Sarah Ferguson is said to have once coveted Forest Lodge—the grand estate soon to be the “forever home” of Prince William, Princess Kate, and their three children.
The eight-bedroom Georgian manor, set within Windsor Great Park and surrounded by other royal residences, has long carried allure. In 1998, two years after divorcing Prince Andrew, the Duchess of York reportedly hoped to make the 300-year-old property her fresh start.
However, her plans fell apart after Prince Philip opposed the move, according to the Mail. By 2008, Fergie instead returned to live at nearby Royal Lodge with her former husband, where she has remained ever since. Her representatives declined to comment when approached by GB News.
A Manor with Distinguished Tenants
Forest Lodge has housed several notable residents over the years. As a grace-and-favour property, it was once home to equerries and private secretaries of the monarchy. In the 1990s, Princess Margaret’s private secretary, Lord Napier, lived there.
Most recently, the estate was occupied by Alex Fitzgibbons and his wife, Swedish-American investor Cristina Stenbeck. Fitzgibbons, chairman of luxury events firm Fait Accompli, is well known for orchestrating high-profile royal celebrations. He oversaw William and Kate’s wedding after-party at Buckingham Palace in 2011, Pippa Middleton’s reception in 2017, and Harry and Meghan’s festivities at Frogmore Cottage the following year.
William and Kate Prepare to Move In
Kensington Palace has confirmed that the Wales family will move into Forest Lodge later this year. Valued today at around £16 million, the property underwent a major £1.5 million restoration in 2001.
William and Kate have already lodged a planning application to continue both internal and external renovations. According to The Sun, they are funding all costs themselves, ensuring the move won’t fall on taxpayers. The couple also intend to continue their tradition of living without full-time staff in residence.
Tensions with Neighbours
While the move represents a new chapter for the Prince and Princess of Wales, it has not been without controversy. Reports suggest that two neighbouring families were asked to relocate ahead of the family’s arrival, adding a touch of unease to an otherwise celebratory transition.