Duke and Duchess of Cambridge Plan to Move to New Home in Windsor

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are reportedly making plans to move into a new home in Windsor, bringing them closer to the Queen and the Duchess's family.

According to The Telegraph, the couple, who currently split their time between Kensington Palace in London and Amner Hall in Norfolk, see Windsor as the perfect place to raise their three children.

This relocation signifies their increasing role within the royal family.

Over the past year, the Duke and Duchess have taken on more royal duties, while the Queen has been gradually handing over some of her workload.

With Prince Harry and Meghan's absence, other senior royals have had to step up.

As a result, the move to Windsor will bring the Cambridges closer to both the Queen and Catherine's parents in Bucklebury.

Sources reveal that Fort Belvedere, a Grade II listed house with a tower in Windsor Great Park, has caught the couple's attention.

Built in 1721 and renovated in the 19th century, the fort was once used by Queen Victoria as a tea house.

Prince Edward and Wallace Simpson also resided there before relocating to France.

Additionally, the couple is considering Ludgrove Boarding School for Prince George, which is conveniently close to Fort Belvedere.

However, the Duchess prefers Lambrook near Ascot because it offers a rural setting that ensures privacy.

The proximity of Catherine's parents, Carol and Michael Middleton, who live in Bucklebury, will be advantageous for school runs and other activities.

Despite these benefits, some close to the couple are surprised by the choice of Berkshire as the proper countryside.

However, the Cambridges believe they can commute from Windsor to west London in just 25 minutes.

The decision to establish a permanent base in Windsor aligns with the presence of other royals residing in the area.

The Queen has been living at Windsor Castle since the start of the pandemic, while Prince Edward and Sophie live nearby at Bagshot Park.

Princess Eugenie and her husband, Jack Brooksbank, have taken over Frogmore Cottage, previously occupied by Prince Harry and Meghan.

Furthermore, Prince Andrew continues to reside at the Royal Lodge.

This move could prove strategic as the monarchy prepares for future changes.

Currently, the Cambridges divide their time between Kensington Palace and Anmer Hall.

The latter, located on the Sandringham estate, was a wedding gift from the Queen.

Following the Duke of Edinburgh's passing last year, having the Cambridges nearby would undoubtedly provide support for the Queen.

She shares a close relationship with William, and during his time at Eton College, he often had Sunday lunch with his grandparents at the castle.

Windsor has long been a weekend retreat for the Queen, offering respite from Buckingham Palace.

However, she now plans to make it her permanent residence.

This decision brings her closer to her youngest son, Prince Edward, and his wife, Sophie, as well as Prince Andrew and his ex-wife, Sarah Ferguson.

With the addition of the Cambridges, most of the Queen's immediate family will be nearby, ready to support her.

Kate has always spoken fondly of the county where she grew up, and the family frequently visits her parents who live in Bucklebury Manor.

The Duchess's brother, James, has also reportedly purchased a home in the same village.

It seems that Catherine's desire for a house in the countryside, surrounded by children and dogs, is being fulfilled.

It is important to note that these changes will not affect the couple's setup at Kensington Palace.

The palace will remain their home and office even after they become the Prince and Princess of Wales.

However, Anne Mahal, their current residence, is quite far from London and Catherine's family, which plays a significant role in their children's lives.

In December, the Queen expressed concern for Prince William's safety and urged him to stop flying helicopters with his family.

She is worried that an accident could jeopardize the line of succession.

Although senior royals are typically not allowed to fly together, exceptions have been made since the birth of William's children, allowing for more family time.

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge's move to Windsor signifies a new chapter in their lives.

It brings them closer to their royal duties, the Queen, and Catherine's family.

The choice of Windsor as their new home reflects their desire for a secure and private environment to raise their children, mirroring the Duchess's own upbringing.