The Princess of Wales signals a shift with her latest decision
Catherine has made a choice that could influence her husband William’s path to the throne. The couple are leaving Adelaide Cottage and moving to Forest Lodge, a larger home on the Windsor Great Park estate.
Royal commentator Shane Watson believes the move speaks volumes about the future king and queen’s priorities. Writing in The Times, he suggested the decision reflects where they are in life, and what they now consider less important. According to him, their choice represents a kind of “smart downsizing,” a step that aligns them with the values of a sustainability-minded middle class rather than the grandeur traditionally expected of royals.
Watson added that Forest Lodge is set to become their permanent family base, even once William takes the throne. Instead of preparing to shift into a palace, they have chosen a more modest setting.
In drawing contrasts, the commentator pointed to the nearby Royal Lodge, the sprawling 31-bedroom residence occupied by Prince Andrew. He noted that the Waleses would not want to move there, both for reasons of scale and style.
Catherine’s decision comes at a time of personal transition. After her cancer treatment, she has placed greater emphasis on privacy, health, and normal family life. Living in the countryside, with daily access to nature, fits into that vision. Watson observed that her illness may have reshaped her outlook, leaving her unwilling to simply play the role of princess as tradition demands. Instead, this move reflects a deeper shift towards authenticity and away from the rigid world once defined by William’s late mother.
