Fire Rips Through Building at Princess Diana’s Former Home

A derelict farmhouse on the Althorp Estate, the former home of Princess Diana, was destroyed in a suspected arson attack, according to her brother, Earl Spencer. Firefighters were called to the blaze at Dallington Grange farmhouse on Mill Lane, Kingsthorpe, around 1:30 AM on Wednesday, May 28, 2025.

Earl Spencer, sharing images of the fire on social media, expressed shock, stating, “I’m stunned to learn this unoccupied farmhouse was apparently burnt down by vandals last night. So very sad that anyone would think this a fun thing to do.” The estate’s head gamekeeper, Adey Greeno, confirmed the building was razed for safety reasons, calling the act “deliberate vandalism.”

Northamptonshire Police are investigating the fire, which they believe was started intentionally, though the exact cause is still under review. “Due to the secluded location, we urge anyone who saw activity near the farmhouse before 1:30 AM to come forward,” the police said in a statement.

Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service reported that four fire crews battled the blaze, which engulfed the late 18th-century two-story farmhouse. One crew remained on-site with a water bowser to dampen hotspots, ensuring the fire did not spread to nearby outbuildings. An Althorp Estate spokesperson noted longstanding issues with illegal access and vandalism at the site, which was slated for redevelopment. 

“The farmhouse was completely destroyed, but no one was injured. We are grateful to the fire brigade and estate team for their swift response. Our priority is securing the site for safety.” Althorp Estate, a Grade I-listed property and the Spencer family home for five centuries, was where Princess Diana grew up. She was laid to rest on its grounds after her death in a 1997 Paris car crash at age 36.