Prince William and Kate Middleton have embarked on a new chapter in their lives, establishing their home at Forest Lodge. This significant relocation from Adelaide Cottage, where they resided for three years with their children Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis, occurred in November 2025. The transition follows a period of notable events for the royal couple, including the profound loss of Queen Elizabeth and the health challenges faced by both Kate and King Charles. Forest Lodge is envisioned as their permanent abode, offering a fresh start and a private sanctuary for the family.
The decision to move to Forest Lodge came after earlier speculation that the couple might choose Fort Belvedere, the former residence of the Duke of Windsor. However, they ultimately selected Forest Lodge, a property that combines historical grandeur with modern comforts. The children's schooling at Lambrook School is a key factor in their current location, although Prince George is set to attend Eton in September, marking another milestone for the family. The public recently received a rare peek into their private life at Forest Lodge through an Instagram post.
On June 17, a photograph shared on the Prince and Princess of Wales's Instagram account offered a subtle but revealing glimpse of their new home. The image, commemorating a visit to Royal Ascot, showed the royal pair standing on a stone terrace in front of elegant double white doors. This brief visual cue provided a rare insight into their previously private dwelling, a detail much appreciated by royal observers.
Forest Lodge, an impressive Georgian-style house dating back to the 1750s, is situated within the vast 4,800-acre expanse of Windsor Great Park. Its distinctive brick facade is adorned with stucco pilasters, and the property boasts breathtaking views. As described by Jane Roberts in her 1997 work, "Royal Landscape: The Gardens and Parks of Windsor," the house commands "varied and extensive views of the forest, the Great Park, the castle and town of Windsor, with a fine stretch of distant country." Historical records from the 1800s also mention a garden designed by Humphry Repton, though its current existence remains unconfirmed. The estate is further enhanced by a tennis court, a paddock, and a small lake. Inside, the residence features both a sitting and drawing room, each graced with marble fireplaces, and it is almost twice the size of their previous home, Adelaide Cottage.
Historically, Forest Lodge has been considered a suitable residence for prominent royals. In the 1970s, Princess Anne was rumored to be a recipient of the grace-and-favor house from the Queen. Later, in the 2000s, it was suggested as a potential home for Sarah Ferguson, Prince Andrew's ex-wife. Despite these earlier considerations, neither ultimately moved in. For the current Prince and Princess of Wales, however, Forest Lodge appears to be an ideal fit.
Prince William and Kate Middleton have evidently found comfort and stability in their new home. It is anticipated that Forest Lodge will provide a nurturing environment for George, Charlotte, and Louis as they progress through their teenage years, prior to their respective educational paths. For the Wales family, Forest Lodge symbolizes a lasting and cherished home.
