The meeting of Wallis & Edward

The initial encounter between Wallis Simpson and the Prince of Wales, later Edward VIII, at Burrough Court, was a defining moment in royal history. Set against the tranquil Leicestershire countryside, this meeting at the prestigious estate that was Burrough Court was the beginning of a controversial romance. Burrough Court, a hub for the social elite in the 1930s, hosted the fateful introduction by Lord and Lady Furness, known for their grand gatherings.

The Prince, a figure of considerable charm, was a regular at the estate, drawn by both its leisure offerings and the company of prominent guests. It was during one of his visits that Wallis Simpson, an American socialite recognized for her intelligence and style, was introduced to him by Lady Furness, with whom Wallis was well-acquainted.

A mutual attraction between the Prince and Wallis, an American socialite noted for her poise and intellect, was undeniable. This connection quickly blossomed into a deep relationship, challenging the era’s societal norms.

Their affair soon captured public attention, igniting a scandal within the royal family and the Church of England, both of which objected to the Prince’s involvement with a divorced woman. Edward’s unwavering commitment to Wallis culminated in his abdication in 1936, a mere months into his reign. He proclaimed his inability to serve as king without Wallis by his side, a decision that reshaped the monarchy, allowing his brother, Albert, to become King George VI and altering the succession line towards Queen Elizabeth II’s future reign.

In 1937, Edward and Wallis married, becoming the Duke and Duchess of Windsor. However, their union led to their ostracization from the Royal family. Despite these challenges, their love story stands as a powerful illustration of love’s triumph over tradition and duty.

The romance that unfolded from their meeting at Burrough Court not only challenged the conventions of the time but also left a lasting impact on the British monarchy. Edward and Wallis’s journey from a discreet meeting to a relationship that would lead to abdication and exile reflects the complex interplay of personal desires and public expectations. Their story, marked by its beginnings in an English country estate, continues to resonate as a testament to the enduring power of love against the backdrop of royal obligations.

The Bower House Documentary

The “Bower House Documentary” unveils the secluded haven where Wallis Simpson and Prince Edward sought refuge during their meetings at Burrough Court. Nestled away from the prying eyes of the public and the press, the Bower House provided a backdrop for their blossoming romance and played host to pivotal moments in their love story. This film delves into untold narratives and personal anecdotes, offering a unique glimpse into the private lives of one of history’s most talked-about couples.

For those intrigued by Royal romances and hidden tales, it is a captivating exploration of love, secrecy, and the enduring allure of Wallis and Edward’s romance.

Uncover this captivating story’s untold chapters by securing your copy from the Larder at Burrough Court.

Price: £12 

Royal History FAQs

What is the history behind Burrough Court?
Burrough Court was commissioned in 1905 as a hunting box for Captain Herbert Allfrey, a wealthy hunting gentleman, and was built in 1906 by architect Walter Brierley. Brierley was well known for his work in the Arts and Crafts style, a movement that developed in Britain around the turn of the 20th century and spread across Europe and America. In 1919, the house was sold to Lord Marmaduke Furness, a shipping magnate with interests in shipbuilding, iron and steel, who was at that time one of the wealthiest men in the world. His Furness Line operated passenger sailings from Liverpool to Newfoundland, Canada and America. Of his many properties around the world, Burrough Court became his hunting lodge, where he mixed with high society, including the Prince of Wales, who later became King Edward VIII.

How did Wallis Simpson and the Prince of Wales (King Edward VIII) meet at Burrough Court?
They were introduced through Lord Furness’s second wife, Thelma Morgan, an American heiress. The couple divorced after seven years of marriage, following Thelma’s affair with the Prince of Wales. Thelma was a good friend of Wallis Simpson and invited her to stay at Burrough Court on several occasions. During one of these visits, the Prince of Wales was also staying, and it was here that he met Wallis and became smitten.

How is Burrough Court connected to the abdication of King Edward VIII?
The first meeting between Wallis Simpson and the Prince of Wales at Burrough Court marked the beginning of one of Britain’s most famous royal romances. Set in the Leicestershire countryside, Burrough Court was a popular gathering place for society figures in the early 1930s, and it was here that Wallis, an American socialite, was introduced to the Prince. As their relationship deepened, it caused controversy within the Royal Family and ultimately led to Edward’s abdication in 1936. He became the Duke of Windsor, and the couple married in 1937, forever linking Burrough Court to a remarkable chapter in royal history.

Why are some spaces at Burrough Court named Giraffe House or Duke of Windsor?
In the 1920s, Lord Furness brought exotic animals, including zebras and giraffes, back from Africa to live on the estate, inspiring building names such as the Giraffe House. Meeting spaces such as the Duke of Windsor pay homage to King Edward VIII’s historical connection to the estate.

Why do you have a zebra print logo?
It all stems from the zebras that once lived at Burrough Court. Lord Furness often travelled to Africa on big game hunting trips, as many aristocrats did at the time. Rather than bringing back trophies, he preferred to bring the animals back alive, shipping home zebras, giraffes and porcupines. They were kept here at Burrough Court in the Zebra Stable and the Giraffe House by the Paddock Car Park, which has since been converted into five offices.

What happened to the original Burrough Court house, and how was it redeveloped?
The original house was requisitioned by the military during the Second World War and accidentally burnt down in 1944 while occupied by members of the 10th Battalion, The Parachute Regiment. In 1952, Wilfred Keene bought Burrough Court and Burrough Farm at auction. A 13,000 sq ft grain store, built by his son Tony Keene, now stands on the site of the original house. In 2000, Fred Wilson secured planning permission to restore the courtyard and stable block into modern offices, meeting rooms and commercial workspaces.