Shoppers in a festive mood who are on the hunt for a Christmas tree have raised concerns about having to take a longer route due to restrictions around Prince William and Princess Kate’s new residence. Access routes have been altered to prevent direct traffic in front of the royal couple’s eight-bedroom home at Forest Lodge in Windsor, where they recently moved in with their children. This change has redirected drivers heading to the annual Christmas Tree Shop at Windsor Great Park, adding over a mile to their journey.
According to a local resident, security measures have been visible with parked cars and personnel monitoring the area to deter unauthorized entries near the royal home. This has led to some road incidents, as mentioned by another observer who noted instances of vehicles veering off course. Kensington Palace has been contacted for official comments on the matter.
The new residence of Prince William and Kate has been described as their “forever home” following their transition to Forest Lodge. Previously, they resided at Adelaide Cottage in Windsor’s Home Park before moving to the larger eight-bedroom mansion. The relocation coincided with the children’s school break, and the family had aimed to settle in before Bonfire Night.
The move brings the Wales family closer in proximity to William’s uncle, Andrew Mountbatten Windsor, who resides in Royal Lodge within Windsor Great Park, although approximately 1.4 miles away from the royal couple. Andrew is planning to move to a new residence on the private Sandringham estate in Norfolk in the upcoming New Year following his removal of titles by Charles in relation to the Epstein scandal, a decision supported by William and Kate.
William has expressed a desire for decisive action concerning his uncle, who has faced allegations of sexual misconduct, which he denies. Andrew was accused by Virginia Giuffre of assault when she was a minor, a claim linked to the activities of Jeffrey Epstein.