The Prince and Princess of Wales are ushering in the new year with a significant and deeply personal milestone: settling into what is widely anticipated to be their family's "forever home." Forest Lodge, an eight-bedroom Georgian mansion nestled within Windsor Great Park, represents a fresh chapter for William, Kate, and their three children following a period of profound challenge.
A Sanctuary for a New Chapter
The move to Forest Lodge in early 2026 coincides with Prince George's transition to senior school, marking a season of new beginnings. Royal expert Katie Nicholl notes that after "a very difficult two years," the property offers the family a tangible chance to look forward. "Forest Lodge is a new start. It’s a chance to leave that difficult period behind and very much look to the future," she explained.
The family has relocated from their previous four-bedroom home, Adelaide Cottage, which was considered a "stopgap" due to its limited space. The new Grade II listed residence, with original sections dating to the 1770s, is a substantial upgrade. It boasts period features, a ballroom, tennis court, and sweeping grounds, all while being a convenient four miles from the children's school, Lambrook.
Privacy, Security, and 'Keeping It Real' Interiors
Critical to the move was enhancing the family's privacy. Forest Lodge is situated in a secluded part of the park, protected by new gates, high-tech CCTV, wooden fencing, and additional tree planting. An exclusion zone covering approximately 150 acres has been established to deter public access.
Inside, the Princess of Wales has been hands-on with the decor, working with favoured designer Ben Pentreath. Nicholl describes Kate's style as "contemporary and classic, with neutral shades," mirroring her timeless fashion sense. However, the aesthetic is firmly family-first. "She’ll be keeping it real," Nicholl emphasised, pointing out the need for practicality with three active children who love arts, crafts, and the outdoors.
The royal couple have previously incorporated IKEA items into their children's bedrooms and are known for mixing high-end pieces with high-street finds, an approach expected to continue at Forest Lodge. The family's love for cooking, gardening, and board games will undoubtedly shape the home's atmosphere, with the kitchen set to be a central hub.
A Symbol of Modern Royalty
While the Crown Estate-owned property is valued at around £16 million, William and Kate are tenants, with reported monthly rent exceeding £15,000. The couple privately funded renovations, including new windows, doors, and internal wall adjustments, to put their stamp on the historic house.
This move away from a traditional palace setting is seen by observers as a deliberate choice. "Perhaps the Prince and Princess of Wales will become our first king and queen not to live in a castle or palace," mused Katie Nicholl. She suggests the shift to Forest Lodge could be a nod towards a more modest, modern monarchy—"royalty with a small ‘r’"—as they continue to carve a path that balances duty with a cherished family life.
