Meriel Buenrostro

Written by Meriel Buenrostro

Modified & Updated: 05 Mar 2024

Jessica Corbett

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

22-surprising-facts-about-kate-middletons-family
Source: Hellomagazine.com

Kate Middleton, now known as the Duchess of Cambridge, captured the world’s attention when she married Prince William, the future King of England. Beyond being a member of the British royal family, Kate Middleton has an intriguing and diverse family background that has been the subject of much fascination. From her middle-class upbringing to her connection with British nobility, the details of Kate’s family history are both surprising and intriguing. In this article, we will delve into 22 surprising facts about Kate Middleton’s family, shedding light on her roots, lineage, and the unique individuals who make up her extended family. From entrepreneurial ventures to familial connections to notable accomplishments, this exploration of Kate’s family will give you a deeper understanding of the woman behind the royal title. So, let’s dive into the lesser-known aspects of Kate Middleton’s family and discover some fascinating details along the way.

Key Takeaways:

  • Kate Middleton’s family has ties to British aristocracy, made their fortune in the party supply business, and includes accomplished athletes, writers, and entrepreneurs, adding depth to the royal lineage.
  • The Middletons’ diverse background includes coal miners, electricians, and airline pilots, showcasing a mix of working-class and aristocratic roots within Kate Middleton’s family.
Table of Contents

The Middletons have ties to British aristocracy.

Contrary to popular belief, Kate Middleton’s family has a connection to British aristocracy. Her great-grandmother, Olive Lupton, was from an influential Yorkshire family with ties to the aristocracy.

They made their fortune in the party supply business.

The Middletons built their wealth through their lucrative party supply business called Party Pieces. Started by Carole Middleton, Kate’s mother, the company quickly grew into a successful venture catering to various celebrations and events.

Michael Middleton was once an airline pilot.

Kate’s father, Michael Middleton, had an exciting career as an airline pilot before joining the family business. He flew planes for British Airways and even met Carole, who worked as a flight attendant, during their time at the company.

Carole Middleton comes from a working-class background.

Before her marriage into the Royal Family, Carole Middleton came from a working-class background. Her father worked as a builder, and her mother was a flight attendant.

James Middleton is an entrepreneur.

Kate’s younger brother, James Middleton, is not only known for being a member of the Royal Family but also an entrepreneur. He has founded several successful companies, including Boomf, a personalized greeting card and gift company.

Pippa Middleton gained notoriety for her role in the Royal Wedding.

Kate’s younger sister, Pippa Middleton, captivated the world when she served as the maid of honor at Kate’s wedding to Prince William. Her elegant appearance and famous dress caught much attention and made her a style icon.

Carole Middleton is an author.

Carole Middleton has showcased her writing skills by co-authoring a party planning book called “Celebrate: A Year of British Festivities for Families and Friends”. It offers tips and advice for hosting memorable gatherings.

Middleton family parties include a legendary game called “Sardines”.

When the Middletons gather for family parties, they often play a popular game called “Sardines”. This hide-and-seek style game is a favorite among the family members.

Kate Middleton has an uncle who is a reality TV star.

Gary Goldsmith, Kate’s maternal uncle, gained fame through his appearance on the reality TV show “I’m a Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here!”. He has since become a well-known figure in the media.

James Middleton struggled with mental health issues.

James Middleton has been open about his battles with depression and how he has struggled with his mental health. He has become an advocate for mental health awareness, sharing his experiences to help others.

The Middletons have a connection to Wimbledon.

The Middleton family has a long-standing connection to the Wimbledon tennis tournament. Carole Middleton worked as a flight attendant on the tournament airline and even met her future husband, Michael, during the event.

Kate Middleton’s uncle is a former Formula One team boss.

Kate’s uncle, John Bungey, had a successful career as a team boss in Formula One. He played a significant role in managing the careers of iconic drivers such as Martin Brundle and Ayrton Senna.

Carole Middleton descends from coal miners.

Carole Middleton’s ancestors were coal miners, showcasing the diverse and varied background of Kate Middleton’s family.

Pippa Middleton is an accomplished athlete.

Pippa Middleton has displayed her athletic prowess by participating in various sports events, including marathons and triathlons. She has raised substantial funds for charity through her sporting endeavors.

James Middleton is passionate about dogs.

James Middleton has a strong love for dogs and has even created a company called Ella & Co that offers dog food products. He is also a patron of the Pets As Therapy charity.

Carole Middleton was once dubbed the “Queen of the Middletons.”

With her strong presence and influential role in the Middleton family, Carole has earned the nickname “Queen of the Middletons” by the media.

Kate Middleton’s great-great-grandfather was a coal miner.

Further highlighting the family’s diverse heritage, Kate Middleton’s great-great-grandfather, John Harrison, worked as a coal miner in Durham.

Pippa Middleton is an accomplished writer.

Pippa Middleton has written several books, including “Celebrate: A Year of British Festivities for Families and Friends,” which she co-wrote with her mother Carole.

Carole Middleton’s brother is an electrician.

Carole’s brother, Gary Goldsmith, has worked as an electrician in the past, showcasing the family’s varied professions.

Kate Middleton’s family home is a historic Georgian manor.

The Middletons reside in Bucklebury Manor, a remarkable Georgian manor house with a rich history. The house has been in the family for many generations and provides a stunning backdrop to their lives.

James Middleton is an advocate for environmental conservation.

James Middleton has a strong passion for environmental conservation and is actively involved in promoting sustainable practices. He supports initiatives aimed at protecting nature and wildlife.

The Middletons attended Prince William and Kate’s wedding.

As close-knit and supportive family members, the Middletons attended the royal wedding of Prince William to Kate Middleton, showcasing their significant role in the couple’s life.

In conclusion, the Middletons, as the family of Kate Middleton, have a fascinating background filled with achievements, diverse professions, and connections to both British aristocracy and everyday working-class individuals. Their stories add depth and interest to the already captivating royal lineage.

Conclusion

Kate Middleton’s family is full of intriguing secrets and surprising facts. From their humble beginnings to their close-knit relationships, the Middletons have become a fascinating part of the royal family’s story. Whether it’s the success of their business or their charming anecdotes, this family has captured the world’s attention. As Kate Middleton continues to navigate her role as a prominent figure within the royal family, her family’s journey serves as a reminder that anyone can find themselves at the center of history. The Middletons have shown that with determination and support, dreams can truly become a reality. So, the next time you think about Kate Middleton, take a moment to appreciate the fascinating story of her family and the remarkable journey they’ve embarked upon.

FAQs

1. Where is Kate Middleton’s family from?

Kate Middleton’s family is from England. They have deep roots in the county of Berkshire.

2. What is the background of Kate Middleton’s family?

The Middleton family comes from a middle-class background. They have a history of successful entrepreneurship, particularly in the party supplies business.

3. How did the Middletons meet the royal family?

Kate Middleton first crossed paths with Prince William while they were both studying at the University of St Andrews. They eventually started dating, and the Middleton family became intertwined with the royal family as their relationship grew stronger.

4. How has the royal family embraced the Middletons?

The royal family has warmly welcomed the Middletons into their fold. They have been supportive of Kate Middleton’s marriage to Prince William and have integrated them into royal events and engagements.

5. Does Kate Middleton’s family have any notable achievements?

Yes, the Middletons have achieved great success with their party supplies business, Party Pieces. They transformed it from a small venture into a highly successful company.

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