The Prince and Princess of Wales are preparing for a major change in their family life, with plans to move into a sprawling eight-bedroom mansion later this year.
Sources reveal that William, Kate, and their three children will be leaving their current residence for Forest Lodge, a historic 300-year-old property tucked away in a quiet corner of Windsor Great Park.
The move has already prompted the relocation of two families who lived in cottages nearby.
Families Asked to Relocate
Earlier this summer, tenants living in cottages converted from Forest Lodge’s stables were asked to vacate.
While no formal eviction notices were issued, both families were reportedly surprised by the request.
A well-placed source explained that the cottages’ proximity to the lodge made them unsuitable for regular tenants once the royal family moved in.
The families were provided with alternative housing within the 4,800-acre park.
A Home Fit for a Future King
Forest Lodge, with its chandelier-lit ballroom, tennis court, Venetian windows, and expansive grounds, represents a considerable upgrade from the four-bedroom Adelaide Cottage the family has occupied for the past three years.
Royal insiders say William and Kate are hoping that the new residence will provide a fresh start and allow them to leave behind some of the more difficult memories tied to their previous home, including the Queen’s passing and health challenges faced by King Charles and Kate.
Preparations Underway
The property has been bustling with activity, with landscaping and renovations taking place and builders seen around the mansion.
Privacy measures, including black mesh fencing, have already been installed.
Earlier reports suggested the couple was weighing even grander options, such as Fort Belvedere, but the current tenants renewed their lease, making that option unavailable.
Paying Their Own Way
Forest Lodge was last renovated in 2001 and sits only a few miles from Lambrook School, which the royal children attend.
William and Kate are reportedly covering all costs for the move and rental themselves, ensuring that no additional taxpayer funds are required.
Kate has been spotted choosing furniture from a royal storehouse to furnish the mansion, including what is believed to be a 24-seater dining table to suit the house’s larger rooms.
Kensington Palace and Anmer Hall Remain
Despite the move, Kensington Palace will continue to serve as the family’s official London residence, and their office staff will remain there.
Additionally, the Waleses will retain Anmer Hall in Norfolk, a ten-bedroom property gifted by Queen Elizabeth on their wedding.
Some insiders have expressed skepticism about labeling Forest Lodge their “forever home,” questioning whether it will be grand enough for a future king.
Buckingham Palace’s Future
The choice of Forest Lodge also raises questions about the future of Buckingham Palace, which is undergoing a ten-year, £369 million renovation.
Given the scale of these works, it seems unlikely William will live there as king, potentially opening the palace to public events and major royal functions only, marking a departure from centuries of tradition.
A House with History
Forest Lodge was originally built in the 1770s as a grace-and-favour property and has hosted several notable tenants over the years.
Former residents include Sir John Aird, Edward VIII’s equerry, and Lord Napier, Princess Margaret’s private secretary.
The previous tenants before William and Kate were Alex Fitzgibbons, a luxury event planner, and his wife Cristina Stenbeck, who recently served on Spotify’s board.
Tragic and Glitzy Past Residents
Among Forest Lodge’s past occupants was philanthropist Alisa Swidler, who tragically passed away in 2019 at the age of 47.
Known as one of London’s most connected socialites, Swidler threw grand charity-focused parties and maintained high-profile connections, including friendships with Bill Clinton, Charlize Theron, and other notable figures.
Her children, like William and Kate’s, attended nearby Lambrook School, highlighting the estate’s long-standing appeal to prominent families.
