When William and Kate Middleton decided to move their family from London to Windsor, many questions arose about their children's future home. However, despite the change, it doesn't seem that their children will inherit their parents' current residence, Adelaide Cottage.
The main reason lies in the fact that this property isn't their private property, but rather forms part of the Crown Estate. This way, it is a residence granted as a grace-and-favor home for the fulfillment of their royal duties.
Kensington Palace admits that the rumors are true
Historic residences such as Royal Lodge and Bagshot Park shared this same status. Over time, they have come to be officially leased to other members of the royal family, such as Princes Andrew and Edward.
In this context, in the future Prince George could assume responsibility for the Duchy of Cornwall. This would grant access to an impressive portfolio of properties spread across 23 counties in England, Wales, and the Isles of Scilly.
Nevertheless, for now, there are no plans for the current residence to pass directly to their children. This decision is due to the fact that the property is part of the Crown Estate and isn't privately owned. This limits its hereditary transfer.
Interestingly, Highgrove House, located in Gloucestershire and part of that duchy, is today the property that technically belongs to William. Thus, by moving from their apartment to Kensington Palace in the countryside, William and Kate chose to sacrifice some urban top-level.
This decision has much to do with the intention of the Prince and Princess of Wales to offer their children a more conventional childhood. Ailsa Anderson, former press secretary to Elizabeth II, explained that "their parents want to protect them and give them as much privacy and free time as possible."
Kate Middleton wants the best for her children
Kate, raised in the countryside, seems to find in Windsor the ideal setting to relive her own childhood and offer her children a similar life. Adelaide Cottage, with its pink façade and historic character, remains out of the public eye.
The family could have other options, such as Anmer Hall, their residence in Norfolk with ten bedrooms that they received as a wedding gift. Nevertheless, for now there are no plans to move, and with the children already enrolled in school, the most logical thing is for them to stay there.
This property, which underwent a multi-million euro renovation before their move, has been the setting for very intimate family moments. Kate showed this by sharing an emotional video during her preventive chemotherapy treatment, where she was seen with William.
The choice of their residence reflects Prince William and Kate Middleton's commitment to balancing their lives with as normal a childhood as possible for their children. They protect them from public scrutiny without giving up family history and tradition.