The impressive property sits within Windsor Great Park, a sprawling 5,000-acre estate known for its wide range of family-friendly attractions. However, some of these popular amenities are set to close in January.
An email update issued by the park detailed the temporary shutdowns. It stated: “As you start planning to get outdoors in the New Year, please note that some areas of the Windsor Estate will be closed for our annual winter clean. These closures are scheduled each year to help maintain the Estate for everyone’s enjoyment.”
According to the notice, the Savill Garden Visitor Centre, Savill Garden, Adventure Play area, Savill Garden Kitchen and Gallery Café, and the Virginia Water Gift Shop will be closed from 5 to 12 January. In addition, the Windsor Farm Shop and Windsor Farm Shop Café will shut between 5 and 7 January, while the Gallery Café located inside the Savill Garden Visitor Centre will remain closed from 5 January until 16 January.
Given that this vast estate effectively serves as an extended garden for the Prince and Princess and their children, it’s likely these facilities—particularly the adventure play area—are regular destinations for the family. The playpark operates on a ticketed basis, with two-hour sessions costing up to £12 per adult and £16 per child during peak periods.
A Fresh Start for the Wales Family
The Wales family are undoubtedly eager to create new memories in their spacious eight-bedroom home. Their previous residence, Adelaide Cottage, was associated with several difficult experiences, including the cancer diagnoses of Princess Kate and her father-in-law, King Charles, as well as the death of Queen Elizabeth II, which happened shortly after they moved in. “Moving gives them an opportunity for a fresh start; an opportunity to leave some of the more unhappy memories behind,” a source told HELLO!’s Royal and Features Contributor Tracy Schaverien.
The Cost of Living at Forest Lodge
Prince William and Princess Kate have not bought Forest Lodge but are renting it from the Crown Estate. It has been reported that they are paying rent at the “market rate.” The property underwent £1.5 million worth of restoration work in 2001 and was subsequently listed for rent at £15,000 per month. With 25 years having passed since then, it’s widely believed the rental value has risen significantly, meaning the family could be facing a substantial monthly cost.
Beyond the rent, the couple are also reportedly covering the cost of renovations themselves. In June, planning applications were submitted to the local council outlining proposals for minor external updates and small internal changes. Work on the interior appears to be ongoing, with Princess Kate revealing during a royal engagement that she plans to continue redesigning the interiors in 2026.
