The Althorp Estate, an illustrious and historic property in Northamptonshire holds a significant place in British history as the childhood home of Princess Diana – but neither Prince William nor Prince Harry are set to inherit it.
This grand estate, spanning over 13,000 acres, has been the ancestral seat of the Spencer family for more than five centuries, and it will go to their cousin Louis, son of Earl Spencer, Diana’s brother.
Although he has three older sisters, 30-year-old Viscount Althorp, Louis, will inherit the estate due to the aristocracy’s system of primogeniture, meaning titles are passed down to the oldest boy, not the firstborn child.
The estate is where Diana spent her childhood home and serves as the final resting place of Princess Diana. Over the years, Althorp has been meticulously maintained and remains a symbol of the Spencer family’s legacy.
Currently, the Althorp Estate is under the ownership of Charles Spencer, the 9th Earl Spencer, and under his watch, Althorp has hosted numerous events and exhibitions, including tributes to Diana’s charitable work and life.
Born in 1994, Louis is the eldest son of Charles Spencer and his first wife, Victoria Lockwood. As the heir apparent, Louis is next in line to become the 10th Earl Spencer, a title that carries with it the responsibility of managing the Althorp Estate.
Louis Spencer, Viscount Althorp, maintains a relatively low public profile compared to some of his famous relatives. He pursued higher education at the University of Edinburgh and later honed his acting skills at a drama school in Chiswick, London.
He’s now represented by Tavistock Wood talent agency, and an insider told The Telegraph: “He’s super private and gets on quietly with his thing. He’s a very talented actor and, I think, will be a brilliant one. You’d like him. He’s very low-key and genuine, decent and kind and tall.”
Louis is already attending Trustee meetings for the massive and historical estate he will one day inherit, as reported by OK! Magazine.
With the inheritance of Althorp, Louis Spencer will not only assume the title of Earl Spencer but also take on the mantle of preserving and managing one of Britain’s most storied estates.
This responsibility includes maintaining the estate’s historical integrity, overseeing its operations, and continuing its legacy as a site of cultural and familial significance.
Lifestyle magazine Tatler once described Louis Spencer as one of Britain’s most eligible bachelors, penning him “charmingly dapper” and having “down-to-earth sophisticated savoir-faire”.
Spencer’s oldest sister Kitty Spencer, has previously commented on her younger brother inheriting the estate over her. As reported in the Mirror, she said: “Primogeniture can be a tricky topic, because as times are changing, attitudes are as well. We’ve grown up understanding that it’s Louis to inherit, and Louis will do an incredible job.”
Diana spent her childhood in the idyllic Northamptonshire property enjoying the quiet life in the countryside and spending time outdoors with her siblings.
Althorp Estate is open to the public for tours during certain times of the year, allowing visitors to explore the historic mansion, and gardens, and learn about the rich history of the Spencer family.
