Althorp Estate: Princess Diana’s Childhood Home and Final Resting Place


Nestled in Northamptonshire, England, Althorp Estate stands as a testament to over 500 years of the Spencer family’s history.

Under the stewardship of Charles Spencer, the 9th Earl, Althorp Estate remains a cherished cultural and historical landmark.

 

This stately home was also the childhood home of his sister, Princess Diana, before her marriage to Prince Charles.

The estate includes 90 rooms, of which 31 are bedrooms, and houses over 650 paintings, offering visitors a glimpse into its opulent past.

Architectural Heritage of Althorp

The main house at Althorp, a Grade I listed building, dates back to 1688 and replaced an earlier structure visited by King Charles I.

Adjacent to this historical gem is the mustard-yellow stable block, a striking example of Palladian design.

 

Crafted in the 1730s by architect Roger Morris, the stable block illustrates the evolution of architectural styles that Althorp has adopted through the centuries.

Extensive Art Collection

Althorp boasts an impressive collection of European artwork and architecture.

Its interiors are adorned with spectacular painted ceilings and two particularly noteworthy rooms: the Saloon and the Great Room.

These spaces display the Spencer family’s extensive art collection, accumulated over generations, featuring pieces from various artistic eras and styles.

 

Historic Furnishings

The estate is home to historically significant furnishings, including the Washington Chest—allegedly linked to the ancestors of George Washington, who were related to the Spencer family.

Another highlight is the Oak Bedroom, furnished with an oak bed and embroidered curtains that bear the Spencer family crest, reflecting the estate’s rich heritage and historical significance.

Rare Wildlife

Spread across 13,000 acres, Althorp’s grounds are a sanctuary for diverse wildlife.

 

Among the residents are the black fallows and red stags, thriving within the estate’s deer park.

Notably, in 2019, Althorp introduced the “Animals of Althorp” exhibition, highlighting the estate’s lesser-known animal inhabitants, including the resident peacock named Tim.

Public Tours at Althorp Estate

Althorp opens to the public each summer, offering guided tours that highlight its luxurious interiors and expansive grounds.

These tours provide insights into the historical significance of the estate and the legacy of the Spencer family, allowing visitors to explore key areas that hold cultural and historical importance.

Round Oval Lake

The Round Oval Lake is a tranquil spot on the Althorp estate, featuring a small island that serves as the burial site for Princess Diana.

This peaceful lake is surrounded by lush greenery, offering a serene retreat and a place of reflection for visitors.

The island itself, accessible only by boat, has become a poignant symbol of her legacy, drawing admirers from around the world to pay their respects in this quiet, beautiful setting.

The aerial view showcases the serene Oval Lake at Althorp, where Princess Diana’s island burial site rests, surrounded by lush greenery and meticulously maintained grounds by Charles Spencer.
Round Oval Lake of Althorp Estate  in Northampton
This memorial pavilion dedicated to Princess Diana stands as a poignant tribute within Althorp Estate, reflecting the love and respect the Spencer family holds for her memory.
Diana's memorial in Althorp Estate  in Northampton
The close-up of Princess Diana’s memorial pavilion highlights the years of her birth and passing, capturing the timeless legacy she left behind.
Diana's memorial in Althorp Estate  in Northampton
Flowers adorn a bench at Diana’s memorial, symbolizing the continuous flow of tributes from admirers and loved ones who visit Althorp to honor her memory.
Diana's memorial in Althorp Estate  in Northampton
Ducks swim peacefully in the lake near Princess Diana’s memorial, showcasing the tranquil beauty and wildlife that thrives within the picturesque landscape of Althorp Estate.
Round Oval Lake of Althorp Estate  in Northampton

The Deer Park

The Deer Park at Althorp Estate is a notable and expansive feature of the property, contributing significantly to its natural beauty and ecological diversity.

A majestic stag stands proudly among the trees, showcasing the serene beauty of Althorp’s Deer Park, part of the expansive 13,000-acre estate.
Deer Park of Althorp Estate  in Northampton
Deer graze peacefully by the water’s edge, illustrating the rich wildlife that thrives within the historic grounds of Althorp, once the beloved childhood home of Princess Diana.
Deer Park of Althorp Estate  in Northampton
A picturesque pathway through a canopy of ancient trees highlights the natural splendor and tranquility found throughout the Althorp Estate, carefully preserved by the Spencer family for generations.
Deer Park of Althorp Estate  in Northampton
Deer Park of Althorp Estate  in Northampton
Vibrant bluebells surround a gnarled tree stump, adding a touch of natural artistry to the scenic beauty of Althorp Estate’s meticulously maintained gardens.
Deer Park of Althorp Estate  in Northampton
Deer Park of Althorp Estate  in Northampton
Deer Park of Althorp Estate  in Northampton
Two geese wander under a tree, representing the diverse birdlife that inhabits the idyllic landscape of Althorp, a sanctuary cherished by its owners for centuries.
Deer Park of Althorp Estate  in Northampton

Althorp Chapel

The Althorp Chapel, an integral part of the estate, is used for family services and possesses significant historical and architectural value.

Its prominent spire, a landmark against the rural backdrop, offers a tranquil space for reflection and worship for both the estate’s residents and visitors.
Chapel of Althorp Estate  in Northampton
Inside the chapel, a beautifully adorned tomb captures the reverence and respect held for those interred, emphasizing the estate’s historical and spiritual significance.
Chapel of Althorp Estate  in Northampton
A detailed view of a knight’s effigy within the chapel highlights the intricate craftsmanship and historical importance of the memorials found on the estate.
Chapel of Althorp Estate  in Northampton

Stable Block

Daffodils bloom in the foreground of the grand stable block at Althorp Estate, illustrating the Spencer family’s dedication to maintaining the estate’s natural beauty and historical charm.
Stable Block of Althorp Estate  in Northampton
The stable block at Althorp Estate stands surrounded by lush greenery, reflecting the Spencer family’s commitment to preserving both the architectural and natural heritage of their ancestral home.
Stable Block of Althorp Estate  in Northampton
A long, tree-lined driveway leads to Althorp Estate, offering a picturesque approach that emphasizes the grand scale and serene environment cherished by the Spencer family.
Stable Block of Althorp Estate  in Northampton

Gardener’s Cottage

The Gardener’s Cottage at Althorp is a round and charming building used by the estate’s gardening staff.

It showcases historical stonework that reflects the Spencer family’s appreciation for unique architectural features.
Gardener’s Cottage of Althorp Estate  in Northampton
An old, ivy-covered archway at Althorp Estate adds a sense of mystery and history to the gardens, illustrating the Spencer family’s dedication to preserving every element of their historic property.
Archway of Althorp Estate  in Northampton
A scenic view of Althorp’s formal gardens features stately stone balustrades and manicured lawns, exemplifying the Spencer family’s commitment to maintaining the estate’s elegance and historical significance. ​​
Garden of Althorp Estate  in Northampton

Dairy Cottage

Once used for dairy production, this quaint building adds to the historical tapestry of the estate.
Dairy Cottage of Althorp Estate  in Northampton

More Photos of the Estate

Sun illuminates the grand entrance, leading visitors into the heart of Althorp Estate, where 90 rooms and a wealth of historical treasures await exploration.
Entrance of Althorp Estate  in Northampton
This grand entrance of Althorp Estate welcomes visitors with its stately architecture and lush greenery, a testament to the elegance and history of the Spencer family’s ancestral home.
Entrance of Althorp Estate  in Northampton
The grand aerial view of Althorp House showcases its extensive grounds, meticulously maintained and reflecting the grandeur and historical significance of the Spencer family’s ancestral home.
Aerial View of Althorp Estate  in Northampton
Front View of Althorp Estate  in Northampton
This detailed facade of Althorp House stands proudly, showcasing its classical architecture and the rich history that spans over 500 years of the Spencer family’s legacy.
Front View of Althorp Estate  in Northampton
Elegant topiaries frame the entrance to Althorp House, adding a touch of refined greenery to the historic estate, meticulously maintained by the Spencer family
Front View of Althorp Estate  in Northampton
The rear view of Althorp House captures its extensive and well-preserved Georgian architecture, a testament to the estate’s historical and cultural significance.
Rear View of Althorp Estate  in Northampton
A golden glow bathes Althorp House, highlighting its stately grandeur and the timeless beauty of the Spencer family’s ancestral home.
Rear View of Althorp Estate  in Northampton
Rear View of Althorp Estate  in Northampton
Rear View of Althorp Estate  in Northampton
A side view of Althorp House reveals its intricate architectural details and the harmonious integration of the estate’s historic and natural elements.
Side View of Althorp Estate  in Northampton
Daffodils bloom in front of Althorp House, adding vibrant color to the picturesque setting, and embodying the natural beauty and historical elegance of the estate.
Side View of Althorp Estate  in Northampton
The sprawling lawns and stately facade of Althorp House create a picturesque view, with deer grazing peacefully in the foreground, embodying the natural beauty and heritage of Princess Diana’s childhood home.
Side View of Althorp Estate  in Northampton
An archway frames the pathway leading to Althorp House, offering a glimpse into the serene and majestic landscape that has been cherished by the Spencer family for generations.
Pathway of Althorp Estate  in Northampton
Althorp’s staircase features a grand display of historical portraits that emphasize the estate’s rich heritage and elegance, beautifully framed by intricate woodwork and plush carpeting.
Staircase in Althorp Estate  in Northampton
The gallery view of Althorp showcases a magnificent collection of art, with walls adorned by regal portraits and opulent chandeliers adding a touch of grandeur to the expansive space.
Staircase in Althorp Estate  in Northampton
Beautiful hydrangeas in a clear vase create a fresh and inviting atmosphere on the stairway, adding a touch of natural elegance to the stately portraits that line the walls.
Staircase in Althorp Estate in Northampton
The long gallery at Althorp is a testament to the estate’s dedication to preserving history, with floor-to-ceiling portraits and luxurious seating that invite admiration and reflection.
Long Gallery in Althorp Estate  in Northampton
A cozy fireplace in Althorp’s library brings warmth and comfort, surrounded by classic portraits and richly detailed furnishings that reflect the estate’s timeless charm.
Fireplace in Althorp Estate  in Northampton
The collection of royal portraits in Althorp’s gallery speaks volumes about the estate’s storied past, featuring elegantly framed artworks that capture the essence of aristocratic life.
Long Gallery in Althorp Estate  in Northampton
In the sitting room, a charming fireplace is adorned with beautiful artwork and elegant furniture, offering a perfect blend of comfort and sophistication reminiscent of the estate’s history.
Long Gallery in Althorp Estate  in Northampton
The stately hallway at Althorp showcases an impressive array of busts and portraits, each piece telling its own story within the grand archways and marble pillars of this historical estate.
Hallway in Althorp Estate  in Northampton
Another view of the hallway emphasizes the serene and contemplative atmosphere created by the busts and portraits, inviting guests to pause and appreciate the estate’s artistic treasures.
Hallway in Althorp Estate  in Northampton
The ornate ceiling at Althorp Estate features intricate plasterwork and a grand chandelier, reflecting centuries of craftsmanship and the Spencer family’s dedication to preserving their home’s historical beauty.
Ceiling of Althorp Estate  in Northampton
Stunning murals and a gilded chandelier dominate the room, showcasing Althorp’s rich history and the Spencer family’s passion for art and elegant interior design.
Ceiling of Althorp Estate  in Northampton

The towering Christmas tree and historic portraits create a festive atmosphere, showing the Spencer family’s commitment to celebrating traditions in their stately home.
Living Space in Althorp Estate  in Northampton
Living Space in Althorp Estate  in Northampton
This grand fireplace, surrounded by historical portraits, offers a warm and inviting setting, reflecting the Spencer family’s blend of historical significance and cozy living spaces.
Living Space in Althorp Estate  in Northampton
Living Space in Althorp Estate  in Northampton
The dining room, adorned with antique china and floral arrangements, exudes a timeless charm, illustrating the Spencer family’s attention to detail and appreciation for elegant dining experiences.
Dining Space in Althorp Estate  in Northampton
This cozy nook, with its luxurious chair and unique artwork, offers a quiet retreat within Althorp, showcasing the Spencer family’s blend of traditional and modern artistic tastes.
Nook in Althorp Estate  in Northampton
The lavish dining room, with its grand portrait and elegant floral arrangement, showcases the Spencer family’s commitment to hosting in style and maintaining Althorp’s historical splendor.
Dining Space in Althorp Estate  in Northampton
Intricate architectural details and sumptuous furnishings in this bedroom reflect the grandeur of Althorp Estate, offering a glimpse into the luxurious lifestyle of the Spencer family.
Bedroom in Althorp Estate  in Northampton
A beautifully upholstered chair and ornate sofa create an inviting sitting area, emphasizing the Spencer family’s blend of comfort and sophisticated decor in their stately home. ​​
Chair in Althorp Estate  in Northampton 

Exquisite Art Collection

This poignant bronze statue, titled “Slegte Nuus” captures a moment of hardship and camaraderie, reflecting the Spencer family’s appreciation for art that evokes strong historical and emotional connections.
Slegte Nuus in Althorp Estate  in Northampton
The intricately designed brass fixture, bearing the family crest, reflects the estate’s rich heritage and long-standing tradition of nobility and service.
Brass Fixture in Althorp Estate  in Northampton
Artwork in Althorp Estate  in Northampton
This marble bust of a distinguished figure, set against a classic painting, adds a touch of historical significance and scholarly reverence to the collection.
Artwork in Althorp Estate  in Northampton
A hallway featuring elegant busts and a framed portrait, along with a regal white cat, showcases the harmonious blend of art, history, and everyday life at Althorp.
Artwork in Althorp Estate  in Northampton
An opulent golden clock with intricate carvings and Roman numerals stands as a testament to the family’s appreciation for fine craftsmanship and timeless design.
Artwork in Althorp Estate  in Northampton
The grand entrance adorned with large, majestic paintings and a central chandelier emphasizes the opulence and grandeur of Althorp’s interiors.
Artwork in Althorp Estate  in Northampton
A close-up of an ornate golden fixture, featuring intricate details and a cherubic face, highlights the meticulous attention to detail in the estate’s decor.
Artwork in Althorp Estate  in Northampton
Portraits of elegantly dressed women in gilded frames adorn the walls, showcasing the family’s extensive collection of historical artwork.
Artwork in Althorp Estate  in Northampton
A richly detailed coat of arms, set in an elaborate frame, reflects the family’s noble lineage and esteemed history.
Artwork in Althorp Estate  in Northampton
This classical painting of three elegantly dressed figures in a garden scene captures the grace and sophistication of Althorp’s art collection.
Artwork in Althorp Estate  in Northampton
Elegant designs of Althorp’s fine china highlight intricate patterns, embodying the estate’s rich artistic heritage treasured by Princess Diana’s family for generations.
Artwork in Althorp Estate  in Northampton
Grand porcelain vases adorned with floral motifs grace the console table, reflecting Althorp’s opulent decor and history of collecting fine art and artifacts.

Artwork in Althorp Estate  in Northampton
The portrait of this noblewoman radiates grace, epitomizing the Spencer family’s illustrious lineage and their passion for art.

A collection of antique walking canes, each with unique craftsmanship, represents the estate’s appreciation for detailed and personalized artistry.
Artwork in Althorp Estate  in Northampton
Ornate ceiling designs in gold illustrate the grandeur and meticulous attention to detail found throughout Althorp.
Artwork in Althorp Estate  in Northampton
Detailed embroidery of a royal emblem symbolizes the estate’s rich history and connection to British nobility.
Artwork in Althorp Estate  in Northampton
The intricate design of the clock emphasizes the estate’s penchant for luxurious and finely crafted timepieces.
Artwork in Althorp Estate  in Northampton
A gilded mirror reflects an array of portraits, capturing the essence of Althorp’s grand interior filled with treasured artworks.
Artwork in Althorp Estate  in Northampton

Althorp Library

This building contains a vast collection of rare books and manuscripts, reflecting the Spencer family’s literary interests.

The spiral staircase in Althorp’s library provides access to towering shelves filled with antique books, reflecting the rich literary heritage and meticulous curation by the Spencer family over generations.
Library in Althorp Estate  in Northampton
Beautiful stained glass windows illuminate a collection of rare and historic books, creating a serene and inspiring atmosphere for readers and visitors alike in Althorp’s library.
Library in Althorp Estate  in Northampton
The manuscript offers a glimpse into the historical documents preserved at Althorp, showcasing the estate’s dedication to maintaining its rich cultural and literary history.
Library in Althorp Estate  in Northampton
A collection of intricately designed books, protected by a wire mesh, highlights the valuable and historic nature of Althorp’s literary collection, curated with great care by the Spencer family.
Library in Althorp Estate  in Northampton
Library in Althorp Estate  in Northampton
This portrait displayed among the shelves adds a personal touch to Althorp’s library, connecting the literary treasures to the Spencer family’s history and legacy.
Library in Althorp Estate  in Northampton
A close-up of the library’s shelving showcases the intricate detailing and organization of the vast collection of books, emphasizing the estate’s dedication to literary preservation.
Library in Althorp Estate  in Northampton
Library in Althorp Estate  in Northampton

Wootton Hall

Named after artist John Wootton, this grand entrance hall features several of his works and sets a majestic tone for the estate.

The expansive dining room in Wootton Hall features an elegant setup with a long table, high ceilings, and walls adorned with portraits, showcasing the grandeur and historical significance of Princess Diana’s childhood home.
Wootton Hall in Althorp Estate  in Northampton
A close-up of the beautifully set dining table in Wootton Hall highlights the fine china, crystal glasses, and ornate candelabras, reflecting the luxurious and sophisticated atmosphere of Althorp Estate.
Wootton Hall in Althorp Estate  in Northampton

South Drawing Room

Located within the main house, the South Drawing Room is a showcase of opulence, featuring an array of fine art, elegant furniture, and historical artifacts
South Drawing Room in Althorp Estate  in Northampton
South Drawing Room in Althorp Estate  in Northampton
A stunning mirror with intricate gold detailing is framed by beautiful vases and portraits, showcasing the sophisticated decor and Princess Diana’s refined taste in art.
South Drawing Room in Althorp Estate  in Northampton
Photo Credits: Althorp Estate

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