Princess Anne’s life at Gatcombe Park presents a markedly different picture from her busy public role as one of the royals most recognised for her dedication. Though the 76-year-old is often celebrated as the “hardest working royal” due to her extensive official engagements, those close to her reveal she embraces a far more tranquil existence on her 500-acre Gloucestershire estate.
Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen, a well-known neighbour residing in the nearby village of Siddington, shared insights into the Princess Royal’s understated lifestyle during a recent discussion about life in the Cotswolds. He noted that he frequently encounters Princess Anne while travelling by train, pointing out her preference for a modest mode of travel.
“I’ve met her on the train quite often; we’re on nodding terms,” Laurence said. “She usually travels with a small group of smart but low-key military aides, and nobody really pays much attention-we’re used to her being around.”
Prince Charles, now King, was also known to use the local Kemble railway station frequently, according to Laurence. The Princess Royal shares her Gatcombe home with her children Zara and Peter, who reside on the estate with their families in separate houses.
Laurence mentioned that he sees her children regularly. “Peter is someone we know fairly well,” he said. “One of the charming things about this part of the Cotswolds is how informal and friendly everyone is. We all get along well without any fuss over status or celebrity.”
Contrasting the understated atmosphere in Gloucestershire with the more glamorous circles in nearby Oxfordshire, Laurence remarked, “Whereas you have celebrities like Beyoncé and Ellen DeGeneres elsewhere, here it’s just a close-knit community. Most of us are parents who meet at the school gate, not focused on anyone’s public persona.”
He also highlighted the excellent train service from Kemble to London Paddington, which many local residents prefer. “Sometimes the train to Paddington is more star-studded than the Expresso Bar at The Ivy,” Laurence quipped.
Royal biographer Robert Hardman has described Gatcombe as Princess Anne’s “happy place,” noting her deep connection to country life. “She is fundamentally a country person and a very dedicated grandmother,” he said. “She’s hands-on but, like most grandparents, lets her grandchildren get away with a few things. She adores them.”
Ailsa Anderson, who once served as communications secretary to Queen Elizabeth II, told Hello! magazine that Gatcombe is the place where Anne can simply be herself rather than carry the title of Princess Royal. “It’s much less formal there,” Anderson said. “Zara and Mike still live on the estate, with Peter and Harriet nearby.”
She added, “Anne is a pragmatist and, having experienced divorce herself, she prioritises the happiness of her children. It’s touching to see her at horse trials with her grandchildren, relaxed in her jeans, sharing her knowledge and affection.”
This glimpse into Princess Anne’s life at Gatcombe paints a picture of a royal who, while committed to her duties, values the comfort and community of her country home away from the public eye.