Why Highgrove Isn’t Likely in Their Future

Speaking to OK! magazine, former royal gardener Jack Stooks shed light on the reasons behind the decision. He explained that even before Charles became king, there were already discussions about preserving Highgrove’s gardens.

“In preparation for the future, I think Charles assumed William wouldn’t move into Highgrove,” said Jack. “So the idea was to protect it. The Prince’s Foundation now leases the gardens from the Duchy of Cornwall to ensure their upkeep.”

Jack added that Highgrove holds deep personal meaning — not just for William, but as a symbol of his parents’ life together. “It was where they were brought up, where their family memories are,” he said. “It’s like the home mum and dad lived in.”

Not Fair to Kate

Another consideration is Kate herself. Jack shared his view that moving into Highgrove might place an unnecessary emotional burden on the Princess of Wales.

“To move into Highgrove would be asking Kate to step into Diana’s shoes, in a way,” he said. “That would be unfair to her.”

For now, it seems Adelaide Cottage will remain the primary residence for the Prince and Princess of Wales and their children — offering them space to create their own legacy, apart from the shadows of the past.