Over Thanksgiving weekend, Kensington Palace revealed a big, upcoming move for one of its royal couples, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. While the expectant pair currently lives in Nottingham Cottage in Kensington Palace, a short distance away from neighbors Prince William and Kate Middleton, it was only a matter of time before the Duke and the Duchess of Sussex announced a move to help accommodate their growing brood.
Their royal residence of choice? The couple revealed they will move to Frogmore Cottage on the grounds of Windsor Castle, which of course is a sentimental spot for the pair, who married at the gorgeous countryside, part-time home of Queen Elizabeth II in May. Here’s what to know about their new residence and the surrounding estate below.
Frogmore Cottage overlooks the Frogmore House where Harry and Meghan had their evening reception after their #RoyalWedding in May. The grounds of Frogmore – open just 2/3 days per year – are beautiful. pic.twitter.com/29TElqaOKF
— Chris Ship (@chrisshipitv) November 24, 2018
The New Home Has More Bedrooms
Frogmore Cottage is a major upgrade in terms of space for the pair, whose current home only has two bedrooms. While there are conflicting reports about the number of bedrooms–some say 10 while others are claiming half that amount–it’s still more than their current cottage’s capacity.
The new spot will reportedly include a nursery, a gym and a yoga studio (if they prefer to have one), according to the Telegraph UK.
It Was Named After… Well, Frogs
The property rests along a marshy spot on the Thames River, which means there’s a likelihood of stumbling upon frogs here, frogs there and mostly everywhere. Hence, why, the property was named “Frogmore” after its reptilian inhabitants.
A general view of Frogmore House in Home Park, Windsor Castle on May 17, 2006 in Windsor, England. Frogmore House was built in 1680-1684 and has been used as a Royal residence since 1792 when it was purchased by Queen Charlotte. (Photo by Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty Images)
It Will Undergo Massive Renovation
The home rests about half a mile south of Windsor Castle, resting on 35 acres of property which has been carefully groomed by royal gardeners. Currently, the cottage is split between five units. Prior to Harry and Meghan’s move, the property will undergo massive renovation to accommodate the pair with “modern amenities,” according to the Telegraph.
It’s a Historical Spot for the Family
Frogmore House, where Meghan and Harry held their evening reception, was originally erected in the late 17th century by King Charles II. In the 1790s, Queen Charlotte leased the home for herself and her family—in need of a countryside getaway (which, of course, sounds familiar)—and she ended up tapping architect James Wyatt to work on the home. The modernized structure of the property was due to her renovation push.
Queen Victoria added a Tea House to the property in the 1870s. It’s also the burial site for many royal family members. “Frogmore House and Garden holds a special place in my family’s affection,” Queen Elizabeth II revealed in a recording for her 70th birthday. She added that the spot “remains a wonderfully relaxing environment.”
It Will Allow for More Privacy
Unlike the Cambridges, who are frequently in the public eye, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle will enjoy a more private lifestyle in the comfort of Frogmore Cottage. “Harry simply doesn’t want to bring his family up in such a visible manner as his brother,” a source told the Express UK on Monday. “Any trip into neighboring Kensington Gardens attracts attention, whether from well-meaning members of the public or the occasional photographer.”
Insiders have also pointed to the fact that Frogmore Cottage remains inside the “Windsor security zone” and remains a peaceful hideaway for royals. It only opens several times a year to the public.
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