Prince William and Kate Middleton are moving to a new family home in Windsor for a “fresh start” following Kate’s cancer treatment, a transition that has reportedly required two families to vacate nearby cottages on the Windsor estate.
The Prince and Princess of Wales, along with their three children, are relocating from their current residence at Adelaide Cottage to Forest Lodge, a historic eight-bedroom property in Windsor Great Park. This move comes as Kate Middleton continues her recovery from preventative chemotherapy after announcing her cancer diagnosis in March 2025. A source close to the family described the relocation as an opportunity for a “fresh start” and a chance to focus on the future after a challenging health battle.
The transition to the larger Forest Lodge has necessitated the displacement of two families who were living in cottages on the estate. These families were reportedly given unexpected notice to vacate their homes by the end of summer to accommodate the royal family’s security team and staff requirements. According to a royal insider, the families “were not expecting” this development, as their cottages’ proximity to the new royal residence now makes them unsuitable for non-royal occupants.
Forest Lodge, valued at approximately $21 million, is undergoing significant renovations to meet the royal family’s needs, including enhanced privacy measures and security upgrades. The property sits within Windsor Great Park and represents a substantial upgrade from their current four-bedroom Adelaide Cottage. William and Kate are personally funding these renovations and reportedly plan to manage without live-in staff at their new residence.
The timing of the move aligns with the children’s educational continuity at Lambrook School near Ascot. The location also places the family closer to Windsor Castle, the late Queen Elizabeth II’s primary residence in her final years, reflecting William and Kate’s growing responsibilities within the royal family structure. This relocation marks a symbolic new chapter for the couple, who have openly navigated the emotional toll of Kate’s health journey while maintaining a lower public profile during her recovery.
While the move signifies a positive step forward for the Wales family, it has raised questions about the balance between royal privileges and the rights of other estate residents. Some royal commentators have also questioned whether Forest Lodge is sufficiently grand for the future king, given its relatively modest scale compared to traditional royal palaces. Despite these discussions, the Crown Estate’s decision underscores the priority given to royal security needs.
Looking ahead, renovations at Forest Lodge are expected to be completed by early autumn 2025, with the family planning to settle in before the new school term. This transition represents both a practical and emotional milestone as Kate continues her recovery, positioning the couple closer to the operational heart of the monarchy while maintaining their focus on family wellbeing. The move signals William and Kate’s evolving approach to royal life, blending modern family values with their increasing public duties.