Royal Watch News

Prince William to buy Catherine country pad

Jan 4, 2013, 12:01 GMT

Duke and Duchess of Cambridge

Britain's Prince William is reportedly planning to buy wife Duchess Catherine a country estate for her 31st birthday.

The Duke of Cambridge wants to surprise his pregnant spouse with a lavish new pad, which is away from their London base of Kensington Palace and very secluded so she can have as much privacy as she wants during her pregnancy.

A source told Look magazine: 'They've talked about getting a place where they can get away from it all. And now Wills has narrowed down the list to a few incredible places in Hampshire and Buckinghamshire around the £5 million mark. They don't want to be too close to London as they are already based in Kensington Palace.

'Wills has gathered together various property details from some high-end retail estates which he will give to her on her birthday on January 9.'

As well as a new house, William also wants to throw Catherine - who is also known as her maiden name of Kate Middleton - a low-key party.

The source added: 'Wills and the Middleton family are planning a very quiet do, but there'll be a 'surprise element', which could be one of two things. They'll arrange a very small lunch with present openings if she's feeling up to it. Or, they'll throw a big family dinner in the evening.

'She'll just want to be with her family and enjoy her last birthday with Wills before there's a little one to look after.'