The late Queen extended a loving gesture to the royal sisters by acquiring Birch Hall, a seven-bedroom Georgian mansion in Surrey, more than 20 years ago. However, the offer was not embraced due to the Duchess of York's influence, and the property was eventually sold two years later.
An insider revealed, "The two Princesses still regret their decision of not accepting the Queen's offer." The source added, "Now, the royal sisters realize it could be an asset for them and a precious addition to their gifts from one of the world's most popular ladies."
Birch Hall, with its amenities like a tennis court, swimming pool, and a separate two-bedroom house on a five-acre site, would have been an ideal residence for the princesses and their mother, Sarah Ferguson.
Queen Elizabeth II is known for generously providing homes for her grandsons Prince William and Prince Harry on their wedding days. In a similar vein, she purchased a property for Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie when they were seven and nine, respectively.
However, the property remained vacant for two years as the princesses never moved in. Reportedly, Fergie declined the move, citing the inability to afford the substantial running and upkeep costs.
