Prince Harry and his wife, Meghan Markle, have made a significant real estate move, purchasing a £11-million (nearly ₹ 119-crore) home in California shortly after stepping down from their Royal duties in the UK. The luxurious property boasts nine bedrooms, 16 bathrooms, a gym, a games room, tennis courts, and a tea house. This purchase follows rumors circulating earlier in 2024 about the Sussexes possibly relocating from their mansion in Montecito.
Before their move to the United States, the couple resided in Frogmore Cottage on the Windsor estate, a wedding gift from the late Queen Elizabeth. However, the Duke and Duchess had to vacate the cottage in 2023 due to infrequent visits to the UK.
Interestingly, the Sussexes had initially expressed a desire to live in Windsor Castle after their marriage. They had hoped for living quarters within the castle, but their request was denied by the late Queen, who instead suggested Frogmore Cottage. The Times reported that Harry and Meghan had expressed their desire to “move in with the grandparents”, hoping to achieve their ideal living situation.
The late Queen, however, had a different vision for the couple. She wanted them to reside in nearby Frogmore Cottage, a choice that ultimately prevailed over other options within the castle grounds. Royal author Hugo Vickers explained that while there were empty bedrooms and suites in the private apartments, it might not have been “entirely appropriate” for a young family to live there.
Before being granted Frogmore Cottage, several other homes in Windsor were considered for the couple. Adelaide Cottage, now the residence of Prince William and Kate Middleton, along with their children, was also an option. The Prince and Princess of Wales moved into the four-bedroom home in Windsor in 2022.
The Sussexes’ journey from Frogmore Cottage to their California mansion highlights the evolving chapter in their lives, marking a significant shift from their royal roots to a new chapter in the United States.
