Frogmore Cottage, a long-held property within the royal family’s estate since the 19th century, gained public prominence when Prince Harry and Meghan Markle resided there as their first marital home. The couple lived in the Windsor dwelling from 2019 until March 2023, following their decision to step back from royal duties in January 2020. Recent reports suggest that Prince Andrew is set to become the new occupant of Frogmore Cottage, having agreed to vacate Royal Lodge in Windsor.
Allegedly, Prince Andrew will relinquish his tenure at Royal Lodge in exchange for Frogmore Cottage. The property, extensively renovated by Harry and Meghan at a cost of £2.4 million, funded by taxpayers initially but later repaid through the Sovereign Grant, will now be enjoyed by Prince Andrew. Originally boasting 10 bedrooms, the cottage was transformed into a five-bedroom residence by the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, featuring two orangeries, a vegetable garden, and a yoga studio, as detailed by House & Garden.
The interior design of Frogmore Cottage was overseen by Vicky Charles of Charles & Co design studio, known for her work at Soho Farmhouse and Soho House. In their Netflix documentary series, “Harry & Meghan,” released in December 2022, the couple offered a glimpse into their country-style kitchen with its marble-topped island, open shelves, and pendant lighting. The documentary and social media posts also showcased the cottage’s bathroom, where a vintage-style bathtub with ornate tiles was featured, including a photo of their son Archie enjoying a bath.
Harry’s memoir, “Spare,” described how the couple cherished their time at Frogmore Cottage, expressing their deep connection to the property and the serene surroundings. They last visited the cottage in 2022 for the late Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations and their daughter Lilibet’s first birthday.
Following reports that Prince Andrew paid minimal rent for over two decades at Royal Lodge, questions arose about his ability to sustain such a vast estate. The mounting pressure for him to vacate the property has led to discussions of him relocating to Frogmore Cottage. Despite living separately since their divorce in 1996, Andrew and his ex-wife Sarah occupy different wings at the Lodge. However, amid public scrutiny and calls for them to leave, the couple may be on the brink of a fresh start with the potential move to Frogmore Cottage.
The plan for Andrew and Sarah to transition to Frogmore Cottage signals a new chapter for them, offering shared spaces for family visits and a chance to create a more intimate living arrangement. The move is seen as a positive step towards a new beginning for both individuals and their families.