1764 - 1787


Wayward Prince George, and further improvements to Kew.

The wayward Prince George

He would soon embarrass his parents with his profligacy and a string of mistresses, ending with an illegal marriage to a Mrs Fitzherbert who lived at nearby Marble Hill.

The difference in their social ranks meant that none of their children would ever be considered as heir to the throne.

Further improvements to Kew

In the 1770s there were plans to build a great classical palace at Richmond but these were quickly abandoned.

Chambers did build the charming Observatory for the King’s private astronomical observations and the Queen, in her own quiet way, added to the gardens with a rustic-style cottage, complete with menagerie, which the royal family enjoyed as a picnic retreat.

 

Read more...>