When one thinks of Britain’s royal residences, Buckingham Palace comes to mind. Yet, like the Qing emperors’ distant retreats, Britain’s royals also sought sanctuary beyond London, with Eltham Palace among the most notable.

Eltham’s history stretches back centuries, reflecting the shifting fortunes of British society. Acquired by Edward II in the early 14th century, it became a political hub, hosting kings and even a Byzantine emperor. The palace reached its zenith under Edward IV, who built the magnificent Great Hall, showcasing medieval craftsmanship with its famed hammer-beam roof. Henry VIII, the last monarch to live here, spent much of his childhood within its walls, but as London grew, Eltham’s prestige faded, and it fell into ruin after the Civil War.

The Courtaulds revived Eltham in the 20th century, restoring its grandeur and adding unique touches, including a heated enclosure for their pet lemur, Mah-Jongg, purchased from Harrods. Roaming freely, the lemur embodied the family’s eccentricity and charm.

In the 1940s, the palace was repurposed for military training. English Heritage took over in the 1980s, restoring it to its former glory. What future awaits this storied estate remains to be seen.