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.
