Princess Diana’s Letters Reveal Her Hopeful Past and Friendship

Princess Diana once believed she was set to have a fairy-tale life with then-Prince Charles. Katherine Hanbury, a classmate from West Heath Girls’ School between 1973 and 1977, is working with Gorringe’s auction house in the UK to auction photos and letters from their friendship, starting July 7.

Diana’s letters express her hopes and aspirations. “She was completely hopeful,” Hanbury shared. “She thought she’d met her prince.” The correspondence, from Diana’s 1981 honeymoon, will be auctioned by Gorringe’s on July 7, 2026.

“She wanted to have her own family,” Hanbury commented. “She was a lovely, caring girl and desired a family more than anything.” Reflecting on keeping the letters and photos for 45 years, Hanbury said, “I’m not getting younger. It’s time for someone else to enjoy them.” A 1981 letter read, “It’s wonderful being married — I think it’s safe to say that after two months!”

At school, Diana was described as “good fun” and “ordinary” by Hanbury. “She enjoyed everyday activities,” said Hanbury, recalling Diana’s fondness for domestic chores and sports such as swimming and tennis.

Hanbury recalls cycling with Diana, “We loved riding our bikes down a hill, making noise and having fun. She was just like any other girl.” Diana stayed in touch with Hanbury after leaving West Heath at age 16.

Diana and Charles began dating in 1980, marrying on July 29, 1981. Hanbury recalled Diana’s excitement after meeting Charles at Althorp, her family estate, through her sisters. “She was thrilled to have met the prince,” Hanbury said.

Hanbury realized her “ordinary” friend was engaged to a future king through the media. Diana was “only 20,” Hanbury said, “barely out of school.” The engagement seemed romantic, and Diana was smitten with Charles.

The auction lot includes a letter Diana wrote during her honeymoon in Scotland: “We had a blissful honeymoon with endless sun and calm seas.… I adore being outside all day & hate London!” Diana hinted at her new royal life by saying, “It’s a case of playing with grown-ups!”

“She was so young,” recalled Hanbury. “She was in a new world. I’m sure she thought, ‘I’m married and need to start a family now.'” Hanbury believes Diana’s caring nature was genuine. “She wanted to be loved by everyone,” Hanbury said.

While Diana’s life changed dramatically, Hanbury continued her education and built her own quiet life. Her letters and photographs offer a glimpse of Diana before the royal spotlight.

Diana and Charles’s marriage faced turmoil and public scrutiny. They had two sons, Prince William and Prince Harry, before separating in 1992 and divorcing in 1996. Diana died in a car crash in Paris on August 31, 1997.

Hanbury remembers the grieving public’s floral tributes. “It was unbelievably sad to see and smell the flowers,” she said. Diana’s death at 36 was felt worldwide, “She was so loved,” Hanbury added.

Hanbury wants her letters and photos to introduce people to the real Diana. “She was genuine,” said Hanbury, noting that being herself was a rare trait within the royal family. Diana will always be remembered for her kindness and authenticity.

Stephanie Nolasco reports on entertainment at Foxnews.com.