The Prince and Princess of Wales’ secret first home – nestled within a sprawling 400-acre country estate – helped them keep their relationship private in the early days.

The pair now call the quaint four-bedroom Adelaide Cottage in Windsor their home, but as teenagers, they would retreat to an off-campus accommodation in their final two years of University at St Andrews, known as Balgove House. It was at this building that the young couple tried to keep their private life away from the press.

William and Kate’s four-bedroom cottage was set within Strathtyrum – a 400-acre private country estate owned by Henry Cheape, a ­distant cousin of the Prince.

Kate and William studied at St. Andrews University as teenagers ( 
Image:
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The site was reportedly being closely watched by William’s protection officers, who are believed to have lived nearby. The estate was also protected by unmarked police cars patrolling the area, and was hidden behind a large wall complete with CCTV cameras and bomb-proof doors and windows, according to MailOnline.

Little is known about the property’s interior, but exterior photos reveal a quirky layout for the delightful brick home, with a black door set at an angle on one side of the L-shaped house and an annexe extending from the right-hand side. The country charm is enhanced by white sash windows and ivy adorning the building.

Despite their well-known privacy, it was rumoured that Kate and William often hosted friends at this flat – so much so that the Duke even installed a champagne fridge.

Before settling into Balgove House, which they shared with pals, the future Duke and Duchess lived in St. Salvatore’s Hall, affectionately known as Sallies, during their first year before moving to a rented Victorian terraced house near the University.

13A Hope Street reportedly cost the couple and their two friends £100 per week each (a total rent of £1,600 per month), but today’s tenants would have to fork out a hefty £3,500 per month. A listing shows the property to have five bedrooms – three double bedrooms and two single rooms – plus one bathroom and one shower room.The interiors boast original features, including ornate plasterwork, picture rails and large sash windows.