Buckingham Palace gardens might not be on Airbnb (yet), but the British Royal Family’s influence on the UK hospitality scene extends far beyond posh afternoon teas at Claridge’s. From gastropubs in remote corners of the countryside to swanky London steakhouses, the royals – directly and indirectly – have their fingers in a surprising number of hospitality pies. Whether it’s through personal investments, inherited estates, or charity affiliations, the royals continue to be a powerful force in shaping how Britain entertains and feeds itself. So, grab your fascinator and metaphorical napkin, because we’re taking a deep dive into the world of royal-connected hospitality businesses in 2024.
Palaces and Pubs: The Royal Estate’s Hospitality Portfolio
The Crown Estate, a vast portfolio of lands and holdings overseen by an independent body on behalf of the monarch, is a significant player in the hospitality industry. It directly manages a collection of historic properties, including palaces like Hampton Court and Hillsborough Castle, which offer everything from opulent guided tours to fancy on-site cafes.
Beyond palaces, the Crown Estate owns a sizeable chunk of British pub real estate. Hundreds of traditional pubs across the country, from charming thatched-roof havens in the Cotswolds to gastropubs serving up Michelin-worthy fare, operate under the Crown Estate’s leasehold system. While the Queen herself isn’t pouring pints behind the bar, the Estate’s influence ensures these historic pubs remain a cornerstone of British hospitality.
Prince Charles: The Sustainable Hotelier
Known for his passion for environmental issues, Prince Charles hasn’t shied away from incorporating sustainability into the hospitality sphere. His most high-profile project is the Duchy of Cornwall, a private estate that oversees various sustainable practices across agricultural land and, you guessed it, hospitality ventures.
The crown jewel of the Duchy’s hospitality portfolio is the chic and eco-friendly Hotel Tresanton in Cornwall. This intimate clifftop retreat boasts stunning sea views, locally sourced ingredients in its restaurant, and a strong focus on reducing its environmental footprint. The Duchy also partners with other hotels, encouraging sustainable practices throughout the industry.
Royal Relatives Cashing In: From Gastro Pubs to Safari Parks
The British Royal Family extends beyond the direct line of succession, and several royal relatives have carved their own niches in the hospitality industry. Perhaps the most high-profile example is Pippa Middleton, the Duchess of Cambridge’s sister. Alongside her husband, James Matthews, Pippa co-owns Bucklebury Farm Park, a sprawling estate in rural Berkshire. The farm offers a delightful mix of activities for families, including a safari park, a soft play area, and a charming cafe serving up homemade treats.
Another interesting example is Princess Eugenie’s husband, Jack Brooksbank. Before their marriage, Brooksbank co-founded Maverick, a trendy bar and restaurant in Mayfair. While he has since stepped away from direct involvement, the royal connection undoubtedly gave the venue a certain cachet in its early days.
Beyond Bricks and Mortar: Royals and Restaurant Franchises
The reach of the royals in hospitality extends beyond physical locations. In recent years, several popular restaurant chains have secured endorsements from royal family members. For instance, Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, is a patron of the Castle Douglas Food Festival, lending her name recognition to this celebration of Scottish fare.
Fast food chains haven’t been immune to the royal touch either. In 2 017, Prince Charles visited a KFC in London to learn about the company’s commitment to sustainable sourcing practices. While not exactly an official endorsement, the visit generated significant media attention and highlighted the potential for even fast-food giants to embrace sustainability – a cause championed by the Prince.
Charity, Catering, and Canapés: Supporting Worthy Causes
The British Royal Family is famously involved in a vast number of charities. Many of these charities, in turn, run hospitality businesses to raise funds for their causes. For instance, The Prince’s Trust, a charity founded by Prince Charles, operates The Prince’s Trust Fairbridge at Highgrove, a social enterprise offering cookery courses and a restaurant run by disadvantaged young people.
Another example is the catering company Goose Box, which boasts a royal warrant – a formal mark of approval granted to suppliers who regularly provide goods or services to the Royal Household. Goose Box uses its royal connection to secure contracts for high-end corporate events, with a portion of the proceeds going to support various charities.
The Future of Royal Hospitality: A Blend of Tradition and Progress
The British Royal Family’s connection to hospitality is a fascinating and enduring one. From the grandeur of the Crown Estate’s historic properties to the eco-conscious initiatives championed by Prince Charles, the royals continue to shape how Britons experience food, drink, and leisure.
Looking ahead, it’s likely that the future of royal-connected hospitality will be a blend of tradition and progress. The Crown Estate will likely continue to ensure the preservation of historic pubs and palaces, offering visitors a glimpse into Britain’s rich heritage. Prince Charles’ focus on sustainability is also likely to continue to influence the industry, with more hotels and restaurants embracing eco-friendly practices.
Technology will undoubtedly play a role as well. Imagine virtual tours of royal palaces with immersive VR experiences, or online booking systems for Crown Estate-owned pubs featuring curated itineraries for pub crawls in specific regions.
The involvement of royal relatives in hospitality businesses is also likely to evolve. As younger generations take center stage, we might see them embrace new trends and cater to different demographics. Perhaps there will be high-end glamping experiences on Duchy of Cornwall land, or Pippa Middleton might expand Bucklebury Farm into a luxury glamping getaway alongside its family-friendly offerings.
Beyond Business: The Human Touch of Royal Hospitality
Ultimately, what makes royal-connected hospitality unique is the human touch. Whether it’s the sense of history imbued in a Crown Estate pub or the charitable contributions made by businesses with royal connections, there’s a certain feel-good factor associated with these ventures. As the British Royal Family continues to evolve, their influence on hospitality is likely to do the same.
So, the next time you raise a glass in a charming country pub or savor a locally sourced meal in a chic hotel, take a moment to consider the hidden hand of the royals. From grand palaces to innovative eco-ventures, Britain’s Royal Family continues to be a surprising and significant force in shaping the nation’s hospitality landscape.