Princess Diana's childhood home, Althorp Estate, will not be passed down to her sons, Prince William and Prince Harry. Instead, the vast Northamptonshire estate will go to their cousin, Louis Spencer, the Viscount Althorp.
Spanning over 13,000 acres, Althorp has been the ancestral home of the Spencer family for over five centuries. Despite being the firstborn child of Earl Spencer, Diana did not inherit the estate due to the system of primogeniture, which prioritizes the eldest male heir. This tradition continues with Louis Spencer, the 30-year-old son of Charles Spencer, who is set to become the 10th Earl Spencer.
Louis, born in 1994, is the eldest son of Charles Spencer and Victoria Lockwood. Although he was born in London, he spent much of his upbringing in Cape Town, South Africa, where he attended the prestigious Diocesan College. Unlike his royal cousins, Louis has maintained a private life, pursuing an acting career after studying at the University of Edinburgh and training at a drama school in Chiswick. He is currently represented by Tavistock Wood talent agency.
An insider described Louis as "super private" and "a very talented actor" with a kind and genuine personality. His sister, Lady Kitty Spencer, has acknowledged their family's adherence to primogeniture, stating, "We've grown up understanding that it's Louis to inherit, and Louis will do an incredible job."
As part of his future responsibilities, Louis is already attending trustee meetings in preparation for taking over Althorp. The estate, where Princess Diana spent her early years and is now laid to rest, remains a significant part of the Spencer family’s legacy. Today, when open to the public, Althorp offers visitors a chance to explore its grand house and gardens, providing insight into the rich history of one of Britain’s most prestigious aristocratic families.
