Kate Middleton is now styled as Her Royal Highness, but the public knows her as the "people's princess." The term, in fact, is quite literal, as Middleton is the first commoner to marry into the royal family in 350 years. She's living in a palace now, but she wasn't born into one. House Beautiful traces back Middleton's roots in some of the homes she's lived in before marrying Prince William.
Bradfield Southend
Middleton spent her childhood in a country home in the village of Bradfield Southend. Her parents, Michael and Carole, purchased the house in 1979, where they intended their three children. The house has a cottage-type appeal, with brick walls, chimneys and a charming red door.
St. Andrew's, Pangbourne
Because of Michael's work, the Middleton family relocated to Amman, Jordan from 1984 to 1986. Upon their return to Berkshire, Middleton attended school in St. Andrew's in Pangbourne. Middleton boarded in the school during the last two years of her education.
Marlborough College
The Duchess also stayed at Marlborough College, considered as one of the most exclusive schools in England. She lived in the co-educational independent boarding school until she finished her high school.
St. Andrews University
Middleton moved to the University of St. Andrews in Scotland for a degree of Art History. Here, she first met and became friends with Prince William. As reported by People, Middleton even lived with the young prince and a couple of their friends for a time in a four-bedroom apartment in the campus.
Bordorgan Home Farm
After getting married in 2011, Prince William and Middleton lived in a rural farmhouse in the Welsh Island of Anglesey, away from the public. They rented a four-bedroom house in an idyllic, private property. Prince William was said to be nostalgic about their first home, and regarded this place as "immensely special" for them.
Kensington Palace
When it was time for the young royals to take on their official duties, Middleton moved to Apartment 1A in Kensington Palace with Prince William. The complex is also famously known to be the home of Princess Diana when she was still alive. However, Middleton and the prince stayed at Princess Margaret's previous apartment. It is known to be the grandest building on the grounds, with four stories and 20 rooms.
Anmer Hall
In 2015, Duchess Kate gave birth to her second child, Princess Charlotte. Soon after, she moved her small family back to the country. They now reside in Anmer Hall, Norfolk, in a 10-bedroom mansion located on the exclusive Sandringham Estate. The place is known to be the Queen's favorite vacation place.
According to The Week, the royals spent millions of pounds renovating their new residence, which includes a pool and a tennis court. The renovations were said to be to make sure the home remains private for the royals, but also included a few "extras." Among these are a new "glazed garden room," and a new kitchen.
However, officials were quick to defend the outlandish renovation, saying that Middleton and the prince plan to make the place their home "for many, many years to come."
