**Prince and Princess of Wales Settle Into Windsor’s Forest Lodge with Substantial Rent**
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The Prince and Princess of Wales, Prince William and Kate Middleton, have reportedly signed a 20-year lease for their new residence, Forest Lodge, situated in the scenic Windsor Great Park. Recent disclosures indicate that their annual rent is £411,435, which significantly exceeds the amount paid by the property’s prior tenant.
As reported by The Times, the couple moved into the Grade II-listed mansion in the autumn of 2025, marking a new chapter for the family. The rent for Forest Lodge is notably more than the £289,316 previously paid by Alexander Fitzgibbons, the chairman of the event planning firm Fait Accompli, who coordinated the royal couple’s wedding in 2011 as well as the marriage of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in 2018.
Documents filed on May 14 unveiled that both Prince William, 43, and Princess Kate, 44, are listed as the leaseholders of the property, which is designed to accommodate them and their three children: Prince George, 12, Princess Charlotte, 11, and Prince Louis, 8. Alongside the main residence, the agreement encompasses two additional cottages on the grounds, intended for use by household staff.
The increase in rent reportedly stems from fluctuations in the housing market, leading to a significant price adjustment for the new occupants. Fitzgibbons, who previously enjoyed living in the mansion with his partner, Cristina Stenbeck, signed a tenancy agreement in 2019 before vacating the property for the royal family’s arrival.
Nestled less than five miles from Windsor Castle, Forest Lodge is said to be a “forever home” for the royal couple, who have selected the residence as their long-term abode, even as they plan for the future when William ascends to the throne. Before their relocation from Adelaide Cottage, the family undertook minor renovations on the Georgian mansion, ensuring it would meet their requirements.
A briefing from the Crown Estate confirmed that the lease had been established based on “open market rent,” with independent valuers tasked with appraising the property’s worth. This update followed reports regarding Prince William’s uncle, the former Prince Andrew, who faced allegations of failing to pay rent for over two decades on his previous residence, Royal Lodge. King Charles had evicted him from that estate when he removed Andrew’s royal titles in October 2024.
The move to Forest Lodge represents a fresh start for the Wales family, especially after a series of challenging years marked by health concerns involving Princess Kate and King Charles. The Princess of Wales announced her remission from cancer in January 2025, while her father-in-law’s treatment continues. Royal biographer Sally Bedell Smith remarked on the significance of the move, referring to Adelaide Cottage as a location associated with past pain and sadness, suggesting that the couple’s desire for a new home is understandable given their recent experiences.
The royal residence not only offers a picturesque setting but also embodies a strategic choice for the family’s future. With its ample living space and staff facilities, Forest Lodge is poised to support the family’s needs as they navigate the transitional phase of life in the royal spotlight.
As the couple settles into their new surroundings, it can be anticipated that Forest Lodge will soon become a cherished haven for the Wales family, symbolising renewal and stability amidst the complexities of royal duties and personal challenges.