The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge’s Plans to Move Closer to the Queen and Family

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are reportedly considering a move to a new home in Windsor to be nearer to the Queen and the Duchess's relatives.

As per The Telegraph, the royal couple, who currently divide their time between Kensington Palace in London and Anmer Hall in Norfolk, have their sights set on relocating to Windsor, deeming it an ideal setting to raise their three children.

This potential move signifies a significant step for the Cambridges as they gear up to take on more senior roles within the royal family.

Over the past year, the Duke and Duchess have notably increased their royal responsibilities.

Concurrently, the Queen has been gradually delegating more of her duties, while the absence of Prince Harry, Meghan, and Prince Andrew has resulted in other senior royals having to step up.

Sources suggest that the couple is eyeing Fort Belvedere, a historic Grade II listed house located at the southern end of Windsor Great Park.

Originally constructed in 1721, the fort underwent extensive renovations in the 19th century and was once used by Queen Victoria as a tea house.

Notably, Prince Edward and Wallis Simpson also resided there before relocating to France.

Reports indicate that William and Catherine are exploring Ludgrove Boarding School for Prince George, considering its close proximity to Fort Belvedere.

However, the Duchess is inclined towards Lambrook near Ascot, a co-educational school with secluded rural access, as shared by local florist Sue Barnes with The Telegraph.

Barnes mentioned that this choice aligns with Catherine's desire to provide her children with a secure upbringing akin to her own.

An essential factor in the potential move is the proximity of Catherine's parents, Carol and Michael Middleton, who reside just 25 kilometers away in Bucklebury.

This closeness could facilitate their involvement in school runs and other family activities.

Nevertheless, not everyone close to the couple is supportive of the planned move to Berkshire, with some expressing reservations about the countryside location.

Despite this, the Cambridges believe they can manage the commute from Windsor to west London in a mere 25 minutes.

A permanent residence in Windsor could prove advantageous for Prince William and Catherine, given the presence of several other royals already residing on the Windsor estate.

The Queen has been residing at Windsor Castle since the onset of the pandemic, while nearby, Prince Edward and Sophie live at Bagshot Park.

Princess Eugenie and Jack Brooksbank now occupy Frogmore Cottage, formerly inhabited by Prince Harry and Meghan, and Prince Andrew remains at the Royal Lodge.

The potential move westward could hold strategic significance for the Cambridges and the monarchy as a whole, particularly amidst forthcoming changes.

Currently, the couple divides their time between Kensington Palace in London, where their offices are also located, and Anmer Hall in Norfolk.

The latter, a wedding gift from the Queen, served as their primary residence from 2015 to 2017 following refurbishments.

Following the passing of the Duke of Edinburgh last year, having the Cambridges nearby would undoubtedly provide comfort and support to the Queen.

With Windsor set to become the Queen's permanent base, she will be in close proximity to her son Prince Edward, daughter-in-law Sophie, and son Prince Andrew, fostering a familial support network.

The relocation would bring most of the Queen's immediate family members, excluding Prince Charles and Princess Anne, within arm's reach to offer assistance.

Kate Middleton has always held a fondness for the county where she grew up, often visiting her parents, Michael and Carol Middleton, who reside in the picturesque Bucklebury Manor.

The Middletons' connections to the area, including Kate's brother James reportedly purchasing a home nearby, underscore the family's ties to the region.

Royal correspondent Emily Andrews previously highlighted Catherine's desire for a countryside home, emphasizing her focus on family life over fame or career aspirations.

While any potential changes to the Cambridges' living arrangements would not impact their setup at Kensington Palace, the prospect of a move to Windsor signifies a shift towards a more centralized royal presence.

This decision aligns with the evolving dynamics within the royal family and the strategic considerations for the future.

As the monarchy adapts to changing circumstances, the Cambridges' potential relocation symbolizes a new chapter in their royal journey.