Prince William and Kate Middleton’s move to Windsor mansion makes two families vacate their cottages

Prince William and Kate Middleton, the Prince and Princess of Wales, are set to relocate with their family to 300-year-old Forest Lodge, a historic and elegant eight-bedroom residence in Windsor Great Park, reported the Daily Mail.

The move, anticipated before the end of 2025, is part of their long-term plan for a “fresh start” after a challenging period that included personal health issues and significant family transitions.

The move has drawn public attention due to its impact on two non-royal families living in nearby cottages. These cottages, previously converted from stables and managed by the Crown Estate, were rented out to private tenants for several years. In the summer of 2025, both families were informed that they would need to relocate.

While no formal eviction notices were issued, the surprised tenants were relocated to similar or better accommodations within the estate’s 4,800-acre grounds. According to a source familiar with the situation, the proximity of these cottages to the mansion meant the royals preferred not to have unrelated tenants living so close once they moved in, the report stated.

This measure was primarily taken for reasons of privacy and security, with royal sources indicating that the presence of non-family tenants so close to the new home required careful management.

Since 2022, the couple has resided at the Adelaide Cottage home, drawn by its family-friendly atmosphere and close proximity to their children’s school.

Foresrt Lodge, their new property, only four miles away from their current home, is valued at approximately $21 million and will offer them more space, privacy, and comfort as their “forever home.” The house itself boasts luxurious amenities including a tennis court, wine cellar, pond, and extensive gardens, along with a significant privacy upgrade through new landscaping features.

Financially, the Prince and Princess will pay moving rent for Forestt Lodge, with ongoing costs covered privately, reflecting their effort to minimize public expenditure associated with their living arrangements. The move also includes significant renovations and modern updates to the property, although their ethos of a “normal” family life continues—with no live-in staff planned for the residence.

Official confirmation of the relocation has come from both Kensington Palace and the Crown Estate.