Marlborough College in Wiltshire has a rich history dating back to 1843, and has been a ‘home away from home’ for some of the UK’s most famous celebrities.
Former pupils include Princess Kate, her siblings Pippa and James Middleton, comedian Jack Whitehall, author Dick King-Smith, Princess Eugenie and Samantha Cameron (David Cameron’s wife) to name a few.
Now, plans have been submitted to partially demolish and transform a listed building on the site which dates back to the 1800s.
The plans, which were first submitted to Wiltshire Council on June 13, 2025, propose a refurbishment, remodel and extension of the college’s Master’s Lodge, to provide facilities for day pupils.
The Grade-II listed building acted as a residence for senior college staff until recently, but it now sits unused.
The lodge has a rich history dating back to the 1800s (Image: Google Maps)
The school has housed several famous faces (Image: Newsquest) “The building has been recognised for its architectural and historical significance,” the planning application reads.
“Designed by architect Edward Blore, it was constructed between 1845 and 1850. There is an extension to the East of the main house dating back to 1860-1865.
“This project aims to convert the building into a day house accommodating up to 140 pupils, with an even split between genders.”
If plans are approved, the newly renovated lodge will include collaborative working spaces, a social space for each year group, a central social space and kitchen, offices for the House Master and Dame, four changing areas with showers, toilets, tutor rooms and store rooms.
The change will involve partial demolition of the listed building.
The Master’s Lodge sits on Pewsey Road in Marlborough (Image: Wiltshire Council) The application is currently under consultation until July 11, 2025, and a final decision must then be made by August 8 at the latest.
It’s unclear exactly when the work would begin if plans were approved.
Marlborough College currently costs just under £50,000 a year to attend, and along with Eton College, is one of the most expensive schools in the UK.
Recommended reading:
Kate Middleton was seen last touring the college in late 2023 and was reported as considering the Wiltshire school for her son George.
However, The Express now reports that the royal couple have agreed to send their son to Prince William’s former school, Eton College, instead.