5 Major Royal Family Home Moves Shaking Up The Monarchy's Property Portfolio In 2025

The British Royal Family’s property portfolio is undergoing a dramatic and unprecedented shake-up in 2025, marking a significant shift in the monarchy’s geographical base and future direction. This series of high-profile moves, driven by the new reign of King Charles III, security concerns, and a desire for greater privacy by the Prince and Princess of Wales, signals a definitive end to the post-Elizabethan era of royal living. The changes affect major residences across England, from the historic grandeur of Buckingham Palace to the secluded estates of Windsor.

As of late 2025, the most significant change involves the heir and his family. Prince William and Princess Kate have officially relocated to a new, more private residence, solidifying their commitment to the Windsor area but moving away from their previous, more modest dwelling. This strategic repositioning is not just about real estate; it’s about establishing the future King and Queen Consort in a location that better supports their demanding roles and provides increased security and stability for their children.

The Prince and Princess of Wales: From Cottage to 'Forever Home'

The most attention-grabbing move involves the Prince and Princess of Wales. After a challenging period, which included Princess Kate’s highly publicised health treatment, the family has sought a new, more secure, and permanent base in the Windsor area.

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William and Kate Move to Forest Lodge

Prince William, Princess Kate, and their three children—Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis—have relocated (or are in the final stages of relocating before the end of 2025) to Forest Lodge in Windsor Great Park. This move is significant as it is being widely described as their "forever home," suggesting a long-term commitment to the property and the surrounding area.

• New Residence: Forest Lodge, a Grade II listed Georgian mansion.
• Location: Nestled in a secluded, private area of the 4,800-acre Windsor Great Park.
• Size: The property boasts eight bedrooms, offering considerably more space than their previous home.
• Historical Context: Built in the 1770s, Forest Lodge previously served as the official residence of the Deputy Ranger of Windsor Great Park until 1937.

The move from their previous residence, Adelaide Cottage, was reportedly driven by a need for enhanced security and greater privacy for the family. Adelaide Cottage, while charming, was smaller and closer to public paths, making it less ideal for a family with three young children and the future King. Forest Lodge, being a larger, more secluded property within the protected Crown Estate, offers the increased security measures deemed necessary for the senior working royals.

This relocation keeps the family close to their children’s school and King Charles III at Windsor Castle, maintaining a crucial geographical link to the heart of the monarchy’s operations in England.

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King Charles III’s Residential Dilemma and Strategic Purchases

The accession of King Charles III has naturally triggered a re-evaluation of the entire royal property portfolio, yet his own main residence remains a point of interest and delay. The King’s commitment to a streamlined monarchy and his personal preference for certain homes are shaping the future of royal living.

Buckingham Palace Move Delayed

Despite being the official residence of the monarch, King Charles III and Queen Camilla have not yet moved into Buckingham Palace and will remain primarily at Clarence House throughout 2025. The main reason for this delay is the extensive, multi-million-pound reservicing programme currently underway at the Palace. This major renovation, which addresses essential services like plumbing, wiring, and heating, is expected to continue for several years.

While Buckingham Palace remains the administrative heart of the monarchy and the location for major state events, the King and Queen prefer the smaller, more intimate setting of Clarence House, which they have called home for many years. This decision reflects a practical approach to the transition, avoiding the disruption of moving into a major construction site.

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A New Acquisition Near Ray Mill House

In a lesser-known but strategically important move, King Charles III made a new property purchase in March 2025. This acquisition is located near Ray Mill House, Queen Camilla's private home in Wiltshire. The King reportedly acquired the neighbouring property to prevent it from being sold to a private buyer who might compromise the Queen’s security or privacy. This strategic use of the royal property budget underscores the priority placed on Queen Camilla’s comfort and security, ensuring her continued access to her private sanctuary.

The Forced Relocation of Prince Andrew from Royal Lodge

Another major piece of the royal property puzzle involves the long-standing saga of Prince Andrew and his residence. The King's desire to rationalise the property portfolio and reduce costs has led to a significant, and often contentious, change for the Duke of York.

The Royal Lodge Situation

Prince Andrew has reportedly agreed to vacate the sprawling Royal Lodge in Windsor Great Park. This 30-room mansion has been his home for many years, but the King has been keen for him to move to a smaller, less expensive property. Royal Lodge requires extensive and costly maintenance, which the King is keen to avoid funding for non-working royals.

The proposed new home for Prince Andrew is on the Sandringham Estate in Norfolk. This move, expected to take place in the New Year, is part of a broader strategy to assign high-value royal residences only to senior, working members of the Royal Family. This decision is a clear example of King Charles III's focus on efficiency and cost management within the monarchy.

The Future of Royal Residences: Downsizing and Consolidation

The collective series of moves and changes in 2025—William and Kate’s upgrade to Forest Lodge, King Charles’s delay at Buckingham Palace, and Prince Andrew’s relocation—all point toward a distinct future for the British monarchy’s property holdings. This new era is defined by a desire for practicality, increased security, and a consolidation of assets around key hubs.

The shift of the Prince and Princess of Wales from Kensington Palace as their primary home to the Windsor area demonstrates a clear preference for a more rural, private family life outside the intense spotlight of central London. Their new "forever home" at Forest Lodge is a testament to their commitment to raising their children, the future of the monarchy, in a more stable and secluded environment. This strategic move allows William and Kate to balance their intense official duties with the need for a sanctuary away from the public eye.

Meanwhile, the King’s slow transition to Buckingham Palace and his desire to reallocate residences like Royal Lodge show a clear intent to modernise the monarchy's real estate footprint. The vast collection of royal residences, many of which are Grade I or Grade II listed historical buildings, are expensive to maintain. By consolidating and reassigning properties based on the working status and role of each family member, King Charles III is ensuring that the property portfolio supports a leaner, more focused monarchy for the 21st century. The moves of 2025 are therefore not random; they are a calculated and necessary step in securing the long-term future and public perception of the Crown Estate.