King Charles has reportedly purchased a £3 million home next to Queen Camilla’s country retreat, Ray Mill House in Wiltshire, to protect her privacy.
The decision came amid concerns that the neighboring property, the Old Mill, was about to be sold and potentially turned into a busy wedding venue, which could disrupt the tranquility of Camilla’s private sanctuary. The King is said to have used private funds to acquire the property, ensuring no public money was spent.
Ray Mill House, which Camilla purchased in 1995 after her divorce from Andrew Parker Bowles, has been her cherished countryside retreat, offering a private space for family time away from the public eye.
The Old Mill, described in an estate agent’s listing as a property with “breathtaking views of the river Avon and surrounding countryside,” features four bedrooms, two en suite bathrooms, and extensive grounds.
The house, which had been listed for £1.25 million, was in need of updating when it was purchased by property developer Phil Clayton seven years ago for £675,000. Clayton had renovated the property and converted a former garage into a holiday apartment, which was listed on platforms like Airbnb and Booking.com.
A royal source told The Mail on Sunday that the purchase was a “pragmatic solution,” serving as both a sound financial investment and a way to safeguard Camilla’s privacy and enjoyment of her home. The source added that Camilla was “grateful and relieved,” particularly given the additional stresses of the past year, including King Charles’s cancer diagnosis.
Camilla has made significant updates to Ray Mill House over the years, including an extension to accommodate her grandchildren.
The property has also served as a retreat during challenging times, such as after the death of Queen Elizabeth II in 2022. The Old Mill, which dates back to the Norman Conquest, is located near the historic village of Lacock, adding to the area’s charm and significance.
The King’s purchase highlights the lengths to which the royal family will go to protect their privacy and maintain their personal sanctuaries, even as they navigate the demands of public life.
