Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have bid farewell to Frogmore Cottage in Windsor, as they comply with the royal directive to vacate the premises.
Following the King’s orders six months ago, the couple has now completed the removal of their belongings, ensuring a timely departure just before the looming deadline.
With their relocation to California, the Sussexes find themselves without a permanent base in the UK, potentially relying on the kindness of friends or accommodations in hotels during future visits to the country.
The burden of expenses now falls squarely on Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, amidst heightened scrutiny on royal expenditures.
The eviction notice served to the Sussexes in January, shortly after the release of Harry’s revealing memoir “Spare,” marked the beginning of the end of their tenure at Frogmore Cottage.
The charming Grade II listed property, featuring five bedrooms and exquisitely refurbished by the couple with a £2.4 million investment, is slated for rental in the near future, as per insiders familiar with the situation.
Originally bestowed upon the Duke and Duchess of Sussex as a wedding gift by Queen Elizabeth II, Frogmore Cottage’s occupancy by the couple for merely six months has come to an end.
Lieutenant-Colonel Johnny Thompson confirmed the vacation of the residence, emphasizing the royal family’s gain from the reclaimed asset.
Highlighting security concerns, Thompson stressed the importance of maintaining active occupancy in royal residences to deter potential threats such as espionage or unauthorized access.
Lieutenant-Colonel Jonathan Thompson’s notable presence in Tatler’s annual social power index, ranking third after King Charles and Queen Camilla, underscores his growing influence within royal circles.
Renowned for his gallant demeanor and close association with the monarchy, Thompson’s rising popularity among royal enthusiasts was evident during significant royal events, further solidifying his status as a prominent figure within the royal household.
Prince Harry’s recent visit to Frogmore Cottage for a phone hacking trial marked his final stay at the residence, signaling a potential end to any future accommodations within royal properties.
Acknowledging the privilege of owning homes in both the UK and the US, the Sussexes expressed gratitude for the opportunity while accepting the inevitability of relinquishing Frogmore Cottage, originally gifted by Queen Elizabeth II.
Despite sentimental attachments, the couple recognized the necessity of parting ways with the cherished residence.
In reflecting on their sporadic visits to Frogmore Cottage since departing the UK three years ago, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have come to terms with the reality of severing ties with their once-beloved abode.
The transition from royal residents to independent individuals signifies a new chapter for the Sussexes, as they navigate life without a fixed base in the UK.
As the saga of Frogmore Cottage draws to a close, the echoes of its significance linger as a reminder of the transient nature of royal privileges and the evolving dynamics within the royal family.