When Meghan Markle married Prince Harry in 2018, she reportedly hoped to live in Windsor Castle — but her request was denied. Instead, the newlyweds were given Frogmore Cottage, a much smaller residence on the castle grounds.
Royal historian Hugo Vickers told The Times that while Windsor Castle does have “empty bedrooms and suites” in its private apartments, it may not have been considered suitable for the Sussexes. “I can see how it might not be entirely appropriate to have a young family living there,” he said.
Royal author Katie Nicholl, in her book The New Royals, wrote that Frogmore Cottage was actually considered a significant gesture from Queen Elizabeth II. “The cottage was a big deal. The Queen’s entrance into the gardens is right next to their cottage. It is essentially her backyard, her solitude, and her privacy. She was giving that up in gifting Harry and Meghan Frogmore Cottage. We all thought it was very big of her. She said, ‘I hope they’ll respect it.’”
Life After Royal Duties
Prince Harry and Meghan stepped down from royal duties in 2020 and moved to California with their son, Prince Archie. The couple later accused the Royal Family of racism toward their son and publicly aired grievances in high-profile interviews.
Since relocating, the couple has welcomed their second child, Princess Lilibet, and built a new life on the West Coast — far from both Windsor Castle and Frogmore Cottage.
