On a crisp November morning in 1947, millions around the world tuned in to hear Princess Elizabeth marry Lieutenant Philip Mountbatten at Westminster Abbey. Their union, broadcast to over 200 million radio listeners, would become the longest marriage in British royal history, enduring for 73 years. Yet, after decades of shared public life and private partnership, the couple made a surprising choice in their later years: to live apart, not out of discord, but as a reflection of personal wishes and evolving royal tradition.
A Lifetime of Duty and Devotion
Throughout their marriage, Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip navigated the demands of monarchy, family, and public scrutiny. Together, they raised four children and welcomed numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Philip, often described as the Queen’s “strength and stay,” was a steadfast presence at her side during countless public engagements, state visits, and family milestones. Their partnership weathered scandals and shifting societal expectations, remaining a symbol of stability for the nation.
Prince Philip’s royal service was remarkable in its own right. From 1952 until his retirement in 2017, he undertook more than 22,000 solo public appearances, traveled abroad nearly 640 times, delivered approximately 5,500 speeches, and supported nearly 800 organizations. His initiatives, such as the Duke of Edinburgh Award and his work with the World Wide Fund for Nature, left a lasting impact. After more than seven decades of active duty, Philip retired with the Queen’s full support, marking the end of an era in royal service.
A New Chapter: Choosing Separate Lives
In May 2017, Buckingham Palace announced that Prince Philip would retire from public duties, effective that August. The decision, entirely his own and not prompted by illness, was met with understanding from the Queen and the royal household. For the first time in their marriage, the couple began living apart for extended periods. Philip relocated to Wood Farm, a modest cottage on the Sandringham Estate in Norfolk, while the Queen continued her official duties in London and at Windsor Castle.
Wood Farm, situated about 112 miles from Buckingham Palace, offered Philip a peaceful retreat by the sea. The cottage’s simplicity and rural setting stood in stark contrast to the formality of royal palaces. Here, Philip embraced a quieter life, pursuing hobbies such as painting, reading, and writing. He personally renovated the cottage, filled it with his own artwork, and enjoyed hosting friends in a relaxed, informal atmosphere—far removed from the ceremonial routines of court life.
Tradition, Independence, and Royal Precedent
The decision for the Queen and Prince Philip to live apart was unprecedented in modern royal history. While aristocratic couples have long maintained separate bedrooms or even residences, this arrangement was notable for its openness and the couple’s mutual respect. Biographers and royal insiders emphasized that the separation was not a sign of marital discord, but rather a reflection of Philip’s desire for independence after a lifetime of public service. The Queen, understanding his wishes, supported his choice to step back from royal duties and enjoy his remaining years on his own terms.
Despite the physical distance, the couple remained closely connected. They spoke regularly by phone and reunited for holidays and special occasions, particularly at Sandringham. During visits, the Queen participated in everyday activities at Wood Farm, such as washing dishes—an unusual sight for a reigning monarch. Their arrangement underscored the importance of personal space and flexibility in sustaining a long-term partnership, even within the constraints of royal life.
Reunion and Reflection in Final Years
The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020 brought the Queen and Prince Philip back together at Windsor Castle, where they spent lockdown side by side. This period of enforced togetherness, after years of separate routines, was described by friends and family as a blessing. The couple settled into new habits, taking walks and sharing dinners each evening. They celebrated their 73rd wedding anniversary together, and Philip passed away peacefully at Windsor in 2021, with the Queen by his side.
Their unconventional living arrangement in later years did not diminish the strength of their bond. Instead, it became a testament to their enduring respect and adaptability—a model of how even the most public of marriages can evolve to meet personal needs. As the royal family and the public reflected on their legacy, the Queen and Prince Philip’s story offered a lesson in the value of independence, understanding, and lasting love at the heart of tradition.