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Privacy NoticeThere have been reports that the Duke and Duchess of Sussex might be considering a move from their Montecito mansion in California. The pair purchased their current £11 million home just months after they stunned the world by deciding to step back from their royal duties and leave the UK. Before setting off to start a new life in the United States, they resided in the historic Frogmore Cottage, nestled within the royals’ Windsor estate. The late Queen had gifted the cottage to the couple as a wedding present. However, last year they had to return the keys as their visits back to the UK became increasingly infrequent.
The couple reportedly requested a home within Windsor Castle itself
(Image: Getty Images)
Interestingly, it appears they may have initially had their sights set on a different property altogether post-wedding. However, Harry’s late grandmother, Queen Elizabeth, reportedly “firmly” turned down their request and suggested Frogmore Cottage instead. Reports suggest that the Sussexes had expressed a desire to live in Windsor Castle itself, even asking if “living quarters could be made available after their marriage”. At that time, only the late Queen and Prince Philip had private apartments within the actual castle, with everyone else residing elsewhere on the estate, reports the Mirror. Despite their royal status, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle were reportedly steered away from setting up their nest within the private quarters of Windsor Castle. The late Queen, with grace and tact, is said to have proposed Frogmore Cottage as an alternative.
The couple lived in Frogmore Cottage until they relocated to the US
(Image: REX/Shutterstock)
Royal insider Hugo Vickers told The Times the potential wishes of the Sussexes: “There are empty bedrooms and suites in the private apartments which the Sussexes may have had their eye on, or perhaps some former living quarters in the castle grounds converted into other things. But I can see how it might not be entirely appropriate to have a young family living there.” Before being bestowed Frogmore Cottage, various abodes within Windsor were considered for Meghan and Harry, amongst them Adelaide Cottage. Now occupied by William and Kate, alongside their three youngsters Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis they made their relocation in 2022 from their London dwelling to this charming Windsor residence.
The couple were asked to hand back the keys to Frogmore Cottage in March 2023
(Image: Getty Images)
In other news, property expert Jonathan Rolande cautioned that should the Sussexes be mulling over relocating, they might want to act swiftly. He explained to the Mirror the possible reasons behind such a move: “One reason Harry and Meghan might be looking to move is to take advantage of the reported rise in value their mansion has accrued.” Detailing further, he shared, “According to some reports, the value of their home has soared by more than £10m since they moved in. That’s entirely possible.”
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle moved to Montecito, California
(Image: Getty Images Ms. Foundation for Women)
Nonetheless, he couples his insight with cautionary advice, pointing out the fluctuating nature of the US housing market, suggesting, “But, like here, property markets in the US can rapidly change, so they might think this is the time to make their move and cash in.” The Sussexes’ lavish abode boasts nine bedrooms, 16 bathrooms, and an array of luxury amenities including a games room, gym, tennis courts, and even a quaint tea house. Property expert Jonathan highlighted that the property’s royal connection is a unique selling point: “As well as obviously being a stunning property the home also comes with the wow factor of once being owned by Harry and Meghan. For many this will be a huge selling point and can, itself, add to the value,” he explained.Story SavedYou can find this story in  My Bookmarks.Or by navigating to the user icon in the top right.Follow OK! MagazineFacebookTwitterCommentMore OnMeghan MarklePrince HarryHarry and MeghanQueen Elizabeth IIWindsor CastleFrogmoreWindsor
