Updown Court, Windlesham - A Royal history

Located in the picturesque village of Windlesham, Updown Court sits at the centre of the "golden triangle" framed by Ascot, Runnymede, and Weybridge. The area, situated among the rolling hills of Surrey, has long been a highly coveted location. The Romans settled there as early as the 2nd century A.D. With royal patronage stretching back centuries the "triangle" south west of London and directly adjoining Windsor has long-standing aristocratic and regal connections.

Prior to the 19th century Windlesham and Bagshot were one parish. Windlesham was the residential centre built around the 12th century church of St John the Baptist, and Bagshot was the trade hub of the area acting as a main turnpike out of London. The parish was home to a bustling high street with the royal estate of Bagshot Park on the outskirts of the village. During the reign of Henry III the area was designated part of Windsor Forest and ever since it has attracted kings and queens from Britain and further afield.

During the last century Windlesham established itself as an exclusive retreat for those in search of country life with easy access to the city. The Crown Estate acquired Windlesham Manor, located opposite Updown Court, early during the 20th century. For some years it was home to Princess Elizabeth before she became Queen. The property now belongs to His Highness Sheikh Hamden Al Maktoum, deputy ruler of the United Arab Emirates.

The original Updown Court mansion was built in 1924 on twelve acres of land. In 1977 His Highness Prince Sami Gayed, an Egyptian price, who held several ministerial posts in Qatar, made Updown Court his home. Since its original conception Updown Court has transformed itself into a 21st century stately home of unparalleled scale and luxury.

Historical Milestones:

		12th century Church of St John the Baptist is built. The original church was destroyed in 1676, and rebuilt in 1679. Alterations have been made during the 19th century.
		1486 Bagshot Park was bought by the Crown and served as hunting lodge. In 1635 Charles I, in a bid to raise extra revenues, extended his private delivery service to the use of the general public. The decree was issued from Bagshot Park. The Duke of York also spent time at Bagshot Park in the 1800s.
		1711 The Royal races are transferred to Ascot from Datchet Meads, across the Thames from Old Windsor. The new race course was opened by Queen Anne.
		1915 Windlesham Manor is built. The manor was later acquired by The Crown and was home for some time to Princess Elizabeth before she became Queen and Duke of Edinburgh. The property now belongs to His Highness Sheikh Hamden Al Maktoum, deputy ruler of the United Arab Emirates.
		1924 The original house at Updown Court is built on 12 acres of land. In 1977 His Highness Prince Sami Gayed, born in Egypt and held several ministerial posts in Qatar, purchased the estate. Present day Updown Court is a stately home for the 21st century.

Media Enquiries:
Nicki Glancey/Susan Grant
The Communication Group: 020 7630 1411
nglancey@thecommunicationgroup.co.uk
sgrant@thecommunicationgroup.co.uk

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