Prince William and Kate Middleton are preparing for yet another move — but this time, their relocation has sparked controversy after two families were forced to vacate their homes to make way for the royal couple.
The Prince and Princess of Wales, both 43, along with their children Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis, will soon leave their current residence at Adelaide Cottage, where they’ve lived for the past three years. The family is set to move into Forest Lodge, an expansive eight-bedroom property within Windsor Great Park, later this year.
Families Asked to Leave Ahead of Royal Move
According to reports from the Daily Mail, two families living in cottages adjacent to Forest Lodge were asked to leave the properties earlier this summer. The cottages, once converted from old stables, had been rented out through the Crown Estate.
While no official eviction notices were issued, sources say the residents were told they would need to vacate before the Wales family’s arrival. The Crown Estate later relocated them into similar or better housing elsewhere within the Great Park.
Still, the sudden move has been described as “unexpected” by those familiar with the situation. A source told the Daily Mail:
“Those houses are very close to the lodge, so they’re not going to want any Tom, Dick or Harry living in those houses if there are going to be royals there.”
This has fueled public criticism, with some accusing the royals of displacing ordinary families for the sake of privacy and prestige.
Privacy Preparations and Renovations Underway
In preparation for the high-profile move, new shrubs and privacy screens have been planted around Forest Lodge to shield the family from prying eyes. Minor renovations are also being carried out on the property, which Prince William and Princess Kate are reportedly paying for themselves.
Forest Lodge, previously known as Holly Grove, sits within the Crown Estate and has a long history as a private residence. It is widely expected that the family will remain there even when Prince William ascends the throne.
William, who receives around $30 million annually from the Duchy of Cornwall Estate, has been funding these renovations privately.
Why the Move Matters
The Wales family’s move is significant for several reasons. For one, it marks another shift in their quest for greater privacy and security outside London. In 2022, the family left Kensington Palace for Adelaide Cottage, where their three children began attending Lambrook School in nearby Ascot.
At the time, royal insiders said the couple wanted a quieter life for their children, away from the public glare of London. Friends have long said the family’s “happy place” remains their Norfolk estate, Anmer Hall, but Forest Lodge is expected to serve as their main residence for at least the next decade.
The move has reignited conversations about the privileges of the monarchy — particularly at a time when ordinary families across the UK face housing pressures. While supporters argue that the Wales family deserves privacy and security, critics claim the forced relocation of neighboring tenants highlights the vast gap between royal privilege and everyday struggles.
Looking Ahead
Kensington Palace confirmed the move earlier this year, stating only:
“The Wales family will move house later this year.”
With privacy measures already in place and renovations underway, the family’s relocation appears certain — though it remains shadowed by the controversy of two families unexpectedly losing their homes.
For Prince William and Princess Kate, Forest Lodge represents another step toward the life they envision for their children. But for critics, it’s a reminder that royal privilege often comes at the expense of others.