Additional Coverage:
- Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s $3 million Frogmore makeover could soon be erased: experts (foxnews.com)
Plans are underway to undo the approximately $3 million in renovations made to Frogmore Cottage, the former Windsor residence of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, according to recent reports from The Sun.
Originally, the refurbishment was funded through the Sovereign Grant, the taxpayer-supported fund that finances the royal family’s official duties. After stepping back from their roles as senior royals in 2020, Harry and Meghan reimbursed the full cost of the renovations.
A source familiar with the situation told The Sun, “It’s been empty for three years. Even Prince Andrew reportedly felt it wasn’t suitable for him.
Perhaps removing all traces of Harry and Meghan will make it more appealing for someone else within the royal household. This would mark a clear break from Frogmore Cottage’s recent, controversial history and restore it to its pre-Sussex era.”
Frogmore Cottage, once two semi-detached homes, was gifted to Harry and Meghan by Queen Elizabeth II as a wedding present in 2018. Following extensive updates-including heating, electrical, gas, and water system upgrades-the couple moved in during April 2019 and lived there until March 2020. Royal biographer Ingrid Seward described the property as “pretty dilapidated” before the renovation.
Royal experts suggest that these plans may reflect the monarchy’s intent to move on from the Sussex chapter. British royal commentator Hilary Fordwich commented, “There is no reason to preserve anything from the Sussex chapter.
Considering the damage caused to the royal family, especially after the publication of ‘Spare,’ erasing that chapter through renovation makes sense.” Fordwich also noted that Prince William has been firm that Harry has no path back, and this refurbishment seems to reinforce that stance.
However, other voices emphasize practical considerations behind the changes. British broadcaster Helena Chard pointed out that Frogmore Cottage has remained unoccupied for years and could be converted back into multiple residences to better serve the royal household’s needs.
“The Crown Estate is reviewing leasing arrangements and property use,” she explained. “Reconfiguring Frogmore Cottage is about securing future occupancy, not necessarily sending a message.”
Royal commentator Amanda Matta echoed this perspective, emphasizing that the original renovation consolidated multiple units into one to suit senior royals. Reversing that may simply reflect changing requirements, not an attempt to erase the Sussexes’ legacy. “Royal residences are functional assets that often change according to who needs them,” Matta said.
Despite these reassurances, some insiders believe the renovation could be a subtle signal to the Sussexes. Royal broadcaster Ian Pelham Turner described it as “a shot across the bows,” highlighting the tension between King Charles and Prince William. Turner speculated that Charles hopes for a reunion with Harry, Meghan, and their children in England, while William maintains a tougher stance.
Although Prince Harry remains largely estranged from the royal family, some experts remain optimistic about the possibility of personal reconciliation. Matta noted, “An invitation to Balmoral or Sandringham cannot be ruled out.
The fate of Frogmore Cottage concerns institutional matters, while family relations are a separate issue.” She suggested that King Charles might keep the door open to rebuilding personal ties even as the monarchy affirms the Sussexes’ departure from official duties.
For now, the future of Frogmore Cottage appears to symbolize both the practical realities and ongoing complexities within the royal family following the Sussexes’ exit.