Why Prince William will ditch Buckingham Palace when he becomes King

Prince William and Kate Middleton's reported move to Forest Lodge in Windsor just got a major upgrade: insiders say it’s not just a pit stop, it’s their forever family home. 

The Waleses, with Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis, are expected to relocate to the eight-bed, Grade II–listed property by year’s end, marking a “fresh start” outside London.

And when William eventually takes the throne, he still plans to stay put. According to The Daily Mail’s Rebecca English, a source says it’s William’s “intention” to remain at Forest Lodge even after he accedes: “This is for the long term.” 

The heir is also tipped to take a more “pragmatic” approach to Buckingham Palace, using it for work when necessary, but not as a permanent residence.

If that holds, William would be the first monarch since medieval times not to live in a royal castle or palace full-time, favouring privacy and a more low-key, family-centric routine in Windsor. 

By contrast, King Charles and Queen Camilla primarily base themselves at Clarence House, with expectations Charles will shift to Buckingham Palace once renovations finally wrap.

Windsor, not Westminster, looks set to be the heart of the next reign with school runs, green space and a quieter rhythm guiding the future king’s home life.

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