Prince William, heir to the British throne, has spent years establishing his own style within the monarchy. He is more approachable, more practical, and less attached to the rigid protocols of the past. Together with Kate Middleton, he has built a modern image of the future monarchs.
Since their wedding, the couple have lived in several residences: Anglesey, Kensington Palace, Anmer Hall, and more recently Adelaide Cottage. In 2022, they moved there seeking privacy, proximity to Queen Elizabeth II (who was already ill), and a quieter environment for their children.
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Why William has chosen Forest Lodge as his new home
However, that house will not be their permanent home. Three years later, they are already preparing for another move. This time it will be to Forest Lodge, another property within Windsor Great Park.
Although Adelaide Cottage has four bedrooms, the space has become insufficient for a family of five. However, the decision is not only about size. Forest Lodge offers more amenities: eight bedrooms, six bathrooms, a tennis court, a ballroom, and extensive gardens.
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In addition, it keeps the family close to Windsor Castle and the Middletons, who live in Berkshire. Unlike other royal residences, the renovation will be paid for by the Prince and Princess of Wales themselves, with no cost to the public treasury.
Beyond space and privacy, there are personal and symbolic reasons that carry significant weight. William doesn’t plan to ever live in Buckingham Palace. Although it has traditionally been the monarch’s official residence, he has a different vision.
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Grant Harrold, former butler to King Charles III, said so. “William has long been an advocate for homeless people. It’s a bit difficult to support homeless people when you live in a huge palace, and I think he’s aware of that.”
Moreover, Forest Lodge is more economical than Buckingham, where the maintenance costs are disproportionate. The prince’s goal is for Windsor to be the symbolic center of the monarchy, while Buckingham Palace remains an institutional site.
The move to Forest Lodge is not a casual decision, but a strategic and practical choice. It also clearly reflects the modern and accessible image William seeks to project as a future king.