In a potential move that could transform their royal lifestyle, Prince William and Princess Catherine are rumored to be eyeing one of the most storied and secluded estates in Britain — the majestic Fort Belvedere.
Barely three years after settling into the cozy charm of Adelaide Cottage in Windsor, reports from the Daily Mail suggest the Prince and Princess of Wales may be preparing for a more expansive, history-rich residence for themselves and their three children — Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis.
A Home Steeped in Royal History
Tucked away in the lush greenery of Windsor Great Park, Fort Belvedere is no ordinary royal home. Built in the 1820s and originally called Shrubs Hill Tower, the Gothic-style retreat was designed by Jeffrey Wyattville, the architect behind major renovations at Windsor Castle.
During Queen Victoria’s reign, it served as her tea house, and later opened briefly to the public. But its most famous — and infamous — chapter came in the 20th century, when King Edward VIII made it his personal sanctuary.
It was here, in the drawing room, that Edward signed his abdication papers in 1936, giving up the throne to marry American divorcée Wallis Simpson. That fateful moment turned Fort Belvedere into a symbol of love, sacrifice, and the weight of the crown.
From Royal Drama to Private Luxury
After Edward’s exile, the estate stood silent for nearly two decades before becoming the home of Gerald Lascelles, a cousin of Queen Elizabeth II. In the early 1980s, Canadian billionaire Galen Weston took over the lease, transforming it into a private haven while preserving its romantic, slightly mysterious charm.
Today, the Weston family still maintains the lease, but with Galen’s passing in 2021, speculation has grown over who might next inhabit the 59-acre estate.
Why the Wales Family Might Move
For William and Catherine, the appeal is clear. The fort offers privacy, security, and a grandeur that aligns with their increasing responsibilities as they step closer to the throne — particularly while King Charles III continues cancer treatment.
The grounds boast an outdoor swimming pool, tennis courts, and endless space for the Wales children to roam — a perfect blend of luxury and family-friendly charm.
More Than a Move — A Statement
If the move happens, it would be more than a change of address. Fort Belvedere is a physical embodiment of royal legacy — a place where the echoes of history meet the responsibilities of the future.
Whether the Wales family takes up residence or not, the estate remains a jewel of the Crown Estate — a reminder of the monarchy’s enduring ability to evolve while holding onto its past.
