In a heartwarming chapter of royal life, Prince William and Princess Catherine, along with their three children—Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis—have settled into their new home at Adelaide Cottage on the Windsor estate, with their beloved nanny, Maria Teresa Turrion Borrallo, by their side. This move, marking a significant shift from the grandeur of Kensington Palace, reflects the couple’s commitment to a more grounded family life while navigating the demands of royal duty. The story of their transition, bolstered by Maria’s steadfast presence, offers an inspiring glimpse into a modern monarchy that balances tradition with relatability.

A New Chapter at Adelaide Cottage

In late summer 2022, the Wales family relocated from Kensington Palace to the charming four-bedroom Adelaide Cottage, nestled within the private grounds of the Windsor estate. This move was a deliberate step toward a simpler, more private lifestyle, bringing the family closer to Lambrook School, where George, Charlotte, and Louis are enrolled. The cottage, far cozier than their previous London residence, symbolizes William and Catherine’s desire to raise their children with as much normalcy as their extraordinary circumstances allow.

Maria Teresa Turrion Borrallo, the family’s trusted nanny since 2014, has been a cornerstone of this transition. A graduate of the prestigious Norland College in Bath, Maria brings a unique blend of expertise, warmth, and professionalism to the household. Known for her rigorous training in child development, safety, and even defensive driving, Maria has been likened to a modern-day Mary Poppins with a touch of James Bond flair. Her presence ensures the children thrive in their new home, allowing William and Catherine to balance parenting with their public roles.

Maria: The Unsung Hero of the Wales Household

Maria joined the Wales family when Prince George was just nine months old, and her role has since become indispensable. From accompanying the family on their 2014 tour of New Zealand and Australia to standing discreetly at major events like Princess Charlotte’s christening and the Platinum Jubilee in 2022, Maria has been a constant, calming force. Her ability to manage the children’s public appearances—such as guiding a playful Prince Louis during Jubilee celebrations—while maintaining their sense of security is nothing short of remarkable.

“Maria is the backbone of the household,” a royal insider shared. “She brings structure and discipline, but also allows the children to be themselves, whether they’re playing in the garden or preparing for a royal event.” Her Norland training equips her to handle everything from tantrums to teaching etiquette, ensuring George, Charlotte, and Louis are ready for both their public duties and the joys of childhood.

A Hands-On Approach to Parenting

Catherine, celebrated for her warm and relatable approach to motherhood, relies on Maria’s support to pursue her vision of hands-on parenting. Whether baking with her children, encouraging outdoor adventures, or speaking candidly about the challenges of raising a family in the spotlight, Catherine remains deeply involved in her children’s lives. William, too, has embraced a modern fatherhood role, often seen on school runs or cheering at sports events—a stark contrast to the more distant parenting of past royal generations.

The partnership between William, Catherine, and Maria is a model of quiet collaboration. Maria’s expertise allows the couple to juggle their royal responsibilities while prioritizing family time. At Adelaide Cottage, this dynamic comes to life, with the children enjoying bike rides, gardening, and cozy evenings in a home designed for togetherness rather than pomp.

A Move Rooted in Family and Tradition

The relocation to Adelaide Cottage was partly inspired by William and Catherine’s desire to be closer to the late Queen Elizabeth II, who spent much of her time at Windsor. However, following her passing, the move has taken on new significance, serving as a poignant reminder of her legacy while marking a fresh start for the Wales family. The cottage’s proximity to Windsor Great Park and Lambrook School offers a serene environment for the children to grow, play, and learn.

Easter 2023 was a particularly meaningful moment for the family, as they attended the traditional service at St. George’s Chapel in Windsor. With King Charles III and Queen Camilla upholding the royal ritual, the occasion blended continuity with renewal. For William and Catherine, it was a chance to honor the Queen’s memory while reinforcing their commitment to raising their children with love and stability.

Balancing Royal Duty and Family Life

The Wales family’s life at Adelaide Cottage reflects their broader mission to modernize the monarchy. By choosing a modest home over a grand palace, William and Catherine signal their intent to lead a more relatable, family-focused life. Maria’s role is pivotal in this balance, providing the structure needed for the children to navigate their unique upbringing. From teaching etiquette to fostering creativity, she ensures George, Charlotte, and Louis are prepared for their future roles while enjoying a childhood filled with ordinary joys.

Public response to the couple’s approach has been overwhelmingly positive. A 2023 YouGov survey highlighted Britons’ appreciation for William and Catherine’s relatability, despite the undeniable privilege of their position. Their efforts to prioritize school runs, family holidays—like their beloved ski trips to Courchevel in the French Alps—and quality time with their children resonate widely, offering a fresh perspective on an institution often seen as distant.

A Legacy of Love and Stability

As the Wales family settles into Adelaide Cottage, their story is one of collaboration, love, and forward-thinking. Maria Teresa Turrion Borrallo, with her quiet dedication, stands as a pillar of this modern royal household, enabling William and Catherine to redefine parenthood within the constraints of royal life. Together, they are crafting a legacy where duty and family intertwine, ensuring George, Charlotte, and Louis grow up feeling loved, secure, and ready for the responsibilities that await.

This glimpse into their life at Adelaide Cottage is more than a tale of royal privilege—it’s a testament to the power of teamwork, the strength of family bonds, and the enduring appeal of a monarchy striving to stay relevant in a changing world. The Wales family’s journey, with Maria by their side, will leave you truly amazed.