King Charles recently welcomed Henrietta, the millionth hen rehomed by The British Hen Welfare Trust, along with 30 additional feathered friends to their new coop at Highgrove Gardens. To commemorate the special occasion, the renowned accessories designer Lulu Guinness created a unique wooden hen house adorned with intricate foliage and the name ‘Hengrove’ in sage green paint as a tribute to Charles’ property.
A Charitable Cause
The British Hen Welfare Trust is dedicated to rehoming commercial laying hens and promoting the support for British free-range eggs. This national charity has successfully rehomed over 60,000 hens each year in various settings such as schools, community areas, prisons, and private gardens across the UK. Founder and CEO Jane Howorth expressed her delight at reaching the milestone of one million hens rehomed, exceeding her initial target of helping 4,000 hens.
Highgrove Gardens, the monarch’s private residence in Gloucestershire, is a sprawling estate with nine bedrooms, six bathrooms, and 900 acres of organic land. It holds a special place in the hearts of the royal family, as Prince William and Prince Harry resided there during their childhood. Notably, Prince Harry cherished a secret underground room known as Club H, which served as a sanctuary for peaceful moments and mischievous adventures.
In his memoir, Spare, Prince Harry fondly recalls Club H as a space that provided him with solace and freedom during his teenage years. Initially a bomb shelter, the room was transformed into a cozy retreat with Persian rugs, Moroccan sofas, and an electronic dartboard. Prince Harry reminisces about the moments of tranquility and excitement he experienced in Club H, reflecting on the significance of having a place to unwind and explore his youthful spirit.
The story of King Charles’ bespoke hen house for his newly rehomed feathered companions at Highgrove Gardens is not only a testament to his commitment to animal welfare but also a celebration of the charitable efforts of The British Hen Welfare Trust. From the elaborate design of the hen house to the picturesque surroundings of Highgrove Gardens, the narrative encapsulates a blend of royal elegance and philanthropic initiatives. As we reflect on the joy that these rehomed hens bring to their new home, we are reminded of the importance of compassion, kindness, and creating nurturing environments for all beings, both human and animal alike.