Kate Middleton and Prince William Embrace Country Living in Windsor

Estimated read time 3 min read

The Prince and Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton and Prince William, are taking a big step into country living by becoming settled in Windsor.

Key Points:

  • The family has made Forest Lodge their primary residence.
  • After moving from London three years ago, this new home marks their transition to long-term living in the area.
  • Ingrid Seward, an author, reveals how much they enjoy their life around Windsor.

Moving to Windsor represents a fresh lifestyle for Kate and William. They’re calling their new place, Forest Lodge, their “forever home.” It boasts eight bedrooms and offers a perfect view of nature for their kids – Prince George, 12, Princess Charlotte, 10, and Prince Louis, 7.

This unique house symbolizes their commitment to staying in Windsor, even when William eventually takes the throne. Their previous residence at Adelaide Cottage served as a test run for country life, allowing them to see if settling there long-term was feasible. According to sources from the palace, they are indeed eager to plant their roots in what seems to be a much-improved living situation.

Ingrid Seward noted, “They are enjoying their time in Windsor and have made it their home.”

Catherine, Princess of Wales and Prince William, Prince of Wales tour Long Meadow
Chris Jackson/Getty Images Princess Kate and Prince William in Northern Ireland in Oct. 2025

In contrast to previous royals, this couple has decided against live-in staff (except for their trusted nanny Maria Turrion Borrallo and a housekeeper who reside elsewhere). Surprisingly, they’re even choosing to pay market rent for their new residence.

In addition to renovating their beautiful new home, they’ve also enhanced the property with new trees and established security around the area, covering about 150 acres.

At 43, Kate emphasizes how being surrounded by nature has positively influenced her health after her cancer treatment and contributes overall well-being for everyone in the family.

Britain's Catherine, Princess of Wales and US First Lady Melania Trump are welcomed by Chief Scout for the Scout Association Dwayne Fields in the gardens of Frogmore Cottage on the Windsor Estate
NATHAN HOWARD/POOL/AFP via Getty Princess Kate with Melania Trump at Windsor in Sept. 2025

According to Seward, there was a feeling among the royals that Kensington Palace made them feel confined. Kate was excited about dog walks in the nearby park, but the only accessible area turned out to be a landing field reserved for helicopters, right next to international embassies.

Forest Lodge, formerly known as Holly Grove, Windsor Great Park, Berkshire, 2018.
English Heritage/Heritage Images/Getty Prince William and Princess Kate’s home at Windsor, Forest Lodge

Seward added, “In London, Kate didn’t get the kind of lifestyle she craved. She truly desires a country life.”

As they look ahead to the holiday season, Princess Kate is gearing up for her annual Christmas carol event at Westminster Abbey, celebrating various individuals and causes they’ve involved with throughout the year.

Adelaide Cottage, home of the Prince and Princess of Wales and their children in the centre of Windsor Great Park
Invicta Kent Media/Shutterstock Adelaide Cottage: the Wales family’s home for the last three years

Prior to that event, William is heading to Brazil for a week-long solo trip, promoting his innovative Earthshot Prize with celebrity guests like Kylie Minogue and Shawn Mendes joining in on the festivities.

Ingrid claims, “They seem to have their lives under really good control. They’re demonstrating great organization.”

Eugene Levy and Prince William on The Reluctant Traveler
Ian Gavan/Apple TV+ Prince William with actor Eugene Levy in Windsor, alongside the family dog Orla in February 2025

“It really feels like they are taking charge of their lives without any outside interference,” Seward expressed confidently.

Related Posts: