Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, who currently reside in an $11 million mansion in Montecito, California, may be contemplating a move yet again, as speculation arises about their previous desire for a different royal residence.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, who vacated their Frogmore Cottage on the Windsor estate last year, reportedly had their sights set on a different property entirely before settling into their current Californian abode. Frogmore Cottage, a historic home gifted by the late Queen Elizabeth II as a wedding present, was occupied by the couple until their relocation to the U.S. in 2020.

Rumors suggest that the Sussexes initially sought residence within the confines of Windsor Castle itself. Allegedly, the couple requested if living quarters could be made available in the castle following their marriage. However, at the time, only the late Queen and Prince Philip had private apartments within the castle, with all other royals residing elsewhere on the estate.

Royal author and historian Hugo Vickers has commented on these reports, noting that while the castle had vacant bedrooms and suites, it might have been deemed unsuitable for a young family. Vickers stated, “There are empty bedrooms and suites in the private apartments which the Sussexes may have had their eye on, or perhaps some former living quarters in the castle grounds converted into other things. But I can see how it might not be entirely appropriate to have a young family living there.”

Before settling into Frogmore Cottage, other Windsor properties were reportedly considered for the Sussexes. Adelaide Cottage, now the residence of Prince William and Kate, Princess of Wales, was one such property. The Wales family moved to the four-bedroom home in Windsor in 2022.

Currently, Harry and Meghan’s California mansion features nine bedrooms, 16 bathrooms, a games room, gym, tennis courts, and a tea house. However, with rumors of a potential move, property expert Jonathan Rolande suggests they might be looking to capitalize on the increased value of their home. “According to some reports, the value of their home has soared by more than £10 million since they moved in. That’s entirely possible,” Rolande stated.

He added, “But, like here, property markets in the U.S. can rapidly change, so they might think this is the time to make their move and cash in.”

The Sussexes’ current home, with its luxurious features and its history of ownership by the Duke and Duchess, remains a notable selling point. “As well as obviously being a stunning property, the home also comes with the wow factor of once being owned by Harry and Meghan. For many, this will be a huge selling point and can, itself, add to the value,” Rolande concluded.

As Prince Harry and Meghan continue to make headlines, their potential next move remains a subject of keen interest and speculation.