In the past few months, I've read many guides claiming to offer an insight into Kate Middleton's London life. Yes, Kate did once hang out at the likes of hot London clubs like Boujis, Kitts and VanQuatro, but those party days and late nights are long gone. These days Kate likes to keep it regal!
So, allow me to introduce UsMagazine.com's mini guide to Kate's London in 2011:
1. Richard Ward, in the Sloane Square neighborhood
Where else can our tour start other than Kate's favorite salon? The Middleton girls have been keeping their manes glossy here for years (her sister Pippa was in just last week!), but did you know this is also where Kate, 29, gets her nails manicured? "Kate comes in and out quite regularly," a local tells me. "She's stealth!"
2. Peter Jones, in the Belgravia neighborhood
Ah, the department store where Kate bought that Issa dress. And she's still going back for more. I hear on March 25 Kate and Pippa were on the second floor, perusing the ladies fashions. (Also spotted? Kate with two cellphones – would love to know what that second line is for!).
3. The Ebury Brasserie, in the Pimlico neighborhood
This reasonably priced brasserie is where Kate's been known to sneak away by herself and enjoy a little reading and a bite to eat. It's not for the calorie conscious (Kate's favorite Ebury burger clocks in at a gigantic 805 calories!) but it is conveniently located around the corner from Buckingham Palace.
4. Harbour Club, in the Chelsea neighborhood
This isn't just any old gym. When we spotted Kate here with a girlfriend in February, the pair stayed on after their 90-minute cardio workout for massages and dinner at the club's gourmet restaurant. Both Kate and sister Pippa are members of the luxury health club (where the joining fee alone is around $3,500!).
5. The Kings Road, in the Sloane Square neighborhood
Sloanie paradise! Last month, Kate ended a busy day of meetings (for charity work and wedding planning) with trips to her favorite stores – LK Bennet , Reiss and L'Occitane.
6. Clarence House, The Mall
Okay, so technically this isn't a hangout. But Kate has spent almost 50% of the year at this former home of the Queen Mother. It's a (literal) stone's throw away from neighboring St. James' Palace, and also the official London residence of Prince Charles and Duchess Camilla, Prince William and Harry. The best part? It's open to the public during summers.
Who's for tea?
By Omid Scobie, European Bureau Chief, for UsMagazine.com.
For more on the Royal Wedding, including rare photos, interviews with family and friends, details on Kate's new life as a princess and a tour of their lavish homes, order a copy of Us Weekly's Will & Kate: The Royal Wedding now.
