Prince William and Kate Middleton are starting a new chapter in their lives as they settle into their new home, **Forest Lodge**, in Windsor Great Park. The couple’s move comes as their eldest child, **Prince George**, prepares to transition into senior school in **2026**. This year also marks a significant change for Kate, who is looking forward to creating joyful memories in their new residence after a challenging period of health struggles.
Royal expert **Katie Nicholl** commented, “After a very difficult two years, I think the family will all be looking forward to a new chapter. Forest Lodge is a new start. It’s a chance to leave that difficult period behind and very much look to the future.” Reports of the Wales family’s relocation to Forest Lodge emerged in **August 2025**, when they announced plans to leave their previous residence, **Adelaide Cottage**.
Details of the New Residence
**Forest Lodge**, a **Grade II listed Georgian estate** valued at approximately **£16 million**, is located just four miles from their prior home. This impressive property features a curved driveway, tennis court, and a ballroom, with original sections dating back to the **1770s**. Images from renovations in **2001** reveal exquisite interior details, including a marble fireplace and vaulted ceilings.
While the exact rental cost remains undisclosed, speculation suggests that the couple might pay over **£15,000** per month for this larger residence. Nicholl explained, “Forest Lodge is obviously a much bigger house, and the couple is calling it their forever home. Adelaide Cottage was never really big enough for all of them as a family.”
The new home is situated in a secluded area of Windsor Great Park, featuring newly installed gates, state-of-the-art security cameras, and an “exclusion area” spanning about **150 acres** to enhance the family’s privacy. Despite its remote setting, Forest Lodge is conveniently located less than an hour away from **Bucklebury Manor**, where Kate’s parents live, and only four miles from **Lambrook**, the school attended by their children.
Transforming the Space
To make Forest Lodge feel like home, William and Kate have undertaken significant renovations funded through their personal finances. The upgrades included new doors, updated windows, and the removal of several interior walls. While the property boasts grandeur, Nicholl notes that Kate’s decorating style aligns with “understated elegance,” emphasizing contemporary and classic designs with neutral shades.
Renowned interior designer **Ben Pentreath**, who has worked with celebrities such as **Liv Tyler** and **Sarah Jessica Parker**, has been involved in the transformation of both Forest Lodge and their previous residences, including **Anmer Hall** at the **Sandringham Estate**. This estate, a wedding gift from **Queen Elizabeth II**, underwent a **£1.5 million** modernization.
Nicholl shared insights into Kate’s practical approach to design, stating, “She’s not overly ostentatious, so she won’t just be shopping at all the exclusive interior design shops on the King’s Road.” The couple has previously revealed that their children’s bedrooms include items from **IKEA**, while also supporting domestic brands.
Given the family’s active lifestyle, the design of Forest Lodge is expected to reflect their interests in gardening and cooking. Kate mentioned, “We grow our own vegetables,” and noted favorites like carrots and beans. As an accomplished pianist, she may also incorporate a piano into their living space.
Ultimately, the Wales family is excited about building new traditions in their home, including regular board game evenings. William has humorously remarked on the competitive nature of family game nights, stating, “Usually everyone gets very cross… because they lose.”
Katie Nicholl suggests that this move signifies a potential shift in royal traditions, stating, “Perhaps the Prince and Princess of Wales will become our first king and queen not to live in a castle or palace.” With their focus on family and a more relatable lifestyle, William and Kate continue to surprise the public with their unique approach to royal life.
