 

The historical image that graced the cover commemorated the couple's place amongst the world's 100 most influential people – an honor that offered a glimpse behind (arguably) the most famous couple of the moment. However, while there is a lot to learn about the lives of Meghan and Harry, we were distracted by the exterior of their Montecito estate (famously one of the world's best homes) and what it means to the family.

Much like the couple's decorating ideas, little is –or was – known about their Montecito garden. However, the new images offer an insight into their tranquil garden and their Californian way of life. 

In the photograph, Meghan and Harry are captured wandering through a section of their 7.38-acre garden that surrounds their mansion – the only royal residence in Montecito. The calming, healing gardens are beautifully landscaped but encourage rewilding through the abundant trees that frame the couple in the image. 

A palm tree, which is one of the reasons why Meghan and Harry love the home, sits out of shot. 'One of the first things my husband saw when we walked around the house was those two palm trees. See how they're connected at the bottom? He goes, 'My love, it's us,' Meghan shared with The Cut. 

In her interview, the Duchess shared that they had only toured the grounds when they told the real estate agent that they had to get the home – even before they saw the inside. We did everything we could to get this house... It's healing. You feel free.'

Despite the therapeutic qualities of the garden – and the property as a whole – there are rumors circulating that Meghan Markle and Prince Harry are selling their Montecito home. However, it is clear that this garden is unique to the couple – who have designed the space with their children, Archie and Lilibet Mountbatten-Windsor, in mind. 

Following the Oprah interview, the couple sparked a chicken coop trend after sharing the coop (known as Archie's Chick Inn), full of hens that they had rescued from a local farm. Alongside the coop and the palm tree, the home has a pool house and swimming pool that is surrounded by verdant greenery.

And according to the original real estate listing (acquired by Hello), the garden is perfect for Archie and Lilibet as there is a huge adventure playground on the estate.. 

The Prince and Princess of Wales recently made headlines after moving to Adelaide Cottage – their new family home in Windsor Home Park just east of Windsor Castle in Berkshire.

When a member of the family moves royal residences (or an entire family, as is the case here), it is only inevitable to want to catch a glimpse into their decorating ideas – and royal fans have not had to wait too long in this case. 

Catherine, the Princess of Wales, recently shared an insight into one of the living spaces in Adelaide Cottage, which she shares with her husband, Prince William, and their children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis. The room served as the backdrop to a video for Addiction Awareness Week, which Catherine shared via the Kensington Royal Twitter (below). 

This footage is the first and only insight into the famous Adelaide Cottage and offers a hint at what the rest of the home's decor might involve.

The space is undeniably traditional – with its pink, white and red color ideas that make the space feel warming and welcoming but fittingly regal. The framed photographs that sit behind the Princess bring a sense of personality to the room and encourage us to incorporate sentimental pieces in our homes – whether that is through photos (such as these) or other heirlooms. 

Beyond the color scheme and accessories, the room is a masterclass in luxurious textiles – seen primarily through its clean sofa and tossed cushions that add comfort without sacrificing style. A similar blend was seen in the family's former home, Kensington Palace, in London. In that home (pictured below), the Prince and Princess similarly married warming textures with interior design trends – merging a large, comfortable sofa with printed cushions and striking houseplants. 

Prince William and Kate's move to Adelaide Cottage reportedly came after the couple wanted to give their children as normal an upbringing as possible. The home, which is just under thirty miles away from the center of London, is convenient for the children's school and is also close to Windsor Castle – one of the most famous royal residences in the UK. 

The four-bedroom property was initially a teahouse for Queen Adelaide in the early nineteenth century, but it quickly became more elegant after the reign over Queen Victoria (who used it as a guesthouse). The cottage has served as a prominent royal residence over recent years, but its new tenants, William and Catherine, will surely continue to bring the home firmly into the modern day – without losing its quintessential charm, naturally. 

With the long-awaited return of The Crown hitting our screens this week, many are curious as to how the cast and crew were able to film in so many important, and iconic, locations. 

Given that many of the royal residences such as Buckingham Palace and Windsor castle are working castles, the showrunners relied on some of the best location scouts to find brilliant backdrops for the unfolding drama and rising tensions of season five. 

Here, we take a look at some of the most iconic The Crown filming locations, and what real-life locations they were made to portray. 

Ardverikie Estate – a stand-in for Balmoral

Not exclusive to season five, Ardverikie Estate has been a stand-in for Balmoral castle throughout The Crown series. The traditional Highland sporting castle is first spotted in season five as Queen Elizabeth II (Imelda Staunton) arrives with her entourage to the sound of bagpipes.

Owned by the same family for over 150 years, the 19th-century estate extends over 38,000 acres – much smaller than its beginnings and is now managed by the family as a center for conservation. 

It is the estates exterior that makes it an iconic dwelling in the Scottish Highlands, situated in Kinloch Laggan, Inverness-shire, the baronial house is most famous for its 'pepper pot' turrets. The surrounding grounds are dominated by idyllic woodland and lush forest, with a backdrop of breathtaking mountains. 

Although not a royal home itself, the estate has played host to a series of royals throughout its history. Most notable being Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, who spent three weeks at the state in the summer of 1847 to hunt.

The estate is now open to the public to walk the grounds and stay in one of several holiday cottages on the premises. 

Lancaster House – a twin for Buckingham Palace

It would not be a series about the British Royal family without Buckingham Palace, but what can you do when the palace is busy? Use its smaller twin of course. Lancaster House was a vital The Crown filming location this season, with the lavish 1820s townhouse used for several interior shots. 

One of the world's best homes, the mansion is one of the last surviving examples of extravagant palaces built in the 19th century and, as such, is one of the last remnants of the lavish high society that dominated the era. 

The interior of the property makes it an ideal filming location, with original neo-classical style columns, geometric features, and patterns adorning the architecture. Other finishes, such as oblique Baroque, rococo, and 19th-century additions maintain the air of grandeur needed for a royal party house. 

The property is now used primarily by the UK government's Foreign and Commonwealth office – when it is not dressed to look like the palace, of course. 

Knebworth House – the second stand-in for Balmoral

Despite its castle-like appearance, Knebworth house is an English country home in Hertfordshire. The Grade II listed building became another interior double for Balmoral during the shooting of The Crown season five – despite being a nine-hour drive away from the original castle. 

The home has once again belonged to the same family since 1490, who have drastically altered the home both in and out over the centuries. Originally a red-brick Late Gothic manor house, later ancestors remodeled the home into a Tudor Gothic castle in the late 1800s – many of these changes are what we see today. 

The romantic exterior may appear domineering, with countless turrets, domes, and gargoyles creating a mean-looking silhouette. Behind the Victorian-added facade, however, are the remains of the much simpler Tudor home.

The interior of the property has also seen extensive remodels, the most notable being the work of Sir Edwin Lutyens. The home has barely a plain ceiling idea in sight, with many of the rooms adorned with intricate plasterwork and hand-painted motifs, while the walls are either covered in expensive fabric hangings, original portraiture, or ornate wallpapers and paneling. It is perhaps of little wonder that the house can stand in so easily for a Royal castle. 

The house has immense garden ideas too, spanning 28 acres with a mixture of formal gardens, mazes, and wildlife garden ideas and trails. 

Some parts of the garden date back to the 17th century, while the present layout is once again the work of the Edwardian period. Sir Edwin Lutyens saw to the simplification of the ornate beds and lawns, for example, while also ensuring the addition of avenues of pollarded lime trees and the planting of a herb garden. 

The home is now owned by Henry Lytton-Cobbold who, after a career in the film industry, lets the property to produces such as Netflix to use as backdrops 

Waddesdon Manor – a less obvious dupe for Paris' The Ritz 

It may be strange to think of using such a splendid manor for a Parisian hotel, but the home's magnificent French Renaissance style lends itself perfectly to a recreation of the esteemed Ritz Hotel.

With the Ritz featuring as a key location in episode three of The Crown season five, both the exterior and interior of the property were used for the new season. 

The manor was built over six years, beginning in 1877, by Baron Ferdinand de Rothschild after he purchased a plot of barren agricultural land in 1874. The result is a stunning property surrounded by mature trees and wilderness created from what started as nothing. 

The exterior of the house was designed in the style of the French Renaissance Châteaux of the Lore Valley by French architect Gabriel-Hippolyte Destailleur. Once complete, the home was celebrated with several house parties of a grand scale. The manors interiors make an obvious choice for replicating the Ritz too, defined by Neo-classical architecture and offering a masterclass in decorating with art.

The estate was by no means a family home, but the property was used to house over 100 refugee children during World War II – the first and only time children resided at the house. 

Burghley House – Windsor Castles double

Season five of The Crown also depicts the destructive Windsor Castle fire of 1992. In the blaze, 115 rooms were completely destroyed, including nine staterooms all at a time when the royal family was facing crisis after crisis. 

The Tudor mansion, built by Queen Elizabeth Is Lord High Treasurer between 1555 and 1557, became an obvious choice for replicating the famous and beloved castle and has been seen throughout the series. 

No room was ever destroyed for the show, however, with set designers and prop makers working tirelessly to recreate Burghley House's Great Hall piece by piece on set to be burned for the cameras. From the grand Tudor fireplace ideas to the double hammer-beam ceiling, the showrunners left not one feature out of the soon-to-be-destroyed set. 

Dodi’s Paradise Cove Home – Dianna's Malibu escape

One of the few The Crown filming locations that used the original setting, Dodi Al Fayed's Malibu home was reopened to the cast and crew as the backdrop for Princess Diana's illicit love interest. 

The California 'dream home' is likely to feature more often in the show, with the sunny escape rumored to be the center of Diana's plans for escaping the palace and England as her marriage very publically fell apart. 

The Tuscan-style villa is a far cry from the very traditional settings of the British aristocracy and marks a direct shift in the show's focus and the crisis the Royal Family faces between the late 1990s and early 2000s. Boasting 7,500 square feet, the home is situated on a wonderfully isolated five acres overlooking the Pacific Ocean and had been owned by Julie Andrews before Fayed's purchase.

The home has one reception room and several bedrooms on the ground floor, as well as an open-plan kitchen that opens up to an outdoor dining terrace and pool area. The modern living room with limestone fireplace seems the foil of the traditional marble of English palaces.

The master quite could have been seen as equally extravagant, however, with raw silk wall coverings and a high, wrought iron four-poster bed hung with pure cotton.

Where were Buckingham palace scenes filmed in The Crown?

Many of the Buckingham Palace scenes in The Crown were not filmed at the palace at all but in other royal properties or manors around the UK. While Lancaster House was used for much of the filming of season five, other seasons have used locations such as Wilton House is Salisbury or Goldsmith's Hall in London. 

In their move from Kensington Palace to Adelaide Cottage, it is reported that Prince William and Kate Middleton have downsized, according to a royal insider, who has revealed that the couple's new four-bedroom home is one room smaller than their previous suites. 

Adelaide Cottage is one of many royal residences used by senior royals who wish to take a step away from the public eye and maintain privacy in their personal lives. The move was completed earlier this fall before their three children started school, but it has been revealed that the home is perhaps not as large as they were used to. 

With the family set to make yet another move to Windsor Castle at some point in the next year, we take a look at the humble cottage that currently houses the heirs to the throne. 

While a splendid cottage with four bedroom ideas may sound like a luxury to anybody else, the smaller property means that the couple will likely have had to break with royal tradition – marking yet another change in the royal protocol as King Charles decided against Buckingham Palace for his new home earlier this year.

According to tradition, each royal family member has their own bedroom, with suites at Kensington Palace boasting two master suites for the Prince and Princess respectively. 

The aristocracy 'always have separate bedrooms,' Lady Pamela Hicks, Prince Phillips's cousin and lady-in-waiting to Queen Elizabeth II, once said. 'In England, the upper class always had separate bedrooms. You don't want to be bothered with snoring or someone flinging a leg around.'

'It is lovely to be able to choose,' she had added. 

Unless two of their three children are sharing a room, it is likely that the couple will have to forgo this tradition and the tradition of maintaining a live-in nanny in their new Berkshire abode. 

4 things to know about Adelaide Cottage

As with any historic home, Adelaide cottage has its own long – and at times scandalous, past. We take a look.

1. Nearly 200 years old, the cottage is still a wondrous piece of architecture

The 19th century, grade II listed cottage is famously one of the most private of the royal houses, with very few pictures of the exterior of the cottage to be found and no cameras allowed inside of the home – with the exception of the blooming photographer Kate Middleton's, of course. 

Despite its 'humble' size, however, the cottage is not short of royal flare, with extensive renovations in 2015 reportedly maintaining a Graeco-Egyptian fireplace, gilded dolphin motifs on the bedroom ceiling ideas, and rope decorations from a 19th-century royal yacht. Erected in a picturesque style, the building has been described throughout history as 'chastely elegant', and originally contained spaces such as two public rooms, a retiring room, and a pages room. The wondrous architecture means the property can be found on the protected National Heritage list.

Such grand decorations are perhaps to be expected given the cottage's prime location on the grounds of Home Park on the Windsor Estate. Built in 1831 for William IV's wife, Queen Adelaide, the cottage is often described as an idyllic upscale 'grace and favor' home, given to close friends and family as a token of love and gratitude. 

The stucco façade, sculptural chimneys, and period fireplaces shall remain untouched in the protected home due to both the nature of the properties listing, and the previous uproar of the British taxpayers after the renovations at the neighboring Frogmore Cottage, owned by Prince Harry and Meghan.

Luckily for William and Kate, they will continue their ownership of apartment 1a at Kensington Palace when they commute to London for royal engagements. They also maintain their ownership of Anmer Hall on the Sandringham estate, a countryside escape that the young family has grown incredibly fond of.

2. The cottage has been home royal scandal

While the cottage is now seen as a splendid family home, its past is a little more sordid.

The royal family is infamous for some scandals they would rather forget, one of which being the unsavory affair between the divorced Captain Peter Wooldridge Townsend, a Royal Airforce officer, and the late Queen's sister, Princess Margaret. A relationship the royals attempted to keep under wraps for many years with Townsend residing in the cottage.

It was not until King Charles' marriage to the then-divorced Camilla Parker Bowles that divorcees were welcomed into the royal fold, making the princess's brief engagement one that cast a long shadow over the family for many years until Margaret was forced to end the relationship.

3. The architect is also responsible for Windsor Castle's most iconic features

Architect Sir Jeffry Wyatville was not only entrusted to design and oversee the picturesque cottage by King George IV, but also extensive renovations to the nearby Windsor castle. 

Wyatville added many of the castle's iconic features such as the towers, turrets, and crenelations that give the castle its distinctly gothic appearance – a far cry from the idyllic and quaint cottage, demonstrating the extraordinary architect's range. Wyatville is also the mastermind behind the Waterloo Chamber, a masterful celebration of the defeat of the French at the end of the Napoleonic wars in the Battle of Waterloo. 

The Waterloo Chamber is now one of the highlights of the Windsor Castle tour. 

4. Ever a family for sustainability, the cottage was formed from reclaimed materials

The modern royal family is famous for its efforts toward sustainability and it looks as if the lineage has not changed much in the last century. 

According to Jane Robert's book Royal Landscape: The Gardens and Parks of Windsor (now out of print), the cottage was constructed using old parts reclaimed from the original Royal Lodge that had been demolished in 1830. The veranda, french windows, roof tiles, and chimney are amongst the parts salvaged, Robert's claims, along with some of the lodge's original furniture. 

Has Adelaide Cottage been renovated?

Adelaide Cottage underwent a series of major renovations in 2015, the first since 1955, that brought the home up to modern standards and converted the property into a comfortable four-bedroom home with grand royal touches such as ceilings covered in gilded dolphins and a marble Graeco-Egyptian fireplace.

Who owns Frogmore Cottage in Windsor?

Frogmore Cottage is currently owned by the crown but is being leased by Prince Harry and Megan. The couple currently spend most of their time in the US with their two children, however, so the property is currently in use by Princes Eugenie and her husband.

After ascending to the throne on 8 September 2022, following the death of Queen Elizabeth II, King Charles inherited more than a position. 

The 73-year-old monarch is now the leader of a multi-billion dollar real estate portfolio that includes property in England, Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland, and Romania. The entire collection consists of palaces, castles, cottages, and ancient ruins, some of which serve as royal residences for King Charles and his wife Camilla, Queen Consort. 

While many of these properties are known as the world's best homes, it is important to note that some of these estates are not used as domestic spaces by the King. The majority of the land in this portfolio is, in fact, owned by the Crown Estate, the Duchy of Lancaster, and the Duchy of Cornwall, meaning they are held 'in right of the Crown' throughout King Charles' reign. 

Other homes are kept 'in trust' by the monarchy itself (for those who will succeed King Charles), and some are held by two foundations that the King had formally established. 

King Charles' property portfolio – the 10 most expensive estates

King Charles and Camilla currently reside in Clarence House in London and Highgrove House in Gloucestershire, South West England. However, while these two homes are certainly beautiful, they are not among the ten most expensive properties owned by the Crown. 

An investigation by Forbes revealed Clarence House is worth an estimated $72 million, while Highgrove is now worth approximately $39 million. The King's holiday cottages in Romania are worth an estimated $1.1 million each. Here, we explore the ten most expensive estates in the portfolio. 

1. Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace, perhaps the most famous royal estate of all, is also the most expensive – with an estimated value of $4.9 billion, according to Forbes. 

A move to the British landmark would be in keeping with tradition; however, King Charles is expected to decide against moving into Buckingham Palace and remain in Clarence House when staying in London. 

The billion-dollar property has served as the official home of British monarchs since 1837 and continues to act as a place for the family to host dignitaries and other heads of state. It has a remarkable 775 rooms, consisting of 19 Staterooms, 52 bedrooms, and 78 bathrooms.

2. Hampton Court Palace

Hampton Court may now be best associated with its eponymously named flower show, held annually by the RHS. However, this estate has seen its share of historical events over the centuries. 

The palace – which is worth an estimated $1.2 billion – was King Henry VIII's most-used residence, and he lived there with all six of his wives during his 38-year reign. The estate is found 12 miles southwest of central London, in the London Borough of Richmond upon Thames – so it is unsurprising that the palace welcomes hundreds of thousands of visitors every year.  

Remnants of King Henry VIII's reign are still visible, such as his extensive art collection, are visible to visitors today. It is, however, one of only two palaces (out of the many owned by King Henry VIII) that have survived to this day. 

3. Tower of London

The Tower of London, worth approximately $1.1 billion, has a history that dates back to the late 11th century after it was built by William the Conqueror. Since then, it has become best associated as an execution site and is, most famously, the site of Anne Boleyn's death. 

Today, the castle is the home of Crown Jewels (worth an estimated $4 billion), including the coronation regalia and vestments worn by British monarchs. The site is also home to the 'Yeomen Warders; and their families, the Resident Governor, and a garrison of soldiers who patrol the site in uniform.

4. Windsor Castle

The final resting place of Queen Elizabeth II, Windsor Castle, is worth approximately £743 million, making it the fifth most expensive property on the list.

Windsor is the largest inhabited castle in the world, following its completion in the 11th century by William the Conqueror, the same monarch who built the Tower of London. The impressive estate has been home to 40 monarchs, including the late Queen, who counted it as one of her favorite residences.

Today the castle is still used as a residence for the royal family, despite many rooms being open to the public. It is expected to be the future home of Willam and Catherine, the Prince and Princess of Wales.

5. St James's Palace

Princess Anne's London home, St James's Palace, is worth an estimated $700 million, so what does that price tag include? 

Alongside its history (it was significantly the home of Elizabeth I during the defeat of the Spanish Armada in 1558), the palace has an enviable postcode in the heart of Westminster in the British capital. The property overlooks Green Park and St. James's Park, two of the eight royal parks in the capital held by the Crown, and is conveniently close to the Mall and Buckingham Palace. 

St James's Palace has gained ever-growing recognition in recent decades, as it was where representatives from 14 nations met to establish the United Nations. However, most recently, it was the setting of the ceremony in which King Charles III was officially proclaimed Britain's new sovereign on September 9th, 2022.

6. Lancaster Castle

Lancaster Castle (also known as John O’ Gaunt’s Castle) is described as an 'ancient inheritance' that began 750 years ago in 1265. The estate, which is worth $674, has had a diverse history, having served as a Roman fort, a Medevial place of punishment, and a prison. It was, however, converted into a tourist attraction in 2011. 

The castle overlooks the northern town of Lancaster and the River Lune, where it has famously stood as a 'bastion against the marauding forces of the ancient Picts and Scots tribes' for centuries. 

7. Kensington Palace

The Prince and Princess of Wales's historic family home, Kensington Palace, has an estimated worth of $630 million. 

While William and Catherine are expected to move into Windsor Castle (and they have recently set roots in Adelaide Cottage in Berkshire), the couple and their family are best associated with the palace that houses Apartment 1A, their London base. 

King Charles III also lived in the palace in Chelsea, London, with Diana, Princess of Wales, during their marriage. Lady Diana continued to live in the residence until her death in 1997, and she is remembered by a statue in the gardens.

8. Caernarfon Castle

Caernarfon Castle is the only estate outside of England to make the top 10. Located in  Gwynedd, Wales, the (estimated) $289 million property has towered above the port town since King Edward I ordered its construction in 1283. 

This UNESCO World Heritage Site, which sits on the banks of the River River Seiont, was where Charles was given the title of the 'Prince of Wales' in 1969, but we expect it will only be a matter of time before he visits the country's 'most famous castle' as King. 

9. Banqueting House

Back in London, the aptly-named Banqueting House is the ninth most expensive structure – worth an estimated  $296 million. This 'architectural genre of banqueting house' was designed as an elaborate entertaining space in the Palace of Whitehall, where monarchs lived between 1530 to 1698. 

English architect Inigo Jones designed the house in 1619, and today, it is the only surviving part of Whitehall Palace, following a large fire in 1698.

10. Eltham Palace

Eltham Palace in Eltham in southeast London is the tenth most expensive property in King Charles' property portfolio, with an estimated price tag of $211 million. The estate marries quintessential Tudor architecture with Art Deco decorating ideas after it served as a millionaire's home in the 1930s.

Though the home is now owned by the Crown, it had a period owned by Stephen and Virginia Courtauld, who were searching for a semi-rural property that was convenient for the capital. They took a 99-year lease from the Crown. The couple resided in the Eltham during most of the Second World War when they fitted out the basement as a comfortable bomb shelter. 

Since then, the Army Educational Corps and English Heritage (the most recent successor to the Ministry of Works) took over the home. Today, visitors can explore the restored 1930s-style home and learn more while learning more about Eltham's fascinating history. 

Everybody has certain quirks that set their mornings aside from the conventional, whether through a particular shower ritual or the unique way you take a coffee. For King Charles III, however, mornings begin in a way that is distinctly different from what you might expect. 

Every morning at 09:00 promptly, King Charles III is awoken by the sound of bagpipes – following a 179-year-old practice that began with Queen Victoria in 1843.

On the morning of October 24th, Pipe Major Paul Burns played for the first time at the Clarence House, the King's royal residence in London, but has played daily since his reign began last month.

He is the 17th piper to fulfil the duty and previously played for Queen Elizabeth before her death on September 8th, 2022.

Pipe Major Burns (videoed above) follows the monarch around the royal residences, including Windsor Castle and Highgrove House – depending on where the King is spending the night. Every morning, he ensures he is awoken by a daily performance that consists of two seven-minute sessions – separated by a minute in between to tune the Scottish instrument.

While the piper (who is an official member of the member of the Royal Household) acts as the King's alarm clock each morning, his jobs continue throughout the day. The BBC reports that he is also responsible for greeting people at official engagements before they meet the monarch. He also reportedly holds quarters at Buckingham Palace but travels to wherever the monarch is based before fulfilling his daily role.

Pipe Major Burns also gained global admiration last month after reciting the lament Sleep, Dearie, Sleep as the late Queen's coffin left Westminster Abbey at the end of her funeral service. The piper is the only non-royal permitted to wear Balmoral tartan, as seen in the footage.

Despite the daily performance, it is unknown how frequently the sounds of the traditional instrument are responsible for waking the King from his sleep. In the years before becoming King, the then-Prince of Wales suggested he liked to begin his royal duties before 09:00 in a number of newspaper profiles. It is, therefore, likely that King Charles is already awake to hear this part of his morning routine. 

In a break with tradition, King Charles III is not expected to make the move to Buckingham Palace, the seat of the British monarchy, despite his new role as Monarch. 

The decision was one of the first made by the king after his ascension, with the King and Queen consort instead choosing one of their smaller preferred royal residences as their primary dwelling. The decision is one of many steps taken by the king as he aims to continue the modernization of the monarchy in the 21st century, something that his mother, Elizabeth II began the process of as early as her coronation in 1952. 

A royal insider reported that the King did not believe the palace was 'fit for purpose in the modern world' with the monarch unable to see the palace as 'a viable future home.' 

The choice of Clarence House

While the new King and Queen Consort will divide their time between three properties, Clarence House has become a firm favorite and shall remain the primary residence for the couple as they assume their new duties. Having moved into the home in 2003, the four-story stucco-faced home has been a site of refuge for the couple for many years, hosting close family such as son Prince William before his marriage in 2011, and his brother Harry. 

Just a short walk away from the Palace, the Regency-era property itself was built in 1825 by James Nash for the Duke of Clarence, the property's namesake. Since its creation, the property has continued to pass down through the royal generations, once being the home of both Queen Victoria's mother, Princess Victoria of Saxe-Coburg-Saalfeld, and Queen Elizabeth II's mother. Interestingly, the home became the center of the Red Crosses' efforts during World War II, making it a stand-out piece of British history all-round.

King Charles' preference for the home is not a new phenomenon, however, with his Mother and Father, Prince Phillip, also wishing to remain in the home following Elizabeth II's succession in the 1950s. At that point, however, the pressure to follow tradition and make the move to Buckingham was much stronger and so the royal couple moved shortly after the coronation. 

The new King will also spend time at Windsor Castle and Sandringham House throughout the week, however, it is suspected that the couple will often slip away to their private residence Highgrove House, a property bought by the King in 1980 which has since been the home to many of his and Camilla's gardening exploits. 

The future of Buckingham Palace 

Although the new king has little interest in moving into the palace anytime soon, it will remain a key emblem of the monarchy and will be used for affairs of the state wherever practicable. 

What's more, with the royals not planning on moving to the home anytime soon, it is believed that more of the palace will soon be opened up to the public, expanding the existing tours into areas previously unseen by general visitors. 

Buckingham Palace is also currently undergoing mass renovations, the largest and most detailed since World War II involving a complete rework of wiring, pipes, and heating systems to bring the 319-year-old Palace up to modern standards. The work is not due to be complete until 2027, with the renovations costing the British Taxpayer approximately $423 million. 

One thing is for sure, this is the start of a very new era of the monarchy. 

While Windsor castle is often open to the public, it can be difficult to get in to see the astounding architecture. The chance to see inside Windsor Castle is a thrilling opportunity to get a glimpse into the long history of one of the world's most famous families.

Windsor Castle is one of the most famous royal residences in the Royal Collection Trust, with the castle being the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world. Founded in the eleventh century, Windsor castle is easily one of the world's best homes, and has been the home of over 40 monarchs and will be the new residence of Prince William and Princess Kate of Wales in the coming year. 

Here, we go inside Windsor castle to take a look at some of the impressive state rooms where the royals perform their state duties and relax away from the public eye. 

Inside Windsor Castle

The castle contains two types of apartments; the State apartments and the private residences, such as the suite Harry and Meghan requested and the rooms William and Kate will relocate to with their children. While it is rare to see inside the private residences, with only one single glimpse of the queen's private sitting room offered through a video call during the pandemic, the historical halls are really what makes the castle special. 

Fittingly for royalty, the walls of the castle look almost as if they have been taken from the pages of a fairytale. Intricate gold leaf and sculpted plaster decorate the walls and ceiling ideas throughout the castle, a clear sign of its astounding opulence and long history. 

The castles lighting ideas are no less impressive, of course, with numerous chandeliers hanging in hallways and ballrooms. 

The State Apartments were designed during the right of King Charles II and, while originally used for state officials and dignitaries, this section is now readily open to the public. 

The Grand Vestibule, found in the Upper Ward of the castle, is stuffed with ornate decorating ideas. The space marks the entrance to the rest of the state apartments and offers a masterclass in decorating with art with pieces selected from the royal's private collections used to adorn the space.

Some of the most notable inclusions are a selection of Prince Albert's most beloved Rubens. The Crown Prince was so enamored by the artist that one room in the castle, dedicated exclusively to the artist was affectionately renamed 'the Ruben room'.

The plaster fan ceiling of the Vestibule is one to shock and delight. Designed for King Charles II by Francis Bernasconi, the plasterwork is adorned with images of angels and foliage and is bound to be a source of audacious inspiration for commissioning decorative plasterwork. 

Bedroom ideas are nothing short of daring in the castle, with brilliant red room ideas found in the so-called King's Bed Chamber. The chamber itself showcases fantastical red damask paper which immediately speaks to the historical affluence of the Castle.

The bed itself is nothing short of show-stopping, with the frame crafted by French woodworker Georges Jacob in 1855. The bed was created first for a visit by Emperor Napoleon III and his wife, with their initials visible on the fabric of the footboard. 

The bedroom is not purely historical, however, with the marble chimneypiece originating from Buckingham House.

The Green Drawing Room can be found in the Castle's semi-state apartments but is closed to the public due to the fragile nature of the carpet and furniture after a fire in 1992.

The Green Drawing Room features some of the most spectacular carpet ideas in the Castle, with the beautiful Axminster carpet dating back to the Great Exhibition of 1851. It is one of the best-preserved examples of English manufacturing of the time and was installed during the reign of Queen Victoria. 

Easily one of the most historic rooms inside Windsor Castle is The Garter Throne Room – having played host to centuries of monarchs, knights, and ladies of the Order of the Garter.

This room has become infamous for its drapery and curtain ideas, with the large Guiltwood canopy framed with luxurious velvet hangings. The throne itself is another relatively new addition to the castle, having been made in 1953 for the late Queen Elizabeth IIs coronation. Accompanying is a large state portrait, painted by James Gunn, depicting the late monarch in her coronation robes. 

While it is typically the state dining room at Buckingham palace that hosts many of today's formal banquets, the dining room ideas inside Windsor Castle have seen their fair share of important events and figures. 

Originally used by King Charles II, the room once again displays aspirational painting ideas, with the immaculately painted ceiling depicting a banquet of the gods, featuring fruit, fowl, and fish. This incredible artwork is accompanied by wonderful wood-carved wall ideas.

St. Georges Hall is an eccentric 180-foot-long space, designed in a Gothic style with original military weapons and suits of armor displayed on the walls. 

This section of the castle was heavily damaged by the fires, meaning that much of the original 1820s plasterwork and painstakingly handcrafted art was lost. Much of what was destroyed, such as the original plaster ceiling complete with painted knights' shields and plaster beams, was delicately recreated to restore the hall to its former glory.

By far one of the largest rooms inside Windsor Castle, the Waterloo Chamber is dedicated to the British victory at the Battle of Waterloo (hence the name). 

The room's most stunning features include the elaborate wall paneling ideas and enclosed ceiling, designed to emulate the inside timbers of a great ship.

The carpets in the space are also nothing less than impressive, having been made to celebrate Queen Victoria's Golden Jubilee. The Indian carpet is said to be the largest seamless carpet in the world but it has not been without its issues. In 1992 when the fire destroyed vast swathes of the castle, it took over 50 soldiers to roll the immense floor covering to be moved to safety during the renovations. 

The Prince and Princess of Wales have inherited a quaint farmhouse aptly located in the southwestern county of Carmarthenshire, Wales. 

Named Llwynywermod Estate, the cottage was formally owned by King Charles III, who purchased the property on the outskirts of Myddfai 15 years ago. The lesser-known royal residence was often frequented by the King and his wife, Camilla, Queen Consort. However, it became home to the new Prince and Princess of Wales following the death of Queen Elizabeth II on September 8th. 

What was once a former model farm is now one of the world's best homes (owned by one of the most famous couples), but it is not William and Catherine's first property in Wales. 

The Prince and Princess had already spent three years living in Anglesey, north Wales, when William was stationed in the area as a search and rescue helicopter pilot for the RAF. The report from WalesOnline explains that the couple lived in the country between 2010 and 2013; however, since then, they have lived in Kensington Palace in London – and Adelaide Cottage (near Windsor Castle). 

Following the death of Queen Elizabeth II, King Charles III automatically became the reigning monarch – meaning Prince William and Catherine (formally the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge) gained the title of the Prince and Princess of Wales and the Duke and Duchess of Cornwall, who have control of the Duchy of Cornwall. 

As the owner of the Duchy of Cornwall, William has access to all forms of the Duchy Estate – including the Llwynywermod Estate.

The Duchy of Cornwall reportedly purchased the farmhouse for £1.2 million – a figure that includes the main house, along with three smaller cottages and a barn. Plus, despite its royal owner, some parts of the Llwynywermod Estate are used as vacation homes where you can become acquainted with traditional decorating ideas – from the slate-flagged kitchen to the oak shutters and cocooning built-in bookcases.  

WalesOnline report that King Charles and Camilla would often stay in the farmhouse around St David’s Day (the Feast of the patron saint of Wales) when the former Prince carried out official duties throughout Wales. Reports also suggest that Charles would attend church services on Sunday mornings and also opened the new village hall near Llwynywermod.

Notably, King also visited the estate in April 2021, following the death of his father, the Duke of Edinburgh. 

Beyond the farmhouse's interior, the royal couple and their children (and guests) can enjoy the proximity to mid-Wales and the Brecon Beacons – a mountain range in Wales. There is also a host of heritage sites, walking trails, and nature reserves close to the estate.

Llwynywermod Estate, Carmarthenshire, Wales, United Kingdom.

Windsor Castle has reopened to visitors today (September 29th 2022) for the first time under King Charles III's reign. 

The castle, in the English county of Berkshire, closed on September 8th, following the announcement of Queen Elizabeth II's death. Alongside a number of state apartments, the public can now visit the Queen's final resting place in the George VI Memorial Chapel. The site is also the burial place of the late Queen's parents, and of her husband, the Duke of Edinburgh – and visitors can see the marble ledger stone inscribed with their names during the tour.

As the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world, Windsor Castle is one of the most famous royal residences open to the public. The tour includes access to ceremonial rooms, historic state apartments, and drawing rooms that are frequented by royalty.

What can you see as a visitor in Windsor Castle?

As one of the world's best homes, many grand rooms are available to the public who visit Windsor Castle. These include the main State Apartments that are used today by the Royal Family, who host events for Heads of State from overseas. 

Perhaps the most impressive of these spaces is the aptly named Grand Reception Room which exhibits striking lighting ideas with its large chandeliers. The room also houses a large malachite urn that was gifted to Queen Victoria by Tsar Nicholas I in the nineteenth century. 

Other highlights include the series of historic rooms that were built for Charles II and his Queen, Catherine of Braganza. While these ornate spaces are open to the public now, they were once strictly regulated to ensure only the highest nobles had access to the Royal Family. 

Visitors can also access the Semi-State Rooms that were created for King George IV as private apartments. Key decorating ideas include furnishings by Morel & Seddon, who were the principal suppliers of furniture to the King during his refurbishment of the Castle. Many pieces also came from Carlton House (where George IV lived prior to Windsor). 

The Royal Collection Trust offers the opportunity to learn about the King's home decoration in the Green Drawing Room via an online trail. 

St George's Chapel, the final resting place of Queen Elizabeth II, sits on grounds of Windsor Castle. This Gothic structure has observed many historical events since its construction in 1475. Most recently, however, it was the site of a private burial service attended by King Charles III and the Royal Family. 

Admission to St George's Chapel is included within a ticket to Windsor. However, it may be better to pre-book to guarantee entry over busy periods such as this, where thousands are expected to pay their respects to the late Queen. 

The Chapel is closed to the public on Sunday when it is only open to worshippers. You can book tickets through the Royal Collection Trust. 

Windsor Castle, Windsor, SL4 1NJ, England.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex didn't get their first choice of accommodation when they lived in the United Kingdom after their 2018 marriage, a new book released by a royal author claims. After requesting a private suite in Windsor Castle, the couple was gifted Frogmore Cottage instead. 

It is a well-known fact that the royal residences hold great significance to many members of the royal family. The senior royals live in historic homes across the country, with Prince William recently moving into Adelaide Cottage in Windsor close to Windsor Castle with his family as he takes up his new position as the Prince of Wales. 

But The New Royals, written by Katie Nicholl, reveals that Harry and Meghan were not given the residence they initially requested and that the home has been an issue of contention ever since. 

The royal author has revealed that the Duke and Duchess were initially hoping for ‘a suite of apartments at Windsor Castle’, but were denied this by the late Queen Elizabeth II who instead provided the couple with Frogmore Cottage. 

The cottage was seen as a generous gift to the young couple despite the then-newlyweds desire for the Windsor Suites, the book reveals, with the late monarch hoping they would respect her decision. 

The Duke and Duchess retain ownership of the cottage to this day, despite relocating to the United States in 2020 after stepping back as senior royals. The cottage was renovated for the couple shortly after it was gifted to them in 2019, costing £2.4 million and involving months of extensive renovation to turn the original 10 bedroom staff accommodation back into a five-bedroom family home.

Frogmore Cottage sits in the grounds of Frogmore House, a much grander retreat once favored by Queen Victoria.

Situated approximately half a mile away from Windsor Castle it has been a royal home since 1792. The home is now largely open to the public, but, the estate is closed to celebrate royal events such as Harry and Meghan's wedding reception and for hosting grand state events. 

For the late Queen to gift the smaller of the Frogmore properties to the Duke and Duchess was significant, however, according to close sources. ‘The cottage was a big deal,’ the late Queen's cousin Lady Elizabeth Anson told book author Nicholl (according to the Daily Mail). ‘The Queen's entrance into the gardens is right next to their cottage. It is essentially her backyard, her solitude, and her privacy. She was giving that up in gifting Harry and Meghan Frogmore Cottage. We all thought it was very big of her. She said, “I hope they'll respect it.”‘

The cottage, although not their first choice, held special significance to the couple too, with their engagement photos having been taken in the grounds surrounding the home. 

Windsor Castle has been a royal home for over 900 years and was a firm favorite of the late Queen. The home is not only a working palace and center of many formal royal duties but also a private home where she usually spent her weekends and the Easter period – a tradition expected to be upheld by the new King Charles III. 

The palace is the largest working inhabitable palace in the world, with around 1,000 rooms, so it may be understandable why Harry and Meghan were initially so adamant about converting some of the rooms into a private suite. 

It is thought that the request was denied formally due to the unsuitability of the flat for a growing young family. 

The Duke and Duchess now spend the majority of their time in the US at their family home in sunny California however they spent significant time at Meghan Markle's former Los Angeles house as a single couple.

The Sussexes now reside in a private gated mansion in Montecito, Santa Barbara, with Frogmore Cottage kindly lent to Princess Eugenie and her husband in their absence.

St James's Palace recently made headlines as the setting of the ceremony in which King Charles III was officially proclaimed Britain's new sovereign. On the day following the death of Queen Elizabeth II on 8 September 2022, Charles visited the Palace in Westminster, London, where the world watched him become King. 

However, while St James's Palace may have re-entered the news in recent weeks, this estate has maintained centuries of significance. It is known as 'the most senior palace in the United Kingdom' – and one of the most potent royal residences in the country. 

The Tudor structure, completed in 1536, has housed a host of royals over the centuries – including Anne, Princess Royal, who currently uses it as her London base. 

Does anyone live in St James palace?

St. James' Palace is Princess Anne's official London residence, which she frequents when she is in the British capital for engagements. When she isn't in London, the Princess lives in Gatcombe Park, her country residence near the village of Minchinhampton in Gloucestershire, England. 

Like St. James' Palace, Gatcombe Park is one of the most regal estates in the United Kingdom (and one of the world's best homes) – spanning over 730 acres of the South Western countryside.  

Up until fall 2017, Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie shared an apartment inside St. James' Palace. Little is known about the apartment's layout and decorating ideas – but it is believed that their apartment was four floors high and had four bedrooms. 

The State Apartments also host around 100 receptions each year. Most events are for charities associated with members of the senior Royal Family.

Did Henry VIII live at St. James's Palace?

Following its completion in 1536 (on the site of a leper hospital), St James's Palace became Henry VIII's favored residence during his marriage to Anne Boleyn. At this time, the Palace was secondary in importance (after the Palace of Whitehall) amongst many Tudor and Stuart monarchs.

In more recent history, (in 1941) the United Kingdom met with representatives from 13 other nations to sign the Declaration of St James's Palace. This was the first of six treaties that established the United Nations – and led to the composition of the Charter of the United Nations.

Today, St James's remains a working palace while acting as the London base for Princess Anne and Princess Alexandra, The Honourable Lady Ogilvy (a first cousin of the late Queen Elizabeth II).

Can the public visit St. James palace?

Officially, St James's Palace is not open to the public. However, you can visit the Chapel Royal and Queen's Chapel on particular Sundays of the year by attending a church service.

You can also visit other royal residences including Windsor Castle where the Prince and Princess of Wales will reside, and Kensington Palace – the former home of Princess Margaret and Diana, Princess of Wales. 

After the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II on 8 September 2022, Buckingham Palace announced that the longest-reigning monarch in British history would be laid to rest in St George’s Chapel at Windsor. After serving as the head of the royal family for 70 years, upon her death, her eldest son and heir apparent, Prince Charles, immediately ascended as King Charles III.

The Queen's funeral will take place on 19 September 2022, and the service will begin at 8 am (BST), when the doors of Westminster Abbey will open, culminating in a private service at 7.30 pm (BST) at the King George VI Memorial Chapel.

The history of St George’s Chapel

Construction of St George’s Chapel, Windsor, was begun in 1475 by Edward IV. It is one of the most remarkable late Gothic ecclesiastical buildings in Britain – perhaps in Europe. It certainly ranks with iconic national buildings such as King’s College, Cambridge, and Westminster Abbey. In St George’s Chapel and its rituals, the past and present meet on a daily basis, reinforcing a very British sense of history. 

The Chapel is an integral part of the great Windsor Castle complex, which dominates the skyline above the town of Windsor and is today an important part of our image of nation and monarchy. The Chapel is a “chapel” really only in name. It is more like a small cathedral in its elegance and the sumptuousness of its furnishings.

Windsor Castle has been important to the monarchy since the time of the conqueror, as William I hunted the district eagerly. Edward III was actually born in the castle and styled himself as “of Windsor”, helping to establish it as a favorite royal residence of the royal family. Charles II added extensive and stately apartments after the Restoration of the monarchy, although the character of the castle was later transformed back to a more romantic medieval form and outline under George IV (formerly the Prince Regent), with the architect Sir Jeffry Wyatville, in the 1820s, which included raising the famous round tower by 30ft.

Where is St George’s Chapel?

St George’s Chapel is located on the ground of Windsor Castle, one of the Queen's many beloved homes, in Berkshire.

The castle is considered to have some of the finest examples of defensive, domestic, and religious architecture through the centuries, and the huge 15th-century St George’s Chapel, the castle’s place of worship, is considered a highlight of English Perpendicular Gothic design. It is also the burial place of many past kings, including amongst many others Henry VIII and Charles I.

The castle is by all definitions a working palace, with even St George’s Chapel being used for daily services.

Who is in the royal vault at St George's Chapel?

St George’s Chapel gradually became, in effect, a great royal mausoleum. It houses the tombs of 10 monarchs: King Edward IV and his wife, Elizabeth Woodville; King Henry VI; King Henry VIII and his third wife, Jane Seymour; King Charles I; King George III; King George IV; King William IV; King Edward VII and his wife, Alexandra of Denmark; King George V and his wife, Mary of Teck; and King George VI. 

The Queen Mother and Princess Margaret are also buried here and the Queen will be buried alongside them. She will later be joined by her late husband Prince Philip, whose body will be removed from the Royal Vault to be laid next to Her Majesty.

St. George’s Chapel has also, in the past, been a preferred site for royal family celebrations – including many weddings and christenings.

Can the public visit St George’s Chapel?

St George’s Chapel is open to the public, however, Windsor Castle is a working palace and may be subject to full or partial closure. 

Visitors are reminded that St George's Chapel is a place of worship.  At least three services take place in the chapel every day, and worshippers are welcome to attend freely. On Sunday the Chapel is closed to visitors – all are welcome to attend services.

The death of Queen Elizabeth II on 8 September 2022 marked a significant shift in the British royal family. Her son, Charles III, became King of the United Kingdom –meaning his eldest son, William, ascended to the position of the Prince of Wales. 

The former Duke of Cambridge and his wife, Catherine (formally the Duchess of Cambridge, now the Princess of Wales), recently made headlines following their move to Adelaide Cottage in Berkshire – near Windsor Castle – the famous royal residence that belonged to the late Her Majesty. However, despite moving to the country, William and Catherine are expected to keep their most recent residence, Apartment 1A at Kensington Palace.

Where is Kensington Palace?

Kensington Palace is located in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea in London, England. The estate is one of the grandest in the British capital and is one of the world's best homes – featuring 107 hectares of garden and a mansion with a rich royal history. 

What is Kensington Palace famous for?

The royal residence is best known as the official home of William and Catherine, the Prince and Princess of Wales. However, it has housed other notable royals since its completion by Sir George Coppin in 1605. Queen Victoria enjoyed the palace's regal decorating ideas at the start of her life (when she was Princess Alexandrina Victoria), and she was baptized in the Cupola Room (pictured above).

In recent history, Princess Margaret, the Countess of Snowdon (Queen Elizabeth II's sister), and her husband, the Earl of Snowdon, moved into Apartment 10 before undergoing a large renovation in the early 1960s.

The Prince of Wales (now King Charles III) and his wife, Diana, Princess of Wales, also lived in Kensington Palace during their marriage. It remained Diana's official residence following their divorce until her death in 1997. There is a statue of Princess  Diana in the palace gardens. 

Prince William and Harry spent their childhood in the palace, which remains the official home of the Prince and Princess of Wales and their children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis.

Is Kensington Palace open to public?

Yes, the State Rooms are open to the public, but there are some offices and accommodation areas that remain private for the family.

The palace exhibits a host of paintings and other objects from the Royal Collection that are displayed to visitors. 

Beyond the State Rooms, Princess Catherine commissioned designer Ben Pentreath to decorate their apartment in 2017. The London-based designer, admired for quintessential yet playful home decor ideas, had already worked with Charles on the Duchy of Cornwall estate and the Royal Pavilion in Poundbury in Dorchester. His clientele also includes actresses Sarah Jessica Parker and Liv Tyler. 

Who lives in Kensington Palace now?

The Prince and Princess of Wales will likely keep their apartment in Kensington Palace, despite moving to the Berkshire town of Windsor in southeast England.

You can visit Kensington Palace at Kensington Gardens, London W8 4PX. 

The Prince and Princess of Wales are expected to move into the late Her Majesty The Queen's Windsor Castle home, taking on new roles with their change in status and seniority after the recent death of HM Queen Elizabeth II.

It was a bestowment we knew was coming: On the day of Queen Elizabeth’s passing, Prince William and Kate Middleton changed their social media bios from 'The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Cornwall' to 'The Prince and Princess of Wales', inferring that a transfer of titles from Charles to William had already begun to take place.

In a recent television address to the nation, King Charles III also confirmed that his son 'will undertake the responsibilities of the Duchy of Cornwall.' The Duchy of Cornwall is a working 150,000-acre estate in England complete with its own organic food company – and a multimillion-dollar income. The revenue from the Duchy pays for much of the private expenses of the royal family, including wardrobes and extra security.

Where is Windsor Castle?

Windsor Castle is a royal residence at Windsor in the English county of Berkshire. Unsurprisingly, Windsor Castle is one of the world's best homes and is surrounded by magnificent gardens and parklands, much of which can be accessed by the public.

What is the history of Windsor Castle?

Windsor Castle is the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world. It was built in the 11th Century by William the Conqueror and took 16 years to complete. Since the reign of Henry I (1100–1135), it has been home to 40 monarchs, including our late HM Queen Elizabeth II, who counted it among one of her favorite royal residences.

Whilst the castle was originally meant to serve as a defensive structure, its prime location next to a hunting ground attracted King Henry I, who began using it as a residence, and it has been lived in by every monarch since then. 

By modern times the castle had become so inextricably linked with the royal family that when during the First World War George V decided to change the family name from Saxe-Coburg and Gotha (acquired when Victoria married the German prince Albert) to something more British, the name he chose was Windsor.

Over its lengthy history, the Castle has undergone extensive renovations, including restoration work after a fire broke out in 1992, mostly paid for using the proceeds made by opening the castle and Buckingham Palace up to the public. The areas that were most badly damaged, such as St George’s Hall, were redesigned in a modern gothic style, while the other parts were restored to the condition in which George IV had left them.

Windsor Castle occupies 13 acres and hosts over a million visitors a year. It’s also the resting place of many deceased monarchs and royal family members, including Henry VIII, his third and favorite wife Jane Seymour, Princess Margaret, and the Queen Mother, who passed away in 2002.

Who lives in Windsor Castle now?

Today the castle is still used as a residence for the royal family, and it will be the future home of the Prince and Princess of Wales. HM Queen Elizabeth II spent many of her private weekends there – she is believed to have preferred it to Buckingham Palace – and chose to reside here officially over the Easter period. 

The castle is by all definitions a working palace, with even St George’s Chapel being used for daily services. Windsor also plays host to important guests, which can include political leaders as well as heads of Commonwealth nations

Will the Prince and Princess of Wales live in Windsor Castle?

It is believed that the Prince and Princess of Wales will delay moving into Windsor Castle in order to avoid more upheaval for their children after moving house just a week ago, according to royal sources.

The royal couple had hoped to bring a semblance of normality to their three children’s lives by living in the four-bedroomed Adelaide Cottage on the Windsor estate, and carrying out daily school runs to Lambrook School, an independent preparatory school.

The Prince and Princess of Wales are said to be highly aware their youngsters have experienced a house move, starting a new school, and the death of their ‘Gan-Gan’ in only a matter of a week.

As anglophiles around the world mourn the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, you may be left wondering where does His Majesty The King and the rest of the royal family actually live? 

Unsurprisingly, their homes are some of the world's best homes, and many members of the firm have more than one palatial residence that they call home. 

11 royal homes – where do the Royal family live?

From lesser-known private houses to the most famous of Crown-owned castles, H&G takes a look at the top Royal residences around the UK, from Buckingham Palace to Balmoral, to Frogmore and Kensington Palace.

1. Buckingham Palace, London

Formally the home of Queen Elizabeth II during her reign, King Charles III and his Queen Consort will reside in private quarters at the famous 775-room Buckingham Palace in London. 

In the heart of the capital, Buckingham Palace has been the official London residence of the British sovereign since 1837, and it the most notable of all the royal residences. Queen Victoria was the first monarch to settle in the 775-room palace. She introduced a large room which was, at the time of construction in 1853-5, the largest room in London.

The impressive 40-acre garden sets the scene for many summer garden parties and the palace itself is home to the private offices and apartments for other working royals.

2. Balmoral Castle, Aberdeenshire

Balmoral Castle was the Scottish home of the Queen Elizabeth II, and it is in this very home that she passed away on 8 September 2022. The private residence, originally purchased by Queen Victoria, reportedly sits on 50,000 acres with 150 total buildings.

The majestic architecture is typical of the Scottish Baronial period. Before her death, it was used as the private residence of the Queen and her family.

The home largely remains unchanged since the home was purchased by Prince Albert for Queen Victoria in 1852. The castle sits on the 20,000-hectacre Balmoral estate in Royal Deeside.

3. Sandringham House, Norfolk 

The beautiful Sandringham House in Norfolk is the much-loved country retreat of the monarch. It has been the private home of British monarchs since 1862 and in that time it has seen the lives, and indeed deaths of many a royal family. 

At Christmastime, the Queen, and other members of the royal family famously headed to Sandringham estate in Norfolk, which Elizabeth inherited from her father, George VI. Locals can often see the family making their way to church on Christmas morning. It remains to be seen if this tradition will be carried out now she has passed.

4. Windsor Castle, Berkshire

Windsor Castle is the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world. This spectacular home has been the family home of British kings and queens for almost 1,000 years.

The castle was established by William the Conqueror who began building at Windsor around 1070. It took 16 years to complete. 

The Queen spent most of her private weekends at Windsor Castle and would take up official residence for a month in the spring for Easter Court, and for a week each June, when she attended Royal Ascot and the service of the Order of the Garter. We expect the King to do the same. 

5. Clarence House, London

Clarence House, which stands beside St James's Palace, was built between 1825 and 1827 to the designs of John Nash for Prince William Henry, Duke of Clarence, and his wife Adelaide. Before HM The King's accession, Clarence House was the official London residence of The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall (titles now bestowed on the former Duke and Duchess of Cambridge), and was the location for many state visits.

The arrangement of the rooms remain recognizably as they were in Queen Elizabeth's time, with much of Her Majesty's collection of works of art and furniture in their former positions. The stucco-fronted abode was formerly the London home of the Queen Mother until her death in 2002. 

6. St James’s Palace, London

Built by Henry VIII in Westminster between 1531 and 1536, St. James's Palace has been the setting for some of the most important events in Royal history, having been a residence of Kings and Queens for over 300 years until the reign of Queen Victoria. 

The Chapel Royal saw the marriages of George III and Queen Charlotte; Victoria and Albert; and George V and Queen Mary. The last sovereign to live in the Palace was William IV until his death in 1837. 

Family occasions have also been held at t James's Palace over the years, most recently the christening of Prince George in 2013.

7. Kensington Palace, London

The glorious Kensington Palace was bought in its former incarnation as Nottingham House by William III in 1689. The Jacobean mansion was later extended and improved by Sir Christopher Wren. Royal residents have occupied the palace since King William III and his wife Queen Mary II.

Today, Kensington Palace Apartment 1A is the home of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Cornwall (soon to be the Prince and Princess of Wales) and their three children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis. The State Rooms are open to the public and managed by the independent charity Historic Royal Palaces, a non-profit organization that does not receive public funds.

8. Frogmore Cottage, Windsor 

Not to be confused with Frogmore House, Frogmore Cottage is an exceptional Grade II listed royal retreat, located on the grounds of Windsor Castle. It was originally constructed between 1680 and 1684 and was a great favorite of the royals, especially Queen Victoria who admired the peace and tranquillity. For almost 20 years, Frogmore was the home of Queen Victoria's mother, The Duchess of Kent.

Today, the house is still owned by Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, who used £2.4m of taxpayer money to renovate the property, before paying it back in full in early 2020 when they moved to California.

9. Highgrove House, Gloucestershire

Highgrove House, the picturesque property in the idyllic Gloucestershire countryside, was the family residence of the King and Queen Consort before their imminent move to Buckingham Palace. 

The royal couple call Highgrove House their second home. The King has owned this house since 1980, and he previously spent weekends there with his first wife, the late Princess Diana, and their children, Princes William and Harry. 

The King indulges his love for gardening, and ensures his concern for the environment is apparent in the management of the property by using energy-saving solar garden lighting and energy-efficient bulbs, as as composting any kitchen waste.

As it is a private residence, Highgrove House itself is closed to the public. However, its extensive Royal Gardens are open for tours, including garden tours, champagne and afternoon tea.

10. Palace of Holyroodhouse, Edinburgh

The Palace of Holyroodhouse, commonly referred to as Holyrood Palace or Holyroodhouse, was the official residence of Queen Elizabeth II in Scotland.

The magnificent home has had an eventful history with members of royalty both living and staying intermittently. Interestingly, the palace was home to Mary Queen of Scots for most of her life.

Today, the Palace is a close focus for national celebrations and events in Scotland, most notably The Queen's ‘Holyrood Week’, which usually runs from the end of June to the beginning of July. Each year, The Queen has been known to entertain around 8,000 guests from all walks of Scottish life during Holyrood week.

11. Osborne House, Isle of Wight

While Osborne House is no longer occupied by the Royal family, this glorious seaside home, located in East Cowes, Isle of Wight, was once Queen Victoria's family home. The house was built between 1845 and 1851 for Queen Victoria and Prince Albert as a summer home and rural retreat. 

It is noted that Prince Albert designed the house himself in 1847, alongside architect and builder Thomas Cubitt, in the style of an Italian Renaissance palazzo.  Here, the royal couple  lived with their nine children overlooking the Solent and their private beach.

Known as Swiss Cottage, the house is open to the public for viewings.

Frogmore Cottage in Windsor is quite possibly the best known as the UK residence for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, where the couple will be residing over during their tour of Europe.

Frogmore Cottage was said to be one of the late Her Majesty The Queen's favorite royal residences and its occupants have been a source of great fascination over the years. Unsurprisingly, Frogmore Cottage is one of the world's best homes, and our adoration for the property is shared throughout the globe.

Where is Frogmore Cottage?

Frogmore House is an exceptional royal retreat in the grounds of Windsor Castle. It was originally constructed between 1680 and 1684 and was a great favorite of the royals, especially Queen Victoria who admired the peace and tranquillity. For almost 20 years, Frogmore was the home of Queen Victoria's mother, The Duchess of Kent. The cottage is currently leased to the Duke of Sussex.

Does Prince Harry own Frogmore cottage?

Today, the house is still owned by Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, who used £2.4m of taxpayer money to renovate the property. The news came in the wake of confirmation that the royal couple had signed a multi-million dollar contract with Netflix, and reports that they are no longer receiving funding from Prince Charles.

However, after the Duke and Duchess announced in January 2020 that they intended to step down as senior working members of the royal family and move to North America, they 'shared their wish to repay Sovereign Grant expenditure for the refurbishment of Frogmore Cottage.' The entire sum was reportedly settled in full by the Duke of Sussex in 2020. 

Following Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's move to Los Angeles in early 2020, Princess Eugenie and her husband Jack Brooksbank temporarily moved into the famous Windsor home. 

'Frogmore Cottage will continue to be the property of Her Majesty the Queen. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex will continue to use Frogmore Cottage – with the permission of Her Majesty The Queen – as their official residence as they continue to support the Monarchy,' according to the The Duke & Duchess of Sussex website.

How many bedrooms does Frogmore Cottage have?

Frogmore Cottage is a ten-bedroom house on the Windsor Estate. Before moving into the property in 2019, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle approved extensive renovations of the historic home. 

The cost was rather staggering, even though the couple mostly paid for fixtures and fittings out of their own pocket. Frogmore Cottage, which had previously been split up into sections for private offices, was returned to a single residence, and major works, including replacing floor joists, ceiling beams and, rewiring the electrical system, and installing new gas and water mains.

The home is also said to have a swimming pool, guest house and tennis court. 

Who is living at Frogmore Cottage?

It is understood at the time that the property remain the Sussexes' residence in the UK, but it is believed that they were delighted to open it up to Eugenie and Jack ahead of their first child's arrival next year.

In February 2022, it was announced that Prince Harry planned to renew the lease on the cottage, which would allow him to remain domiciled in the UK. In May 2022, it was reported that Harry's lease of the property had been renewed, while Princess Eugenie and Jack Brooksbank had moved out of the property to divide their time between London and Portugal.

The history of Frogmore Cottage

Frogmore Cottage was originally known as the Double Garden Cottage when it belonged belonged to Queen Charlotte, back in 1801. According to royal records, the home was built for £450 by a Mr Bowen. Queen Victoria's personal assistant Abdul Karim lived there, in 1897. It was later occupied by Russian royal the Grand Duchess Xenia Alexandrovna, during the 1920s.

Before the name was changed to Frogmore Cottage, Queen Victoria had breakfast there in 1875 and noted the 'immense number of little frogs' which she amusingly described in her diary as 'quite disgusting'.

Meghan Markle has a lot to celebrate! In addition to welcoming her daughter, Lilibet Diana  with husband Prince Harry earlier this year – she's also ringing in her 40th birthday, and this year, everyone can get in on her birthday celebrations. 

Last week, the Duchess of Sussex announced her newly-launched initiative 40x40, alongside actress Melissa McCarthy. And while the brand-new initiative is reason enough to raise our glasses – the two are helping women re-enter the workforce – there's also one other reason to celebrate. 

If you look close enough in the video, you'll notice that Markle also gives us a glimpse inside her morning routine, and more specifically, her favorite teacup. 

So, if you want to give your kitchen cabinets the royal touch, now's your chance. 

Meghan Markle's impeccably chic black and white handmade teacup and saucer set are handmade by the brand Burleigh. And, we've spotted a variety of these handmade ceramics sold individually at Harrods, including her two signature staples. 

5 Meghan Markle-approved pieces 

Whether you are looking to sip some tea outside in the best outdoor chairs or enjoy it indoors as you take in one of the best candles, we've found five must-have items; all of which will have you experiencing a morning routine inspired by the royal – no royal title required. 

1. Start with this breakfast tea set

2. Reach for this classic teapot

3. Add classic charm to afternoon tea

4. Opt for contemporary bowls

5. Frame your tablescapes to perfection

Thanks to a seminal 90s TV show or two, the Bel Air area of Los Angeles has become synonymous with dazzling residences, pristine pools and a taste for luxury – fast forward thirty years, and this home shows nothing has changed. 

Renowned as a neighbourhood crammed with some of the world's best homes, you could say this one is a house fit for a prince (fresh or otherwise) – but more accurately, it’s home to a financier, their young family, and a pretty impressive wine collection. 

Recently renovated by Evens Architects and redesigned by interiors guru Windsor Smith, the house has been shaped around the passions and hobbies of its owners, with spaces for eating, drinking and entertaining of paramount importance, and styled with nostalgic flair. 

From a statement dining area to a whole room dedicated to drinking wine, Smith took us on a tour of this sprawling LA home. 

Entrance Hall

A bit of spacial rejigging allowed Smith’s hallway ideas to go the distance. Moving the dining area from the hall into the seldom used living room ‘opened up the sightline and allowed for a wonderful wide center hall with direct views out to the yard,’ said Smith.

‘I’ve always loved walking into a center hall as a true living space. The piano resides here amongst clusters of eclectic seating and feels like a quaint boutique hotel lobby – perfect for pre-dinner cocktails or after dinner scotch! The colors are a Baltic gray and white and the perfect backdrop for their art collection which is also eclectic and fun.’

Dining Room

The dining room didn’t only get a new location, but an eye-catching new color scheme. 

‘The lapiz blue dining room presents a lovely custom-made table of industrial Parisian bases, and a beautiful book-matched pale arabescato marble top that we were taken by – when put together, it looks like a Michelangelo pencil drawing of an arm extended. [One of the client’s] eyes are the bluest eyes I’ve ever seen, and I knew this was the perfect place for her to reign over many dinner parties.’

Among the blue contributions to Smith’s dining room ideas are Schumacher silk velvet benches, and a Jamal’s Rugs carpet, not to mention the paintwork. 

‘The lacquered ceilings gave the space height, as it reflected the windows as if they were stacked. It gives you a sense you are underwater, looking up at the world above – it’s a pretty dreamy experience to be in that space. 

Kitchen & Family Room

A grey and white scheme makes an impact once again in the kitchen, where statuarietto marble is used across the work surfaces and even for one of the sinks, paired with cabinetry painted in Baltic Gray by Fine Paints of Europe, custom bar stools and unlacquered brass faucets by Michael Smith.

‘The back splashes are an aged mirror that bounces the light in a beautiful way, and the small white mosaic floor feels nostalgic like Pastis in New York in the early years,’ says Windsor Smith. 

The creative kitchen ideas don’t stop there – the space extends into a family room, connected by a deep arch that hides a practical secret. 

‘This double thick walkway houses a desk area, so mom duties are easy to manage while still in the center of the action.’

‘The blue family room is more relaxed… the mood is casual but refined. I prefer a mixture of chairs rather than a set for a more collected feeling.’ The chair selection is paired with a campaign-style table from Opus by Windsor Smith, and light fixtures by Suzanne Kasler for Visual Comfort. 

Powder Room

The powder room is where Smith’s use of marble really comes into its own. In this small but decadent space, panels of layered marble cover the walls. Stripes of black, grey and brown are arranged symmetrically on both the horizontal and vertical planes, giving the effect of walking into a hall of mirrors. The natural wonder is given an extra touch of luxury with brass faucets and a gold framed mirror. 

Library

‘I love this petite library,’ said Smith. ‘It’s proportions remind you that you are in the nostalgic part of Bel-Air with the Hotel Bel Air a stone’s throw away. The deep hunter green with a touch of gray was the perfect backdrop for [the client] who is both nostalgic and sentimental.’

Combining a study with a recreational library area and mini bar makes it a perfect room for both work and play. ‘The bar and original brick fireplace feel old Hollywood and [with the client] being a financier, it seemed appropriate. The reclaimed bronze chandelier from a turn-of-the-century bank was befitting!’

Swimming pool & pavilion

The home’s pool area is among its most enviable assets, and swimmers can enjoy the view from a set of pale grey upholstered sun loungers, sheltered by a monochrome pergola, held up by grand, classical-style columns. 

Head a little closer to the house, and you’ll find the main pavilion with more seating, an outdoor fireplace and a BBQ area, all flanked by stairs. 

‘The composition is truly inspired, and Janus et Cie furniture covered in Perennials was the perfect choice in its delicate nature for the beauty of these gardens,’ said Smith. ‘It has a more sophisticated feeling in contrast to the pool area, which is sportier.’ ‘I wanted to bring the brick of the exterior inside and give this room a more loft feel,’ said Smith. ‘The bronze table was made with multiple varied height plateaus for books and collectibles. The black and white story was the perfect backdrop to the family’s photo collection. I chose the Urban Archeology sconces in repetition to illuminate the gallery wall.’ 

The seating area is flanked by the wine cellar on one side, and a bar at the other. ‘With libations at each end of the room, why ever leave?’ said Smith.  

Games room 

‘I wanted to bring the brick of the exterior inside and give this room a more loft feel,’ said Smith. ‘The bronze table was made with multiple varied height plateaus for books and collectibles. The black and white story was the perfect backdrop to the family’s photo collection. I chose the Urban Archeology sconces in repetition to illuminate the gallery wall.’ 

The seating area is flanked by the wine cellar on one side, and a bar at the other. ‘With libations at each end of the room, why ever leave?’ said Smith.  

Bar

This impressively sized home bar wouldn’t look out of place in, well, a real bar. Surrounded by reclaimed oak flooring, a long counter is made up of gloss black cabinetry, and houses drinks fridges, brass fittings and bar stools. Against the wall, a back bar supports an impressive bottle selection, displayed on brass shelving from Opus by Windsor Smith. 

Wine cellar

‘The wine cellar was built into the hillside at the end of a family room addition to the house,’ explained Smith. ‘[With the client] being a lover and collector of wine, it made it a shame to tuck in out of view – so just a few steps down we created a wine room. 

‘I had the doors made to temperature control the wine, and planted a custom brass and glass table, made to hold the room as a true dining space.’ 

The floor is made from a tumbled Belgian blue stone with white mortar, while the cabinets are closed with integral brass cremones. 

‘The chandelier was found [by the client] in her travels and has the most amazing ambient glow,’ added Smith. 

Living room 

In contrast to dramatic color schemes elsewhere in the home, Smith keeps it neutral and cozy with her living room ideas. The walls sport a woven, nature-inspired covering, with duck egg blue used on the ceiling coving to bring a spot of color into the largely neutral scheme.  A Directoire metal cabinet from France brings a flash of luxury, while squashy textured sofas signify a room meant for relaxation.

Bedroom

With double height ceilings, this bedroom was always going to be a majestic sleep space, but Smith’s scheme helps it become intimate and serene too. The Opus collection appears again among her bedroom ideas, this time supplying the contemporary pale blue sofa and the similarly curvaceous bed, which is draped with a Kravet mohair throw and flanked by Regency side tables. 

The Gabardine Brunswick wool curtains open out onto a similarly calming view. ‘The outside terrace is a beautiful lifestyle element – where better to have your morning’s first coffee?’ said Smith. 

Bathroom

Simplicity is the name of the game with Smith’s bathroom ideas here. A white freestanding tub is framed by the arched entrance and set below the window, while a white herringbone tiled floor in marble effect lends some gentle texture below. A grey half curtain on the window allows the bather a little extra privacy if needed, while a splash of color is lent by the blue contemporary chandelier. 

Architecture / Evens Architects

Interiors / Windsor Smith

Photography / Karyn Millet

After 73 years by the side of Queen Elizabeth II, Prince Phillip passed away last Friday, April 9th. Throughout his 99-year life, the Duke of Edinburgh created a lasting legacy in the Royal gardens of his beautiful estates across the UK – breaking national gardening records at Sandringham, becoming ‘master of the barbecue’ at Balmoral, and landscaping Windsor gardens. 

See: Backyard ideas – decor inspiration for outdoor spaces

The Duke was never shy of his green-fingered habits and had even vocalized his love for gardening in a letter to celebrity English gardener Alan Titchmarsh, The Express recently shared. 

From the famous evergreen lawns of Sandringham to the verdant grounds of his beloved Scottish summer home – these are some Royal gardens permanently shaped by Prince Phillip. 

Sandringham Estate gardens 

Admirers of the Royal family may already recognize Sandringham as the home where Queen Elizabeth II and the Duke of Edinburgh usually spent Christmas. However, the 20,000 acre Norfolk estate was also the setting of a record-breaking horticultural achievement for Prince Philip. 

According to The Times, he first attempted to grow black truffles in the garden in 2006, when he planted ‘300 £15 saplings’ in the grounds. After persevering for 12 years, and seeking help from truffle experts in Italy, the Duke ‘became the first person in Britain’ to achieve a fruitful Funghi harvest. 

The Royal garden at Balmoral Castle

While Sandringham acted as the backdrop to many Christmas celebrations, Balmoral was the setting for many royal family summer vacations. The Gothic Revival castle on the fringe of Loch Muick in Aberdeenshire, Scotland, was the setting of Prince Phillip’s kitchen garden and vegetable patch, and water garden, and a floral walkway that he planted many years ago. The Duke also designed a water garden among its sprawling 50,000 acres of surrounding land. 

Since this was Prince Philip’s summer home, it is unsurprising that the Duke would spend his evenings cooking on the BBQ in Balmoral’s gardens. In an interview with MarieClaire, Darren McGrady, who worked for the Royal family throughout the ‘80s and early ‘90s, shared that ‘Philip would cookout on the grill’ while the Queen picked strawberries with Princess Margaret. Following his death, Prince Harry also remembered his grandad’s barbecue skills, sharing:  

‘But to me, like many of you who have lost a loved one or grandparent over the pain of this past year, he was my grandpa: master of the barbecue, legend of banter, and cheeky right ‘til the end.’ 

See: Kitchen garden ideas - 10 easy ways to get started

Windsor Castle gardens 

Many of us sought solace in our gardens throughout the pandemic, and Prince Philip was certainly no exception. During the first four months of lockdown, the Duke returned to Windsor, to the gardens he designed in 1971. Prince Philip made his mark on the imperial estate over the ‘70s when he contributed to the landscaped garden redesign – planting over 3,500 rose bushes and adding a statement bronze water feature. 

How to plant roses – for a delightfully fragrant garden 

Prince Phillip’s funeral will take place at Windsor Castle tomorrow, April 17th, at 15:00 BST. His memory and legacy will continue to bloom in the Royal gardens he shaped throughout his life for many centuries to come.  

A number of ultra-elegant homes set on a stunning private estate in Windsor have gone up for sale.

Magna Carta Park is a collection of beautifully designed houses and apartments nestled within 57 acres of woodland, greenery and gardens, with access to a host of luxury amenities.

The Residences of Magna Carta Park have been thoughtfully designed by Julian Bicknell and showcase a timeless blend of classic and contemporary elegance.

SeeCecil Beaton's idyllic Reddish House is for sale - and it has an artistic heritage

They have taken classically elegant architecture inspired from the 17th century to the present day, combined with all the exceptional standards of Royalton Residences who, since 1999, have created some of the finest private homes in England.

The layout of each home has been arranged to provide residents with beautiful views overlooking the estate, that is surrounded by expanses of countryside and sweeping views over Windsor Castle and beyond.

There's varying houses on offer, including townhouses and apartments and features interior designed by celebrated designer Louise Bradley.

The finish is exceptional, with beautiful neutral tones peppered with botanical prints, stylish soft furnishings and high-end modern fixtures and fittings.

The kitchens are contemporary and inviting with modern finishes (think clean lines and metal pendant lights) while splashes of opulence are displayed elegantly in statement chandeliers in the living spaces and sweeping marble tiles in the bathrooms.

See6 key bathroom trends for autumn 2020, according to Victoria + Albert

Truly a place to experience life at its finest, residents have access to an extensive range of amenities, including three tennis courts, a golf practice facility, bespoke concierge, 24-hour security, spa, restaurant, bar, lounge, library and indoor swimming pool.

Just 30 minutes from London it's a private rural escape with the city in easy reach.

Closer to home, there's fashionable shopping in Windsor, to world-famous equestrian events at Guards Polo Club or Ascot: golf at Wentworth or Michelin-starred dining on the banks of the Thames.

The estate overlooks the town of Windsor, anchored on the horizon by its spectacular castle. Originally built by William the Conqueror in the 11th century and a royal residence to this day, it is the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world.

Homes start at £1,300,000 and are available via Savills.

See some highlights of the interiors below:

LIVING ROOM

TERRACE

HALLWAY

KITCHEN

BATHROOMS

BEDROOMS

SNUG

DRESSING ROOM

SeeThese are the UK's most popular paint colours for every room

Windsor Castle has topped a list of the most expensive UK homes to decorate - costing over £64 million to furnish, according to a study by online luxury homeware brand Olivia's.

Accommodating over 150 people, including the Queen, the castle is estimated to cost £64 million to furnish and decorate, followed by Hampton Court Palace which cost in excess of £57 million.

See: Bill and Melinda Gates’ new $43 million San Diego home will take your breath away

According to the brand’s data, this is nearly 4,400 times more than what the standard Brit spends, which is, on average, £14,650 on an entire three-bedroom family home.

With over 1,000 rooms, Windsor Castle tops the list of the most expensive properties to furnish, costing an estimated £64 million. Buckingham Palace also features on the list, with 775 rooms and costing nearly £50 million.

The five most expensive UK homes to furnish:

The brand considered different aspects of each property to discover which UK homes are the most expensive to furnish, including the age of a property, size, overall worth and the value of its possessions.

1. WINDSOR CASTLE – £64 MILLION

Windsor Castle is one of the biggest royal residencies in the world, with over 1,000 rooms. Along with her Majesty the Queen, the castle is home to more than 150 members of staff. Interior items often seen include oak cabinets designed circa 1783, gold candelabras and a selection of fine antique furniture dating back to the 18th and early-19th century, from armchairs to sofas.

2. HAMPTON COURT PALACE – £57.6 MILLION

Over 500 years old with more than 1,000 rooms, Hampton Court Palace was home to King Henry VIII. The palace interior consists mainly of Tudor and Georgian furnishings, including Jean Pelletier tables, original state beds and crystal chandeliers.

3. BUCKINGHAM PALACE – £49.6 MILLION

Buckingham Palace houses over 775 rooms with 240 bedrooms and 19 reception rooms. An official royal residence since 1761, the Palace still houses furniture from the 18th century and many rooms follow an ornate red, gold and green colour scheme.

4. SANDRINGHAM HOUSE – £43.2 MILLION

Located in Norfolk, Sandringham House is a private residence of the Royals. Dating back to Elizabethan times with renovations added by Queen Victoria, the house still today follows popular Edwardian interior design, with antique 19th century cabinets and tables scattered throughout the property.

5. HIGHCLERE CASTLE – £19.2 MILLION

Commonly known as the filming location for Downton Abbey, Highclere Castle was built in the Jacobethan style in 1679 and has over 200 rooms. The interiors mainly consist of Victorian furniture and antiques, but the castle also has more unique furnishings, such as leather walls in its Saloon room and a beautiful four-poster bed adorned with 18th century silk in its Mercia bedroom.

The brand also surveyed more than 3,000 UK homeowners to discover common interior and decorating spending habits, and found that the average Brit spends £14,650 decorating and furnishing an entire three-bedroom house.

According to the survey of UK homeowners, the most expensive room in a house to furnish is the living room, which costs on average £3,600. In comparison, the cheapest room to furnish is a bathroom, costing on average £650. On average it costs £1,831 to decorate and furnish a room in a typical British home. Permanent fixtures such as kitchen and bathroom units were not included in the survey.

The platform’s interiors expert, Sharmeen Shahid, has also put together a guide on what materials, colours and layout Brits should employ to achieve a luxurious and modern aesthetic.

Advice includes the use of inexpensive wood to create panel walls, adding depth to rooms, accessorising using high-quality fabrics such as velvet, and using mirrors throughout a home to maximise light and space.

Nick Moutter, founder of Olivia’s, said: 'Working with our team of experts, it was incredible to discover how much it would cost to decorate some of the most magnificent homes in the UK.

'It’s no surprise that two of the Queen’s residences, Windsor Castle and Buckingham Palace, are at the top of the list.

'It’s also fascinating to survey our own customers to discover how much money they spend on the interiors in their homes. I’m excited to share our data and release our royal furnishing guide to help homeowners give their own properties a luxury feel, similar to those on our list.'

View the top 10 list of the most expensive UK homes to furnish, along with the guide to luxury interiors at Olivias.com.

See: Five-minute gardening tips from the National Trust

If you're looking for a stunning new piece of statement furniture, hold off until early next year – as British furniture brand Ercol will re-launch its iconic Windsor Sideboard in January to mark the start of its 100th anniversary celebrations.

First launched in 1962, the 467 Sideboard was designed by the brand’s founder, Lucian R. Ercolani, as part of the successful Windsor Range.

See our news section for more expert interiors tips, product launches, and luxury travel and property updates

This collection of furniture defined the post-1945 era for Ercol and set the brand apart when it came to the production of domestic furniture.

During this period, most furniture was predominantly made with plywood or chipboard and heavily influenced by the fashions of the day.

The Windsor range by contrast was made from solid English Elm and designed to stand the test of time.

The 2020 Ercol Windsor Sideboard will reflect the design of the original 1962 version, but will be available in ercol’s current range of finishes.

Handcrafted by a team of skilled furniture makers in the company's award- winning Princes Risborough factory, the ercol Windsor Sideboard, an iconic piece of British design, will not only mark the start of a year of centenary celebrations but will be the first piece to feature the exclusive centenary logo. This logo will be featured on all products that were originally designed by Lucian, as well as collections that are launching in line with the anniversary throughout the Centenary year.

Edward Tadros, chairman at ercol, says: 'The Windsor Sideboard showcases many of ercol’s classic design hallmarks, from crafted dovetail joints to beautifully sculpted handles and turned legs, so it seemed like a natural choice for our 100th anniversary year.

'Despite the fact that it was designed more than 50 years ago, this practical piece of furniture is as relevant today as it was when Lucian first designed it.'

The 467 Windsor Sideboard will be previewed for the first time at the January Furniture Show in Birmingham (19-22 January 2020), and it will be available to buy in ercol stockists by March 2020.