In a deeply personal revelation, the Prince and Princess of Wales have made a significant and heartfelt decision for their three children that has taken many by surprise. In 2022, the family made the choice to leave their grand London residence, Kensington Palace, and move to a much more modest, yet still royal, home – Adelaide Cottage.
However, the peacefulness of their new home was recently shaken when, late one Sunday night, Windsor Castle became the target of a terrifying break-in attempt. Masked raiders scaled a 6-foot fence and stole farm vehicles, using a stolen truck to break through a security gate on the royal estate. Although King Charles and Queen Camilla were not at the residence at the time, it’s understood that William, Catherine, and their children were nearby in their home on the estate. Thankfully, there were no arrests made, and an investigation is ongoing.
Despite this unsettling event, William and Catherine have continued to prioritize their children’s well-being and have made unexpected decisions regarding their family’s lifestyle. Known for their active involvement in parenting, the couple has chosen to be hands-on in raising their children, even taking on the school run themselves rather than relying on staff.
The three royal children – Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis – may live under the public's eye but are allowed to enjoy many normal childhood activities, such as cycling, playing games, and jumping on trampolines. At Adelaide Cottage, the family has created a home where their children take part in everyday household chores, just like any other family. The children even earn pocket money by doing chores, further contributing to the sense of normalcy that William and Catherine have worked hard to establish.
This more grounded lifestyle away from the royal palace walls may help explain why the children have such down-to-earth ambitions for their futures, rather than following the traditional paths expected of members of the royal family. Insights into the children’s career aspirations have revealed some surprising desires. Despite being second in line to the throne, Prince George has reportedly expressed an interest in working in a restaurant, something he shared with a business owner after seeing a pizza oven at a local restaurant near their Norfolk home. Princess Charlotte, at just 9 years old, has shown a keen interest in becoming a nurse, which has left her parents, William and Catherine, full of pride. They’ve noted that Charlotte is a caring and determined young girl, and it wouldn’t surprise them if she pursues nursing as one of her future endeavors.
Meanwhile, young Prince Louis, who has just started his education at Lambrook School, has already expressed his career aspirations as well. Following in his father’s footsteps, Louis reportedly told family members during the King’s Coronation weekend that he wanted to be a fighter pilot when he grows up. This early interest in aviation reflects his father’s passion for flying and suggests a love for adventure runs in the family.
The move to Adelaide Cottage wasn’t just motivated by a desire for privacy or normalcy; the family also wanted to be closer to the late Queen Elizabeth. But the cottage offers much more than just a connection to the late monarch – it provides the Wales family with greater space and privacy. Unlike their previous home, Kensington Palace, Adelaide Cottage is a four-bedroom property that doesn’t have space for live-in staff. This allows William, Catherine, and their children to enjoy their time together without the constant presence of staff members. Some staff still come during the day to help out, but the family is able to fully enjoy their time at the estate, surrounded by the privacy and tranquility of Home Park.
The family has expressed their deep happiness with their new living situation, relishing the peaceful atmosphere and the ability to come and go without being watched. For the Wales family, the downsize from Kensington Palace has proven to be a worthwhile and rewarding change, giving them the chance to create a more private, family-focused lifestyle.