Ormeley Lodge, a London property known as the site of a historic confrontation between Princess Diana and Camilla Parker Bowles, has been listed for sale at £25 million. The residence, described by estate agents as 'one of London's most remarkable private residences,' features 'magnificent walled gardens' and a 'wonderfully peaceful setting.'
The property went on the market after the death of its owner, Lady Annabel Goldsmith, at age 91 last October. It holds a unique place in royal history as the venue for the only direct confrontation between Diana and Camilla, who is now Queen Camilla.
A Royal Confrontation
The incident occurred in 1989 at a 40th birthday party hosted by Lady Annabel Goldsmith for her sister, Annabel Elliot. At the time, the troubles in the marriage of Prince Charles and Princess Diana were not widely known. Lady Annabel, a close friend of Diana, had not anticipated her attendance, noting that Diana typically avoided events where Camilla would be present.
Lady Annabel later recalled that Camilla had complained about Diana's arrival, describing the atmosphere as "pretty fruity." The confrontation took place when Diana, searching for Charles, found him and Camilla talking with another guest. Diana asked the men to leave so she could speak with Camilla alone.
According to accounts, Diana told Camilla, "I would just like you to know that I know exactly what is going on. I'm sorry I'm in the way. It must be hell for both of you...don't treat me like an idiot." Camilla reportedly responded by highlighting Diana's perceived advantages: "You've got everything you ever wanted. You've got all the men in the world falling in love with you and you've got two beautiful children. What more could you want?" Diana's reply was, "I want my husband."
The Goldsmith Estate
Ormeley Lodge was purchased by Lady Annabel's husband, billionaire tycoon Sir James Goldsmith, in the mid-1970s. The estate is situated between Richmond Park and Ham Common in southwest London.
The property is described as an "exquisite early Georgian estate" that includes a tennis court and a swimming pool.
Ben Goldsmith, one of Lady Annabel's five surviving children, commented on the sale: "Ormeley has been our treasured home for our whole lives. But it's time now to pass it on to another lucky family."
