Frogmore Cottage is a historic Royal residence on Windsor Estate, showcasing a blend of heritage architecture and modern renovations. Gifted to Harry and Meghan in 2018, it features extensive upgrades including eco-friendly systems, private gardens, and bespoke interiors. Despite moving abroad, the couple still holds the lease and occasionally visits, with potential future use for royalty. The cottage's rich history and recent transformations highlight its significance in British royal life.
Frogmore Cottage is a notable gem in British royal history. In 2018, it was a gift from Queen Elizabeth to Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, serving as their temporary residence. Nestled on Windsor Estate near the River Thames, the cottage dates back to the late 1600s. Originally called Double Garden Cottage due to the nearby marshy terrain filled with frogs, its architecture reflects royal significance combined with recent modern renovations.
The estate includes distinguished royal burial sites, such as those of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. It originally served as a retreat for Queen Charlotte in 1801. The humble construction cost was approximately $560, remarkably low for a royal residence of today’s standards.
In 2019, Harry and Meghan undertook extensive renovations, combining five separate living spaces into one larger area for better comfort. Interior designer Vicky Charles, known for her work with Soho House, was hired for the transformation, which cost about $3 million, partly funded by the Sovereign Grant and later reimbursed after a Netflix deal. Upgrades included a double staircase, eco-friendly energy systems, private landscaped gardens, a nursery with eco-conscious paint, a yoga studio, and soundproof triple-glazed windows costing around $62,000. Although Harry and Meghan have moved to California, they maintain the lease and sometimes visit, with speculation it may become a residence for Prince Andrew soon.