@hollyclarkphotography,@althorphouse
Dreaming of a truly regal wedding? Well, it seems like you can bring this dream to life! Recently, news outlets reported that the iconic Althorp House has hit the rental market. Yes, that very West Northamptonshire stately home where young Princess Diana spent her childhood years. Historic halls, plush bedrooms, and stunning landscapes — sounds like the most idyllic place for saying those precious "I dos." Curious about the details? Keep on reading to find out more about the place, the people, and how to rent this dream venue.
The People
Built in 1508, Althorp House has been home to 19 generations of the Spencer family. One of its most notable residents, Lady Georgiana Spencer, the future Duchess of Devonshire, would throw some of the most extravagant parties of the 18th century here, attracting the era's cultural and political elite. Over the decades, nearly every British king and queen has been a guest at this grand estate.
Diana's story at Althrop started in 1975. Lady Di was 14, when her father, John Spencer, inherited the title of Earl and moved the entire family to the estate. It was within Althrop's walls that Diana grew up and even first met her future husband, King Charles III (then Prince of Wales).
@althorphouse, @charles.earl.spencer
Sadly, Althorp also became the final resting spot for the beloved "people's princess" after her tragic and sudden death in 1997. Diana was buried in the center of the serene island of Oval Lake nestled near the main house. The path to the lake is flanked by a line of 36 oak trees, lovingly planted by the Spencer family to commemorate each year of Diana's life. As of now, Althorp is run by Diana’s younger brother, Charles, 9th Earl Spencer.
The House
With grandiose interiors and exteriors, Althorp sets a truly fantastic stage for hosting exceptional occasions. The estate's lavish bedrooms can easily accommodate up to 72 guests, making it an A+ choice for smaller-scale weddings. Some of the house's key amenities include a 250-person reception area, dedicated in-house catering, and a spacious 500-person marquee. Among the treasures of Althorp are its expansive library and, of course, a priceless artwork collection with masterpieces by Anthony van Dyck, Gainsborough, and Sir Joshua Reynolds.
@althorphouse, @charles.earl.spencer
For those looking to unwind post-celebration, various on-site spa treatments are also available. And with endless possibilities for outdoor activities at Althorp, there's no chance your guests will get bored. But while the estate offers a wide array of services, there are certain limitations too. For one, visiting Princess Diana's grave will most likely not be allowed. The burial has been kept private since 1997.
The Rental Info
If Althorp is what you've been looking for, you can now book it through high-class property rental website Elysian Estates. The exact rental cost remains undisclosed, but it is safe to assume that the fee is in the tens of thousands of dollars or more for just a single night at the mansion.
