King Edward's Love Nest

Lillie Langtry (born Emilie Charlotte Le Breton), was a highly successful British actress born on the island of Jersey. A renowned beauty, she gained attention in 19th century London society and had a number of prominent lovers, including the future King Edward VII. After a very public 'courtship' the couple embarked on an exclusive affair. The Prince soon decided that he wanted to have somewhere that they could get away from prying eyes where they could relax and be themselves.

He bought a plot of land in a secluded area of Bournemouth's East Cliff and told her that she could design a home for them.

Where others would have preferred jewellery and gowns Lillie was very practical and considered land and property to have lasting value.

Lillie enjoyed designing the romantic royal lovenest, adding personal touches. The foundation stone shows ELL (Emilie LeBreton Langtry) and 1877. The King’s chamber had a lofty ceiling, specially designed to disperse his cigar smoke. The walls featured original paintings and their love of the theatre was reflected in the huge carved oak fireplace which featured hand-painted tiles with scenes from Shakespeare in blue and white enamel with gold leaf.

On the outside wall of the Kings room the motto 'Dulce Domum' Sweet Home and on the other side of the building 'Stet Fortuna Domus' (may fortune attend those who dwell here).

Lillie was determined to stamp her personality on the building, on entering her friends would be welcomed with the greeting 'and yours my friends' meaning this is your home too.

No royal retreat would be complete without a magnificent dining hall. Lillie hated dark wood and as in the rest of the house the wood was painted the new white enamel. Beneath the minstrel’s gallery a self explanatory statement for all to see ' They say What say they? Let them say'. Carved into the inglenook fireplace ELL and in the stained glass window lovers swans. Lillie didn't want to leave anyone in doubt as who her benefactor was. She even had curtain tie back hooks with the Prince’s own emblem. A humorous feature of the dining hall is the peep hole from where His Majesty could view his guests before deciding whether to descend.