At the time, the decision raised eyebrows. Many assumed the future king and queen would remain in central London. But in 2025, Kate herself offered a simple explanation while speaking to members of the Irish Guards during the St Patrick’s Day Parade.
She explained that they had been living in London, but wanted more green space for their family. Windsor, she said, offered the best of both worlds. Close enough to London for work, but surrounded by countryside.
A choice rooted in family life
Royal experts later revealed just how content the family had been with their move. Author Katie Nicholl said the privacy Windsor offered made leaving Kensington Palace worthwhile on every level. The family could come and go without being overlooked, something that mattered deeply to them as parents.
Royal commentator Duncan Larcombe added that the move reflected William and Kate’s desire to live more like a normal family. Adelaide Cottage did not have endless rooms or a large household staff. William preferred having his children close by, sleeping in rooms nearby, rather than spread across a palace.