Meghan Markle and Prince Harry’s desire to reside in the historic Windsor Castle was met with a firm denial from Queen Elizabeth II. The Queen deemed it “inappropriate” for the couple to occupy the castle, citing concerns over privacy and the castle’s significance as her personal “backyard” and “solitude.” Instead, the Queen gifted the newlyweds Frogmore Cottage, a ten-bedroom home on the Windsor estate, as a wedding present.
The Request to Live in Windsor Castle
When Meghan Markle and Prince Harry tied the knot in 2018, they reportedly requested to live in Windsor Castle, one of the Queen’s primary royal residences. The couple had fallen in love with the castle’s grandeur and history, and they envisioned it as the perfect setting to begin their married life.
However, the Queen swiftly rejected their request, deeming it an inappropriate arrangement. The Queen’s decision was influenced by several factors, including the castle’s significance as her personal retreat and the need to maintain the privacy and security of the royal family.
Reason for the Denial
The Queen’s decision to deny Meghan and Harry’s request to live in Windsor Castle was primarily driven by concerns over privacy and the castle’s role as a personal sanctuary for the monarch.
Privacy Concerns
Windsor Castle is not only a historic landmark but also the Queen’s primary residence when she is in Windsor. The Queen was understandably concerned about the impact that the presence of the Sussexes would have on her own privacy and the ability to enjoy the castle as a personal retreat.
Significance of Windsor Castle
Windsor Castle holds immense significance for the Queen, as it has been a primary royal residence since the Norman Conquest. The castle and its grounds serve as the Queen’s “backyard” and a place of solitude, where she can escape the demands of her public role. The Queen was unwilling to compromise this personal space by allowing the Sussexes to reside there.
Frogmore Cottage: The Alternate Residence
Instead of Windsor Castle, the Queen offered Meghan and Harry a different property on the Windsor estate – Frogmore Cottage. This ten-bedroom home, located on the grounds of the Windsor estate, was gifted to the couple as a wedding present.
The Sussexes undertook extensive renovations to Frogmore Cottage, transforming it into a comfortable and private residence. They lived there until 2020, when they stepped back from their royal duties and moved to the United States.
Windsor Castle: A Significant Royal Residence
Windsor Castle has been a primary royal residence since the Norman Conquest, with several smaller royal properties nestled within its grounds. The castle has served as a refuge for the royal family, providing a peaceful and private setting away from the public eye.
History of Windsor Castle
The castle’s history can be traced back to the 11th century, when it was built by William the Conqueror. Over the centuries, it has undergone numerous renovations and expansions, becoming a symbol of the British monarchy’s enduring legacy.
Royal Residences within Windsor Castle
In addition to the main castle, the Windsor estate includes several smaller royal properties, such as the Royal Lodge, the Frogmore Estate, and the Royal Mews. These properties provide additional living and working spaces for the royal family and their staff.
Conclusion
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry’s request to live in Windsor Castle was ultimately denied by Queen Elizabeth II, who deemed it an inappropriate arrangement. The Queen’s decision was driven by concerns over privacy and the castle’s significance as her personal retreat and “backyard.”
Instead, the couple was offered Frogmore Cottage, a ten-bedroom home on the Windsor estate, as a wedding present. The Sussexes undertook extensive renovations to the property and lived there until their departure from royal duties in 2020.
Windsor Castle remains a primary royal residence, with a rich history and several smaller royal properties within its grounds. The castle’s significance as a symbol of the British monarchy and the Queen’s personal sanctuary underscores the Queen’s decision to deny Meghan and Harry’s request to reside there.
References:
- https://okmagazine.com/p/meghan-markle-request-live-windsor-denied-queen-elizabeth/
- https://www.marieclaire.com/celebrity/royals/prince-harry-meghan-markle-wanted-to-live-windsor-castle/
- https://www.foxnews.com/entertainment/meghan-markle-wanted-live-windsor-castle-seen-princess-royal-expert-claims
- https://www.cosmopolitan.com/entertainment/celebs/a41841414/queen-denied-meghan-markle-prince-harry-request-windsor-castle/
- https://www.express.co.uk/news/royal/1830814/meghan-markle-queen-elizabeth-windsor-castle