Joshua Goldman
Joshua Goldman
min read · August 18, 2025 · Entertainment

Royal Residence Rethink: Will Buckingham Palace Become a Museum?

Forest Lodge, where William and the family 'will take up permanent residence'

ROYAL RUMBLE: Prince William and Kate's Shocking Plans to Ditch Buckingham Palace for a Cozy Cottage

In a bombshell move that has sent shockwaves through the Royal Family, Prince William and his wife Kate have revealed their intention to leave behind the grandeur of Buckingham Palace and settle into a humble cottage in Windsor Great Park. The news has sparked widespread concern about the future of the iconic palace, which has been undergoing a £369 million refurbishment.

According to sources close to the couple, Forest Lodge, a Georgian mansion dating back to the 1770s, is their chosen haven. The eight-bedroom lodge boasts elaborate plaster cornices and ceiling decoration, exquisite marble fireplaces, and a half-barrel-vaulted ceiling – a far cry from the austerity of Kate's current four-bedroom home at Adelaide Cottage.

William, Kate and their three children are set to move to the 300-year-old home later this year

But don't be fooled; this move isn't just about finding a new pad for the Wales family. Insiders claim that William and Kate are determined to raise their children away from the public eye, and Forest Lodge offers them the perfect chance to do so. "They want to continue to do the school run, even if they are king and queen," reveals one source.

The couple's decision to leave Buckingham Palace has sparked concerns about the viability of the Royal Family's London residence. With no monarch in situ – or even in proximity – will people still feel the need for a £369 million refurbishment? The answer is far from clear-cut.

One insider notes, "The late Queen said she had to be seen to be believed. I just hope that the Prince of Wales can find the right balance between raising his family away from the public glare at Windsor with the presence required of him as a future, and eventual, head of state."

The choice of Forest Lodge as their long-term family home raises questions about the future of Buckingham Palace after William becomes King

William's decision to downsize is also seen as a nod to his father, King Charles III, who has been known for his more modest tastes. But make no mistake – this move is about William and Kate creating their own private kingdom in Windsor Great Park.

The couple will be paying market rent for Forest Lodge, although the exact amount remains secret due to commercial confidentiality agreements. The property is owned by the Crown Estate, which also owns Prince Andrew's vast 30-room Royal Lodge just a short drive away.

Sources close to the Wales family claim that they have already begun renovations on the lodge, which will include internal and external works. "They are funding it themselves," reveals one insider, "and hope to move in by the end of the year."

Prince George, Catherine, Princess of Wales, Prince Louis, Prince William and Princess Charlotte arrive for a settling in afternoon at Lambrook School, near Ascot, England

But what about Buckingham Palace? The palace's £369 million refurbishment is due to be completed in 2027, when King Charles III will be 78 years old. Will William and Kate really want to take up residence there then? Or will they opt for a more modern, and perhaps less traditional approach to royal living?

The answer lies with Prince William himself, who has always been known for his pragmatic approach to life. "He wants to open Buckingham Palace to a greater number of tourists each year," reveals one source. "This would generate funds for its future upkeep while lessening pressure on the public purse."

And what about the Royal Family's other properties? Sandringham and Balmoral, which have been private royal estates since the days of Queen Victoria, are also set to undergo changes. Insiders claim that William wants to see these stately homes opened to visitors on more days than in the past.

Royal insiders say William and Kate are hoping for a 'fresh start' at Forest Lodge following a challenging period for the Royal Family

But make no mistake – this isn't just about saving money or opening up the Royal Family's homes to the public. It's about creating a new kind of monarchy – one that is fit for the 21st century.

As one insider notes, "William and Kate want to create their own private kingdom in Windsor Great Park. They are tired of living in a palace and want something more intimate, more family-friendly."

The question on everyone's lips now is: will they succeed? Only time will tell.

Forest Lodge is a considerable upgrade from the cosy four-bedroom Adelaide Cottage

Prince William and Princess Kate are set to move their family from Adelaide Cottage to a new 'forever home' by the end of the year, an insider has said