These are a few of James Middleton's favourite things

The entrepreneur and dog lover, brother of The Princess of Wales, is an advocate for mental health. As an ambassador for the Dogs Trust, he promotes responsible dog ownership and its benefits for wellbeing.

He was inspired by his late cocker spaniel, Ella, to start his dog-food business, James & Ella, and write Meet Ella: The Dog Who Saved My Life.

James lives in Berkshire with his family and their six dogs.

Running shoes

One of my first dates with my wife, Alizée, was a countryside run with the dogs.

As a surprise, I bought her a pair of Inov8 running shoes — a favourite brand of mine from the Lake District. Ever since, we’ve continued the tradition, running together at least once a week in matching trainers.

It’s our shared ritual, a way to reconnect and, if we’ve had an argument, a run together usually sets everything straight by the time we get back home.

Pet portraits

I carry Ella with me everywhere, quite literally.

After she passed away at the age of 15, my friend the artist Holly Frean painted a tiny portrait of her, no bigger than a postage stamp.

I bring it with me to meaningful occasions: she’s been to The King’s Coronation and Wimbledon and was even present at Inigo’s birth. It’s my quiet way of keeping her spirit close.

A tractor

Tilly, my beloved International McCormick B250, was a gift from my father on my 18th birthday.

At the time, she was a complete rust bucket. I began restoring her during a period when I was struggling with depression and, in many ways, fixing her up became a metaphor for healing myself.

She’s packed with sentimental value, too, as Tilly was the name of our first family dog, who loved riding along on the tractor.

Now, my son, Inigo, adores her just as much and, one day, she will be his.

This feature originally appeared in the October 29, 2025, issue of Country Life. Click here for more information on how to subscribe.