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Cluckingham Palace: Royalty's Retirement Home for Hens
15 Apr
Summary
- King Charles's rescue hens roam Highgrove orchards in summer.
- Henrietta, the one-millionth hen rehomed by the welfare trust, lives at Highgrove.
- The King personally collects eggs for household use and on-site sales.

During the summer months, the King's rescue hens, affectionately known as 'Cluckingham Palace,' are permitted to roam freely throughout the Highgrove orchards. These hens, a mix of favorite breeds and rescued fowl, are a beloved part of life at the King's country residence.
Among the flock is Henrietta, who, along with 30 other hens, was adopted in 2024. Henrietta holds the distinction of being the one-millionth hen rehomed by the British Hen Welfare Trust, finding her retirement home at Highgrove.
The King actively participates in the care of his hens, often seen collecting eggs himself. These eggs are utilized within the royal household and are also available for purchase on the estate.
Highgrove serves as a practical demonstration of The King's Foundation's commitment to living in harmony with nature, embracing all of nature's creatures. The King's engagement with his hens was featured in the February documentary 'Finding Harmony: A King's Vision.'