Roddy Llewellyn remains one of the most fascinating figures in modern British history — a man whose name is forever linked with Princess Margaret, yet whose true legacy lies in the artistry of his gardens and his gentle, reflective nature. Born into aristocracy and thrust into public attention through an affair that shocked the nation, Roddy Llewellyn has led a life filled with creativity, reinvention, and quiet grace. His journey from the headlines of the 1970s to a respected career in landscape design reflects not only his resilience but also his enduring charm and depth of character.
Though best known as Princess Margaret’s lover, Roddy Llewellyn is much more than a royal footnote. He is a distinguished British baronet, accomplished garden designer, and thoughtful writer who has spent decades cultivating beauty in nature. His relationship with the late Princess Margaret may have captured the public imagination, but his life beyond the palace walls tells an even more compelling story — one of artistry, healing, and transformation.
Who Is Roddy Llewellyn?
Roddy Llewellyn, born Sir Roderic Victor Llewellyn on 9 October 1947 in Crickhowell, Wales, is the 5th Baronet of his family line. His name became a household term in the 1970s due to his romantic relationship with Princess Margaret, the younger sister of Queen Elizabeth II. Yet beyond his connection to royalty, Roddy Llewellyn is a respected figure in the world of British horticulture, known for his sensitivity to natural design and his poetic approach to gardening.
Even today, Roddy Llewellyn’s presence commands curiosity. Many people still search for “Roddy Llewellyn today” or “where is Roddy Llewellyn now” to catch a glimpse of the man behind the royal intrigue. Living quietly in Warwickshire, he continues to embrace his passion for gardening, teaching, and writing. His humility and grace have turned him into a symbol of how one can move past public scandal to lead a life of peace and purpose.
Early Life and Family Background
Roddy Llewellyn’s early years were shaped by privilege, tradition, and the spirit of achievement. His father, Sir Harry Llewellyn, was a celebrated Olympic equestrian who won gold for Great Britain in 1952, while his brother, Dai Llewellyn, gained fame for his vibrant social life. Growing up among such strong personalities, Roddy developed an appreciation for discipline, refinement, and aesthetics — qualities that would later define his own pursuits.
As a child, Roddy Llewellyn was drawn to nature. His love for plants and landscapes emerged long before he became known for his royal connection. He was educated in England, where his artistic instincts flourished. His affinity for beauty, structure, and balance laid the foundation for a life spent creating harmony in gardens across Britain.
Meeting Princess Margaret: The Beginning of a Royal Scandal
The meeting between Roddy Llewellyn and Princess Margaret has become the stuff of legend. They were introduced in 1973 by Lady Anne Glenconner at a dinner party in Edinburgh. At the time, Roddy was a 25-year-old aspiring gardener, while Margaret was a 43-year-old royal whose marriage to Lord Snowdon was crumbling. Despite their 17-year age difference, the two felt an immediate connection, united by shared humour and a longing for escape.
Their romance blossomed on the Caribbean island of Mustique, where Princess Margaret owned a private villa. Away from the constraints of royal life, they laughed, swam, and enjoyed the freedom that neither had experienced in years. When the press published photographs of Roddy Llewellyn and Princess Margaret together on the beach, Britain was scandalised. The images of the carefree young gardener and the royal princess became a symbol of rebellion, modern love, and the fragility of tradition within the monarchy.
Life After Princess Margaret
The relationship between Roddy Llewellyn and Princess Margaret lasted for several years before gently coming to an end in the early 1980s. Despite the heartbreak, they remained friends until Margaret’s death in 2002. Their bond, forged through mutual understanding and respect, endured long after the romance faded. In later interviews, Roddy Llewellyn often spoke fondly of her warmth, humour, and kindness.
In 1981, Roddy Llewellyn married artist Tatiana Soskin, beginning a quieter and more settled life. Together they have three daughters — Alexandra, Natasha, and Rose-Anna — and a family life rooted in creativity and privacy. Having moved away from royal circles, Roddy focused on his garden design career, gradually rebuilding his public image as a respected expert in horticulture rather than a royal companion.
A Flourishing Career in Garden Design and Writing
Roddy Llewellyn’s professional journey is a testament to his resilience and artistry. After studying horticulture, he began working on projects that showcased his distinctive style — a blend of elegance and natural flow. His gardens are known for their harmony with the surrounding landscape, creating tranquil environments that feel both cultivated and organic.
In addition to his design work, Roddy Llewellyn became a respected voice in gardening media. He wrote for leading British newspapers and magazines, sharing tips, reflections, and philosophy on design. His books and television appearances brought his knowledge to a wider audience, securing his reputation as a leading figure in British horticulture. While many still associate him with Princess Margaret, Roddy Llewellyn’s career achievements have firmly established him as a creative force in his own right.
Roddy Llewellyn and The Crown
Roddy Llewellyn’s life story reached a new generation through The Crown, the acclaimed Netflix drama chronicling the life of Queen Elizabeth II. The show portrayed his relationship with Princess Margaret with both sensitivity and artistic licence, reigniting interest in their love affair. Many viewers searched for “Roddy Llewellyn The Crown” to discover how accurately the series reflected reality.
In truth, while the series captures the essence of their bond, it cannot fully portray the depth of emotion between them. Roddy Llewellyn himself has spoken graciously about the portrayal, acknowledging the renewed public curiosity but maintaining his preference for a private life focused on nature and family.
Roddy Llewellyn Today and His Lasting Legacy
Roddy Llewellyn today is a man at peace with his past and deeply rooted in his present. Now in his late seventies, he continues to live in Warwickshire with his wife, surrounded by gardens that reflect his life’s philosophy — balance, simplicity, and natural beauty. Despite being the subject of public fascination for decades, he has never sought fame; instead, he has cultivated serenity and artistic satisfaction.
His legacy extends far beyond his royal romance. Roddy Llewellyn is remembered as a talented designer who brought emotional depth to garden design, blending art with the natural world. His life’s journey — from aristocratic beginnings to royal scandal, and finally to creative fulfilment — embodies the idea that true success lies in authenticity and passion.
Conclusion
Roddy Llewellyn’s story is one of transformation, resilience, and quiet brilliance. From the beaches of Mustique to the gardens of Warwickshire, he has lived a life that defied expectation and embraced beauty in all its forms. While history may remember him as Princess Margaret’s lover, those who look closer see an artist, thinker, and craftsman who found peace in the soil and inspiration in the world around him.
FAQs
Is Roddy Llewellyn still alive?
Yes, Roddy Llewellyn is alive and living in Warwickshire, England.
Is Roddy Llewellyn still married?
He has been married to Tatiana Soskin since 1981, and they have three daughters.
Where is Roddy Llewellyn now?
Roddy Llewellyn lives a quiet life devoted to gardening, writing, and family.
How old is Roddy Llewellyn?
Born in 1947, he is currently 78 years old.
What is Roddy Llewellyn’s legacy?
He is celebrated as a distinguished garden designer and writer whose artistry has enriched British horticulture, leaving behind a legacy of grace, creativity, and beauty.
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