Thatched House Lodge

Hidden within the embrace of Richmond Park sits Thatched House Lodge. A seemingly unassuming name for a house steeped in history and royal connections. Thatched House Lodge isn’t just a grand residence. It’s a time capsule. Its walls have witnessed the footsteps of prime ministers, equerries, and even a U.S. General. The original structure, Aldridge Lodge, was built in 1673. It served as housing for two Richmond Park Keepers. It later underwent significant expansions, notably in 1727 for Sir Robert Walpole, Britain’s first Prime Minister. Imagine him strolling these very grounds, contemplating matters of state. In 1771, architect Sir John Soane merged the two original houses. He also gave the estate its current name, Thatched House Lodge. The name, a charming nod to the 18th-century two-room thatched summer house on the property. The lodge’s history continued to intertwine with notable figures. Sir Frederick Treves, the surgeon who operated on King Edward VII’s appendix, retired here. General Dwight D. Eisenhower even had a suite here during World War II. Since 1963, Thatched House Lodge has served as a royal residence for Princess Alexandra, The Honourable Lady Ogilvy. Interestingly, the property is not a typical grace-and-favour residence. Princess Alexandra’s late husband, Sir Angus Ogilvy, purchased the leasehold. This makes it a private property within the Crown Estate. Thatched House Lodge is more than just bricks and mortar. It’s a testament to the passage of time and the stories it holds. It stands as a unique blend of private residence and historical landmark within the serene landscape of Richmond Park.