Prince William and Kate’s sleeping arrangements at Kensington Palace have raised eyebrows, as it was revealed that the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge didn’t conform to the traditional layout one might expect. Despite moving to Adelaide Cottage on the Windsor Estate in September 2022 with their three children, their former official residence at Kensington Palace had some intriguing features. Unlike most couples, William and Kate did not sleep in an upstairs bedroom, as a floor plan of their residence in Apartment 1A unveiled the location of the bedrooms.
The couple’s primary bedroom at Kensington Palace was situated on the ground floor of Apartment 1A, which was once home to Princess Margaret. The historic apartment boasts 20 rooms spread across four floors, with its own lift, gym, and nine staff rooms. As royal expert Christopher Warwick explained, the term “apartment” for royal residences at Kensington Palace can be misleading, as they are more akin to separate houses within the palace grounds.
Although the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge now reside permanently at Adelaide Cottage in Windsor, a modest four-bedroom property, they have access to Anmer Hall in Norfolk. Adelaide Cottage, built in 1831 as a retreat for Queen Adelaide, boasts a rich history that includes former inhabitants like Queen Victoria and Group Captain Peter Townsend, who was involved in a controversial love affair with Princess Margaret. After extensive renovations in 2015, the cottage now features elaborate decorations, such as a master bedroom ceiling adorned with gilded dolphins and rope decoration.
Despite brief speculations that Prince Harry and Meghan might settle at Adelaide Cottage following their wedding in 2018, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge now call it their home. The cottage’s privacy and proximity to London were likely appealing factors for the royals. With intricate decor and a history filled with intriguing stories, Adelaide Cottage remains a charming residence for the royal family.