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.
