In a candid new interview, James Middleton shares fond memories of his “fantastic childhood” — one where he felt lucky to have not just one, but three nurturing figures in his life.
Alongside his mother, Carole Middleton, James reveals that his two older sisters, Catherine and Pippa, also played a motherly role as he grew up.
“They were definitely mothering figures to me,” James says with a smile. “I jokingly say I had three mothers. I was very fortunate. We had such a wonderful childhood, and they included me in everything — and still do. I’m now in my late 30s, and we still share that strong bond of friendship.”
Speaking from the grounds of his picturesque Berkshire farmhouse, James welcomes the team alongside his pack of six beloved dogs: Luna, Inca, Zulu, Nala, Mabel, and Isla. Nestled on 30 acres of peaceful countryside, the home he shares with wife Alizée and their 18-month-old son Inigo is surrounded by woodland and rolling hills.
“It’s a very special place, and we consider ourselves incredibly lucky,” he says, gesturing proudly across the landscape. “And we’re lucky enough to have seven pubs within a mile radius,” he adds with a laugh.
Born in Reading, James has lived in the area for most of his life, as have his parents. Carole and Michael Middleton reside just five minutes away in the nearby village of Bucklebury — a closeness he truly values.
“We’re a tight-knit family,” he says. “My parents do a great job of keeping us all connected. We were raised to appreciate that family is something you can’t take for granted. You can’t choose them like you do friends — but you also shouldn’t give up on them the way you sometimes might with friends.”
When asked if he was spoiled as the youngest — and the only boy — in the family, James chuckles. “I wouldn’t say I was indulged, but there are definite perks to being the youngest. You get away with a lot!”
Dogs are a central theme in James’ life and relationships. His sisters both own dogs gifted from litters bred from his beloved late spaniel, Ella. Catherine first had Lupo, who sadly passed away at nine, and now has Orla. Pippa and her husband, James Matthews, have Rafa.
“Wherever they go, the dogs go too — so I see a lot of them, which is lovely,” he says.
And when it comes to canine enthusiasm, James admits he may take it to the next level. “My sisters are passionate dog lovers, but I’m on another scale,” he says with a grin.
Was Prince William expected to be a dog lover before joining the family? James laughs. “Luckily, he’s always loved dogs. He had a very close bond with a black lab named Wigeon growing up, so he already understood the magic dogs can bring to our lives.”
