A Look Inside the Royal Family's Adelaide Cottage
Nestled within the lush 655-acre Windsor estate, the Royal Family's Adelaide Cottage has been the home of the Wales family since their move from London in 2022. This Grade II listed gem, originally built for Queen Adelaide, offers a more grounded and green upbringing for Princess Charlotte, Prince Louis, and their older brother, Prince George.
While their previous residence, Kensington Palace, exuded opulence with its 20 rooms and four stories, featuring underfloor heating, encrypted Wi-Fi, a TV projector, and even a panic room, Adelaide Cottage marks a step toward simplicity.
Prince William and Catherine, Princess of Wales, have embraced their Windsor country home, which has become a special place for their family. Although it’s small and quaint, with only four bedrooms, which is quite modest for a royal residence, it has become the Wales family home in every sense. The ability to live in the privacy of Windsor Home Park, without being overlooked, makes the downsizing from Kensington Palace worthwhile on every level.
When it comes to official matters, Kensington Palace remains the official residence of the Prince and Princess of Wales, who have an expansive apartment within the grand palace. However, the family rarely uses it. Earlier this year, it was reported that Catherine spent some time at the Windsor property during her immediate post-surgical recovery. For now, the Wales household has relocated to Anmer Hall due to its larger size.
Typically, renovations at Adelaide Cottage would be funded by British taxpayers, but the Prince of Wales is reportedly hesitant about this idea. The plans are said to involve restoring a rundown brick annex near the cottage, which would serve as a retreat for the Queen in waiting and her staff. This quiet, spacious red brick building next door is currently uninhabitable and requires extensive renovations to be put to use.
Discussions have been ongoing regarding the use of the property and the overall grounds of the cottage. William is very aware of public scrutiny concerning the Royal Family's spending habits and is keen to find the best way to cover any renovation costs. Unfortunately, the project has been put on the back burner for now due to the family's current situation but will be revisited when the timing is right.
Originally built in 1831 for King William IV's wife, this namesake cottage was fully renovated by William and Catherine in 2015. There have long been rumors about this restoration project, which is said to have included gilded dolphins and ropes adorning the master bedroom walls. This comes amid reports suggesting that the Princess of Wales is in good spirits, as her chemotherapy treatments have successfully eliminated cancer.
The Wales couple tends to guard their precious family time in the sanctuary of their home at Adelaide Cottage, alongside their beloved family dog, Orla the cocker spaniel. Recently, during an outing, William opened up about their bedtime routine. He revealed that Orla often sleeps on the bed with him and Catherine.
Renovated in 2015, the cottage features charming historic touches, including a glacier Egyptian marble fireplace and a master bedroom ceiling adorned with dolphins. This cozy royal hideaway contrasts sharply with their former lavish lifestyle in bustling London. Gone are the five reception rooms, multiple bedrooms, dressing rooms, and dedicated nurseries.
Despite their new lifestyle, William and Catherine still retain Apartment 1A within Kensington Palace, where they lived before moving to Adelaide Cottage. This lavish home covers four stories with 20 rooms in total, including five reception rooms, three bedrooms, dressing rooms, two nurseries, and nine staff bedrooms. They also have Anmer Hall, their country home in Norfolk.
Overall, Adelaide Cottage reflects a simpler, more family-oriented life for the Wales family while maintaining their royal responsibilities.
