Nestled within the peaceful grounds of Windsor Home Park, Adelaide Cottage is a historic royal residence that combines rich heritage with modern family life. Located just a short distance from Windsor Castle, this quaint four-bedroom cottage has been the primary home of Prince William, the Prince of Wales, and Catherine, Princess of Wales, since 2022. It also houses their three children: Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis.
A Historical Gem
Adelaide Cottage was built in 1831 for Queen Adelaide, wife of King William IV. Designed by architect Jeffry Wyatville, the cottage originally formed part of the estate surrounding Windsor Castle. It was constructed using materials salvaged from the Royal Lodge, a nearby royal residence that had been demolished the year before. The cottage’s architectural style reflects its picturesque origins, featuring unique decorative touches such as gilt dolphins and rope designs on the ceiling of the principal bedroom — details reportedly repurposed from the royal yacht HMY Royal George.
Over its nearly two centuries of history, Adelaide Cottage has hosted various notable royal figures. Queen Victoria herself was known to visit for tea and breakfast. In the 1940s, Group Captain Peter Townsend, an equerry to King George VI and a key figure in royal history, also lived there. Despite its royal connections, the cottage has maintained a modest, homey atmosphere rather than the grandeur of larger royal palaces.
A Family-Focused Home
In recent years, Adelaide Cottage underwent renovations to adapt to the needs of a modern family. The property offers privacy and comfort, with multiple gated entrances providing secure access to Windsor Castle and the surrounding grounds. Prince William and Princess Catherine chose this home to raise their children in a quieter, less public setting than their previous residences.
The location offers plenty of green space for outdoor activities, giving the young royals a taste of a more grounded childhood. Importantly, it is close to Lambrook School in Berkshire, where all three children attend, making it a convenient family base. The cottage’s setting within the extensive Windsor Home Park provides a peaceful environment away from the hustle and bustle of London while still being within easy reach of royal duties and events.
Architectural and Location Highlights
Adelaide Cottage’s architecture reflects its historical roots, with carefully preserved features that link back to its early 19th-century origins. The use of reclaimed materials from the Royal Lodge and the distinctive decorative ceiling of the main bedroom make it unique among royal homes.
Set on the vast 655-acre Windsor Home Park, the cottage benefits from an abundance of natural beauty. This large parkland not only enhances the home’s privacy but also offers a safe and spacious outdoor environment for the royal children.
Nearby is Adelaide Lodge, a neighbouring property that currently remains unoccupied due to structural issues. Adelaide Lodge remains unmodernised and uninhabited in recent years, adding an element of mystery to the area.
Conclusion
Adelaide Cottage is a fine example of blending historic royal heritage with the demands of contemporary family life. For Prince William, Princess Catherine, and their children, it offers a peaceful, private sanctuary within the royal estate, allowing them to enjoy family moments away from public scrutiny. The cottage’s charm lies in its modest size, rich history, and serene location, making it a treasured home in the British royal property portfolio. As the family continues to reside there, Adelaide Cottage remains a symbol of tradition, privacy, and the evolving nature of royal life in the 21st century.
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