Nestled within the sprawling 655-acre Windsor Estate, Adelaide Cottage has become a cherished haven for the Wales family since their relocation from London in 2022.
This Grade II listed residence, originally constructed for Queen Adelaide, offers a refreshing contrast to the lavish lifestyle they previously enjoyed at Kensington Palace.
While Kensington was a symbol of grandeur with its 20 rooms and luxurious amenities, Adelaide Cottage embraces simplicity and a more grounded way of life.
The charm of Adelaide Cottage lies in its modesty.
With only four bedrooms, it may seem small for a royal residence, yet it has quickly transformed into a beloved family home for Prince William, Catherine, Princess of Wales, and their children, Prince George and Princess Charlotte.
The tranquility of living in Windsor Home Park, where they can enjoy privacy away from prying eyes, has made this transition worthwhile for the family.
Despite the cozy atmosphere at Adelaide, Kensington Palace remains the official residence of the Prince and Princess of Wales.
They possess a grand apartment within the palace, but the family seldom utilizes it.
In fact, Catherine reportedly spent part of her recovery after surgery at the Windsor property earlier this year, although they later moved to Amner Hall for its larger space.
Interestingly, any renovations planned for Adelaide Cottage would typically be financed by British taxpayers.
However, Prince William is reportedly hesitant about this approach.
Current discussions revolve around restoring a dilapidated brick annex adjacent to the cottage.
This annex, which is currently uninhabitable, is envisioned to become a retreat for the Queen-in-waiting and her staff, although it requires significant work before it can be put to use.
William is acutely aware of the public’s scrutiny regarding royal expenditures.
As such, he is keen on finding an appropriate way to manage any renovation costs associated with the property.
Although this project has been put on hold due to the family’s current circumstances, it is expected to be revisited when the timing feels right.
Adelaide Cottage, built in 1831 for King William IV’s wife, underwent a complete renovation by William and Catherine in 2015.
Rumors have circulated about the lavish touches added during this restoration, including gilded dolphins adorning the master bedroom walls.
This charming cottage stands in stark contrast to the opulence of their former London residence.
Recent reports suggest that the Princess of Wales is in good spirits following successful chemotherapy treatments that have eliminated her cancer.
Amidst these challenges, the Wales family continues to prioritize their time together in the sanctuary of Adelaide Cottage, often accompanied by their beloved Cocker Spaniel, Orla.
During a recent outing, Prince William shared a glimpse into their family life, revealing that Orla frequently joins them at bedtime.
While visiting Duchy College in Cornwall, he affectionately mentioned how their dog often sleeps on their bed, showcasing the warmth and intimacy of their home life.
The renovations that took place in 2015 at Adelaide Cottage introduced delightful historical elements, such as a glacier-Egyptian marble fireplace and a master bedroom ceiling adorned with dolphins.
This cozy royal retreat starkly contrasts with the bustling lifestyle they experienced at Kensington Palace, where they once had multiple reception rooms and dedicated nurseries for their children.
Though they have embraced their new life at Adelaide, the Wales family maintains their connection to Kensington Palace, retaining Apartment 1A, which boasts four stories and 20 rooms, including five reception areas and two nurseries.
Additionally, they have Amner Hall, their country estate in Norfolk, ensuring they have various options for family getaways.
As they navigate their royal duties and personal lives, the Wales family appears to have found peace and happiness in their quaint cottage, proving that sometimes, less truly is more.