Royal moves always generate conversation, and William and Kate’s latest decision is no exception.
We recently reported that the Waleses had their sights set on Fort Belvedere, a large house with 59 acres of lawns, gardens, stables, lakes, and even a tennis court.
But now, there are other plans, and the entire British press is talking about it.
Prince William and Kate’s move
After two years at Adelaide Cottage, the couple has set their sights on Forest Lodge, a $21 million property within Windsor Great Park.
This eight-bedroom house, with privacy enhanced by bushes and renovations underway, suggests that the Prince and Princess of Wales are looking for more than just a change of residence.
The striking detail is that, according to the British press, two neighboring families were told to leave their cottages because they were too close to the royals’ new home.
As one insider said: “They were told to move out… they’re not going to want any Tom, Dick, or Harry living in those houses if there are going to be royals there.” A blunt statement that reflects the logic of security and control that surrounds the family.
But beyond the logistics, what lies behind this is a need to start over. Let’s not forget that William and Kate moved into Adelaide Cottage just before the death of Elizabeth II in 2022, and since then, times have not been easy.
Charles’ illness, Kate’s cancer diagnosis… All of this turned the house into a place fraught with difficult memories.
Forest Lodge, then, appears as a symbol of that “fresh start” mentioned by those who know them closely.
Is it really a “forever home”? Some doubt it, remembering that William is destined to be king and that an eight-bedroom residence may not fit the image of a future monarch.
But for now, the decision is clear: to use their own money to renovate the property, not to have internal staff, and to give their children a place to grow up without so much noise around them.
It may not be a majestic palace, but it does seem like the more human version of what home means for a royal family.