In her early 20s, Princess Elizabeth navigated a life shaped by destiny after her uncle, King Edward VIII, abdicated to marry Wallis Simpson, placing her firmly in the line of succession. While her father, King George VI, reigned, he insisted she postpone her marriage to Prince Philip until age 21.

A Cozy First-Floor Apartment

During this period, the future queen resided in a modest apartment on the first floor of Buckingham Palace. A 1946 photograph captures the surprisingly simple open-plan space blending office and living areas. At its center, 20-year-old Elizabeth sits at a desk in a midi dress, turning toward the camera amid scattered papers and fresh flowers.

A large dresser against the wall displays books and ornaments on glass shelves. Armchairs nestle between the desk and fireplace. Personal touches abound: ornamental vases, clocks, and framed photos, including one of her mother.

Buckingham Palace, complete with its own post office and swimming pool, served as her private bachelorette pad until her November 1947 wedding.

The Secret Proposal

Prince Philip, then Prince of Greece and Denmark, proposed during a 1946 trip to Scotland. He offered a ring featuring diamonds from his mother Princess Alice’s tiara. King George VI approved the match but asked the couple to delay the public announcement until Elizabeth reached 21. They revealed their engagement in July 1947 after nearly a year in secrecy.

Early Years of Marriage

From 1947 to 1949, Princess Elizabeth and Prince Philip rented the five-bedroom Windlesham Moor in Surrey. Between 1949 and 1951, they divided time between Clarence House in London and Villa Guardamangia in Malta, where Philip served as a naval officer.

The Maltese villa held lasting memories. During a 2015 state visit, Elizabeth reflected: “Visiting Malta is very special for me. I remember happy days here with Prince Philip when we were first married.”

Return to the Palace

Upon acceding to the throne in 1952, Elizabeth returned to Buckingham Palace as her main residence, a role it held until near her 2022 passing. Though she preferred nearby Clarence House, Sir Winston Churchill urged her to occupy the Palace.