Insider Reveals William and Kate’s ‘Strict Boundaries’ on Family and Mental Health: ‘They Are Not...'

Prince William and Kate Middleton attend a SportsAid mental fitness workshop at Bisham Abbey National Sports Centre. (Cover Image Source: Getty Images | Max Mumby/Indigo)

Aug. 25 2025, Published 01:45 PM. ET

Prince William and Kate Middleton recently announced their move from Adelaide Cottage to Forest Lodge later this year. The Prince and Princess of Wales called Adelaide home for three years, having relocated from Kensington Palace in 2022 to enjoy more privacy. Commenting on their stance for a more balanced life, a source revealed that William and Middleton have 'very strict boundaries' about their mental health and family life. While they take their royal duties seriously, they are reportedly not afraid to stand their ground when it comes to protecting their family.

Image Source: Getty Images | Photo By Oli Scarff — Princ William and Kate Middleton arrive for a visit to a local market in Tobermory, Scotland. (Image Source: Getty Images | Oli Scarff)

William and Middleton have reportedly found their 'forever home' in Forest Lodge, a historic Georgian property in Windsor. The insider told Us Weekly, "The new house marks a new era for the family. The decision to move into this new home is a significant one that signals independence, though it is not entirely surprising." They continued, "They have witnessed how the role of monarch can consume one’s entire being. While they take their responsibilities very seriously, they are not afraid to say no when necessary." The source also explained that moving to Forest Lodge will allow the couple to stay close to their children's future boarding schools and be 'as hands-on as possible' as parents while balancing royal duties.

Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis (C), accompanied by their parents the Prince William, and Catherine,, arrive for a settling in afternoon at Lambrook School, near Ascot. (Image Source: Getty Images | Jonathan Brady) — Prince William and Kate Middleton arrive with their three children for a settling in afternoon at Lambrook School. (Image Source: Getty Images | Jonathan Brady)

According to reports, the couple plans to stay there even after William becomes king. The source dished, "To outsiders, it may seem like a big move for the royals to not live in Buckingham Palace, but to insiders, it is not surprising. King Charles has not lived there for a long time either and prefers to spend time outside of London." Buckingham Palace reportedly feels 'extremely large and impersonal' for the couple, and the insider added that it "has been undergoing renovations for many years," so it "has not been the kind of place anyone would want to call home." They continued, "In many ways, it feels more like a conference center or a showcase than a palace that serves as a family home."

Forest Lodge, formerly known as Holly Grove, in Windsor Great Park. (Image Source: Getty Images| English Heritage/Heritage Images)

On August 16, a Palace spokesperson confirmed to PEOPLE, "The Wales family will move house later this year." While they did not reveal the exact residence, The Sun reported that the Prince and Princess were allegedly eyeing Forest Lodge, which is currently undergoing minor renovations ahead of the family’s relocation. An insider spilled, "Moving gives them an opportunity for a fresh start and a new chapter; an opportunity to leave some of the more unhappy memories behind. This is a move for the long-term. They see it as their forever home." The unhappy moments refer to Queen Elizabeth's 2022 death and Middleton's 2024 cancer diagnosis, both of which happened during their stay at the Cottage.

The Prince and Princess's new royal residence is estimated to be around $20M, with fine period detail including elaborate plaster cornices and ceiling decoration, marble fireplaces, Venetian windows, and a half-barrel vaulted hallway ceiling.