The Wales Family’s Transition to Adelaide Cottage on the Windsor Estate
Relocation to Adelaide Cottage
In late summer 2022, Prince William and Kate Middleton, along with their children Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis, relocated from Kensington Palace in London to Adelaide Cottage, located within the Windsor Castle estate. This move symbolized a shift towards a more private yet accessible environment for the royal family.
A Modest yet Strategic Choice
Adelaide Cottage, with its four bedrooms and two stories, provides a more modest living space by royal standards. Yet, it offers essential privacy features with seven gated entrances and exits, allowing the family to maintain a level of normalcy despite their public roles. The transfer was especially timely for Kate’s private health struggle with cancer in 2024.
The Enigmatic Adelaide Lodge
Adjacent to their new home lies Adelaide Lodge, a larger but currently uninhabitable structure due to foundational deficiencies. Although the Lodge is tantalizingly close to Adelaide Cottage, little is known about its past uses or any future plans for renovation.
Potential for Future Expansion
As their children—George, Charlotte, and Louis—grow older, the proximity of Adelaide Lodge suggests it could someday be integrated to accommodate their expanding needs, though no official plans have been announced.
A Historical Perspective
Originally built in 1831 for Queen Adelaide by William IV, Adelaide Cottage has a rich history, once serving as the home of Peter Townsend, a notable figure in royal lore. It underwent significant renovations in 2015, enhancing its suitability for modern living while preserving its historic essence.
A New Chapter for the Wales Children
The decision to move was largely influenced by the desire for a more secure and conducive environment for the children’s education and growth. Friends of the family have noted the benefits of living in Windsor, highlighting the freedom for the children to play and ride their bikes in the secure and expansive estate grounds.