It’s all in keeping with William not wanting to be a drain on the public purse and living as ordinary a life as he can, even when he is King,” a royal source said.

Forest Lodge was last renovated in 2001 at a cost of £1.5 million ($A3.1 million) and went on the rental market for £15,000 ($A31,000) a month. At the time, the eight-bedroom property was valued at £5.5 million ($A11.4 million) but according to house price indices, the home would be worth about £16 million ($A32 million) if sold on the open market.

Prince William and family are moving to Forest Lodge on the Windsor estate, prompting uncertainty about the future of Buckingham Palace.

Prince William and Kate Middleton’s move to Forest Lodge later this year - their reported “forever home“- is about putting the needs of their family first. Still, some royal critics are raising concerns about what this means for the future of the monarchy.

Luckily, Forest Lodge, the 328-year-old mansion in Windsor Great Park, looks an absolutely ideal spot for the family of five to begin again, with plenty of greenery surrounding it (something the Princess has routinely said is important to her) and more than enough room for the three royal children.

Prince William and Kate Middleton are gearing up for one last move just a few miles down the road from their current home, Adelaide Cottage. Situated in Great Windsor Park, Forest Lodge will host the Wales family just in time for Christmas, if all goes to plan, and many more holidays after that.

A look inside Prince William and Princess Catherine's new "forever home" - Forest Lodge in Windsor. It's not as glamorous as you might think!