When Prince William and Princess Kate, along with their three children – Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis – took up residence at Adelaide Cottage on the Windsor Estate in 2022, it appeared that this picturesque family abode was not their initial preference for a royal dwelling.
Sources close to the royal family revealed that Prince William and the Princess of Wales had initially aimed for the Royal Lodge, which had been Prince Andrew’s residence since 2003. However, upon learning of William and Kate’s interest in the 30-room Windsor estate, Prince Andrew reportedly declined, leading the royal couple to settle for Adelaide Cottage as a “compromise” due to their first choice being unavailable.
A royal insider, speaking to the Mail on Sunday, disclosed, “The move to Adelaide Cottage was never part of the original plan. However, they were compelled to do so as Prince Andrew was unwilling to relocate.”
The family resided in the four-bedroom Adelaide Cottage for three years, and now, their upcoming move to Forest Lodge is just weeks away. Interestingly, discussions are ongoing regarding Andrew and his former wife, Sarah Ferguson, vacating the Royal Lodge. Fergie is reportedly eyeing Adelaide Cottage as her next residence.
As reported by The Sun, Sarah Ferguson feels deserving of a royal home to spend her later years, especially after feeling dissatisfied with her divorce settlement compared to the late Princess Diana’s. Meanwhile, Prince Andrew has expressed interest in moving to Frogmore Cottage, the former residence of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle.
Negotiations are allegedly ongoing between Prince Andrew and royal aides regarding his departure from the Royal Lodge, where he has resided for over two decades under a nominal rent agreement. Despite having a secure lease, palace insiders anticipate that Andrew may have to vacate due to the mounting public criticism following recent allegations against him and his ties to Jeffrey Epstein, allegations he has consistently denied.
While concrete plans for Andrew and Fergie’s relocation are yet to be confirmed, sources within the royal circle suggest that William and Kate have a preferred timeline for their departure, before the Prince and Princess of Wales settle into their permanent residence nearby.
The Prince and Princess of Wales are getting ready to move into Forest Lodge in Windsor Great Park before Bonfire Night, with Prince William reportedly keen on his uncle vacating the mansion before their arrival.
According to a source cited by The Sun, Catherine is uncomfortable living near the Royal Lodge while Prince Andrew remains there, and William is adamant about his uncle’s departure before their moving preparations begin. The focus is shifting from Andrew’s preferences to directives he may receive.
Royal Lodge and Forest Lodge, situated minutes apart within Windsor Great Park, offer secluded surroundings with fields and woodlands where Prince Andrew frequently enjoys horse riding.