Amid Princess Catherine’s cancer battle, her and her family’s choice to stay at their serene Adelaide Cottage garners widespread support for its privacy and charm. Public sentiment echoes admiration for their “smart” and discreet choice of living away from prying eyes.
In the quaint embrace of Windsor’s Adelaide Cottage, Princess Catherine, along with Prince William and their three children—Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis—forge moments far removed from the public eye. Their move to the 200-year-old pink dwelling in 2022, a decision initially propelled by a desire for privacy, has now turned into a sanctuary for recovery as the Princess of Wales undergoes cancer treatment.
Nestled within the serene expanses of Windsor Home Park, the 655-acre estate offers a stark contrast to the family’s previous residence at Kensington Palace. The cottage’s charm, history, and “domestic” architecture underscore a lineage of royal occupants that traces back to its construction in 1831 as a summer retreat for Queen Adelaide.
With its picturesque grounds and close proximity to the Lambrook School—where the Wales children are students—and stables for their equestrian pursuits, Adelaide Cottage provides an ideal backdrop for the family’s endeavors towards a semblance of normal life amid trying times.
The public’s reaction to the family’s choice of residence during this challenging period has been overwhelmingly supportive, with people praising the move for its discretion and simplicity. One fan praised, “I think their move to Adelaide Cottage was a smart move. No servants live with [them]. No leaks.”
One comment from a social media user seemed to poke fun at the Prince and Princess’s living quarters: “So, the @RoyalFamily exiled the [Sussexes] to Frogmore. But, since they bring their star power everywhere they go… the place is now cool to live at… & of course, @KensingtonRoyal had to copy it because that’s all they know how to do 😂#MonkeySeeMonkeyDo.”
However, the majority leaned in favor of the residence with another fan stating, “The fact that Catherine & William were happy at the little cottage speaks volumes. They wanted their privacy together – a lot like now in Adelaide Cottage. I wish them both every happiness.”
Downsizing from the grandeur of Kensington Palace to a more intimate setting marked a significant lifestyle shift for the Prince and Princess of Wales. Despite the logistical adjustments, which included the relocation of their trusted nanny, Maria Borrallo, the Cambridges embraced this change, finding solace in Windsor’s tranquility.
The move not only brought them closer to nature and Princess Catherine’s parents but also signified a commitment to providing a grounded upbringing for their children away from the limelight.
With its narratives of architectural reuse and royal legacies, Adelaide Cottage encapsulates a blend of public heritage and private comfort. Its proximity to significant royal landmarks, including the nearby Frogmore Cottage and the main Windsor Castle, underscores the interconnectedness of royal residences while emphasizing the unique position of the home as a haven in the royal family’s real estate portfolio.
Before settling in Adelaide Cottage, Princess Catherine lived in a variety of homes that reflected her journey from an ordinary civilian to the Duchess of Cambridge with each residence marking a significant chapter in her life.
Bucklebury Manor—her childhood home—grounded her in a setting of familial warmth while St Salvator’s Hall was the place where she experienced university life, and where love blossomed between her and Prince William amid the hall’s gothic splendor.
Old Church Street in Chelsea served as her post-graduate haven—shared with her sister Pippa Middleton—offering a glimpse into her life before royal engagements took precedence. Her temporary abode at Bodorgan Hall on the Anglesey coast allowed for a private retreat while Prince William served with the RAF.
1A Kensington Palace, which boasted 20 rooms, signified her full embrace into the royal fold while Anmer Hall, a 10-bedroom Georgian mansion, was a gift from the late Queen Elizabeth II.
As we previously reported on March 5, 2024, Princess Catherine was spotted with her mom near Windsor where she is recovering from her abdominal surgery.
Amidst curiosity and concern for Princess Catherine’s health, the Palace assured the public of her steady progress, kindly requesting privacy during this time. However, people were still relieved to see pictures of the Princess near Windsor accompanied by her mother, after she was spotted for the first time in over two months since her surgery.
The palace announced that the Princess would be “unlikely to return to public duties until after Easter,” which falls on March 31st this year. Until then, it seems like the Princess has decided to reside in their family’s residence, Adelaide Cottage in Windsor.
Adelaide Cottage – a simpler, more private residence for the Cambridges, surrounded by nature, close to the Queen, and the children are away from the busy hustle of KP and London. Close to desirable day schools, and closer to the Middleton family. No reno needed. Brilliant. pic.twitter.com/3Bh2bVAZch
— J E May / Duchess Marmalade (@storiesbyjemay) August 21, 2022
Adelaide Cottage, nestled within the serene Windsor estate, is a perfect example of a quieter, more intimate side of royal living. Chosen by Prince William and his wife, this residence offers a stark contrast to their bustling London base at Kensington Palace.
The cottage, nearly 200 years old, is a perfect balance between elegance and simplicity. With classic marble fireplaces and a dignified facade, it is known for its historical charm.
The house offers the Cambridges a serene and private hidden place surrounded by nature. Away from busy loud London, and close to the Middleton children’s school, it is a perfect place to recover.
It’s been over two months since the Princess of Wales was last seen in public during the royal family’s traditional Christmas morning service at Sandringham last year.
Following this, Kensington Palace announced on January 17, 2024, that the Princess was admitted to the hospital for “planned abdominal surgery,” necessitating a period of rest. Consequently, Princess Catherine’s public engagements have been paused, with expectations set for her return to royal duties after Easter.
During her last public appearance before the surgery, the Princess was seen walking to the St. Mary Magdalene Church in the royal family’s estate in Norfolk, England. She was among royal family members, including Prince William and their three children: Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis.
Photos from the Christmas service showed the Princess in a festive mood as she walked hand-in-hand with her family, greeted spectators, and strolled alongside King Charles III.
The Princess of Wales was photographed smiling walking alongside her children and Mia Tindall, with Prince William trailing behind. At one point, the Princess was captured greeting spectators while carrying a bouquet of roses.
For the holiday occasion, Princess Catherine was elegantly dressed in a long, vibrant blue coat by Alexander McQueen, meticulously tailored with a cinched waist and pronounced shoulders, complemented by a deep blue turtleneck sweater underneath.
She paired her striking coat with dark blue suede knee-high boots, featuring a sleek block heel and pointed toe.
Her attire was further enhanced by a chic fascinator adorned with a bold bow and crossed arrows, set against her elegantly styled half-up, half-down hair.
Paying homage to Princess Diana, she completed her look with the late Princess’s iconic sapphire and diamond drop earrings.
On January 29, 2024, a spokesperson from Kensington Palace announced that Princess Catherine had been discharged from The London Clinic and would continue her recovery at home in Windsor. “She is making good progress,” the statement assured.
During Kate’s hospital stay, William put his official duties on hold. He has since returned to resume his engagements after ensuring Kate was comfortably settled in the home they share in Windsor.
