Prince Charles and Duchess Camilla spend most of their time at their country residence, Highgrove, in Gloucestershire. And while the estate is primarily known for its lush gardens with rare plants (a half-life project of Charles), there are other attractions in Highgrove (also read: Wide Swing: Prince Charles and Duchess Camilla's Most Expensive Royal Tour).
For example, it became known that in the house of Wales and Cornwall there is a real bunker in case of emergencies.
This safe space is specially designed so that couples can hide there for extended periods if the need arises. "Inside are medical supplies, including containers of blood from the same groups as Charles and Camilla, long-term storage products and radio transmitters equipped to receive signals even through steel walls, as well as air purifiers and dry toilets," royal biographer Brian Howe describes the hideout in his book Not in Front of the Corgis.
According to him, the "panic room" is so strong and protected that "even if the house collapses, it will simply fall to the first floor safe and sound."
Highgrove was built between 1796 and 1798 on the site of an older estate. It is believed that the architect was Anthony Keck, and among the former owners of this place is the family of former British Prime Minister Harold Macmillan.
Charles lived there for over forty years, having managed to renovate the house and build a real organic farm on the territory. The 15 acres of gardens are home to over 140 varieties of fruits and vegetables and over 120 species of herbs and wild flowers. Moreover, the prince, known for his thirst for environmental protection, makes a bet on rare, endangered species.
During Charles and Diana's marriage, Highgrove was their main residence, so Princes William and Harry spent their first years there before going to school.
The house has always been perfectly equipped and ready for permanent residents. It has nine bedrooms, four living rooms, eight bathrooms and a nursery. However, Princess Diana never liked this estate (perhaps because of the proximity to the house of her rival, Camilla). Welsh preferred the bustle of Kensington Palace to suburban seclusion (see also: Diana's Shelter: What was the home of the Princess of Wales). And when the problems in their relationship with Charles became apparent, the princess almost stopped appearing in Gloucestershire and spent all the time in London.
Photo: Getty Images
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