A new photo raises questions about the couple’s residence
Prince William and Princess Kate Middleton surprised royal fans when they shared a new photo following their appearance at Royal Ascot on June 17, 2026. The Prince and Princess of Wales posted the image on X with the caption, “A wonderful day at Royal Ascot. W & C,” using the initials of their first names to show that the message came from them. Even though their elegant outfits caught attention at first glance, many eagle-eyed royal observers put their focus on the setting behind them. The image featured a tall double doorway that had never appeared in previous family photographs, leading to speculation that the picture was taken at Forest Lodge, the family’s new home.
See the image below:
A wonderful day at Royal Ascot. W & C pic.twitter.com/JNScqg2crF
— The Prince and Princess of Wales (@KensingtonRoyal) June 17, 2026
Forest Lodge has become the Wales family’s permanent home
In October 2025, the Prince and Princess of Wales moved into Forest Lodge in Windsor Great Park with Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis. The eight-bedroom house is reportedly considered their forever home, even after William eventually ascends the throne. The couple currently rents the residence through a 20-year lease and privately covers the costs of minor renovations and their move. The relocation marked an important change from Adelaide Cottage, where the family faced many challenges, including Queen Elizabeth’s death and the cancer diagnoses of both King Charles and Princess Kate in 2024.
The location offers practical advantages for the family
Forest Lodge has several advantages for the Wales family, as it keeps them close to Windsor Castle and Kate’s parents, who live nearby. It is also conveniently near Prince George’s future school, Eton College. On June 16, 2026, Kensington Palace revealed that George will begin attending Eton College in the fall after completing his studies at Lambrook School. With just a 15-minute ride from Forest Lodge to Eton, Prince George will not have to worry about being far away from family.
