In a heartwarming gesture, King Charles recently rehomed The British Hen Welfare Trust’s millionth hen, Henrietta, along with 30 other feathered companions at Highgrove Gardens. To commemorate this special occasion, renowned British accessories fashion designer, Lulu Guinness, crafted a bespoke wooden hen house with a stunning green foliage-adorned façade. The hen house, fittingly named ‘Hengrove’ in honor of Charles’ property, features intricate details that truly reflect the royal atmosphere of Highgrove.
The British Hen Welfare Trust is dedicated to rehoming commercial laying hens and promoting the consumption of British free-range eggs. This national charity has successfully rehomed over 60,000 commercial laying hens each year, with various initiatives in schools, community areas, prisons, and private gardens. Jane Howorth, the founder and CEO of the charity, expressed her delight in reaching the milestone of one million hens rehomed, surpassing her initial target of helping 4,000 hens. This accomplishment showcases the dedication and compassion of British supporters who have opened their homes and hearts to these deserving creatures.
Highgrove Gardens serves as the private residence of the monarch, boasting lavish amenities such as nine bedrooms, six bathrooms, and 900 acres of organic land. Previously occupied by Prince William and Prince Harry during their childhoods, Highgrove House holds a particular charm with its secret underground room known as ‘Club H’. Prince Harry fondly reminisced about this hideout in his memoir, describing it as a sanctuary for mischief and solitude during his teenage years. The transformation of Club H from a bomb shelter to a cozy enclave with Persian rugs and Moroccan sofas speaks to the nostalgia and sense of adventure that Prince Harry associates with the space.
Through the rehoming of Henrietta and her feathered companions, King Charles continues to uphold a legacy of compassion and dedication to animal welfare. The bespoke hen house at Highgrove Gardens stands as a testament to the royal family’s commitment to supporting initiatives that promote the well-being of all creatures, big and small. The partnership between the royal household and The British Hen Welfare Trust exemplifies the power of collaboration in creating a positive impact on animal welfare and sustainability.
The royal hen house at Highgrove Gardens symbolizes more than just a comfortable abode for rehomed hens; it represents a shared commitment to compassion, sustainability, and animal welfare. The careful craftsmanship of the bespoke hen house and the heartwarming story of Henrietta’s adoption underscore the enduring legacy of kindness and generosity within the royal family. As we admire the beauty of the hen house and the joy it brings to its inhabitants, let us also reflect on the importance of giving back to our animal companions and creating a world where all creatures are treated with care and respect.