Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson are said to be in a "fragile state" as they face the imminent prospect of leaving their long-term home, Royal Lodge in Windsor, within the coming weeks. The emotional impact of the eviction is reportedly taking a significant toll on the couple as they prepare for a major life transition.
Imminent Departure from Royal Lodge
Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, the former Prince Andrew, is preparing to vacate the 30-room Royal Lodge after King Charles formally ended his tenancy in the autumn. Reports indicate that Andrew was given a deadline of January 25 to leave the property, which has been his home for 22 years. The move comes after Andrew was stripped of his royal honours and military titles last year.
Preparations at the New Norfolk Residence
This week, Andrew reportedly visited his future residence, Marsh Farm in Wolferton, Norfolk, to check on the progress of refurbishment works. The property, which has been empty for several years, is situated within the Sandringham estate, approximately two miles from King Charles's Sandringham House.
Observers noted that a 6ft timber fence has been erected around part of Marsh Farm, and activity has been visible on the grounds. A digger was seen working, and lights were on in an upstairs room, with people appearing to work inside the building to make it habitable before Andrew's expected move.
Downsizing and Lifestyle Adjustments
The move to Marsh Farm represents a significant downsizing for Andrew and Ferguson. Royal Lodge boasts 30 rooms, while Marsh Farm is considerably smaller, requiring the couple to adjust to a more modest lifestyle. Insiders suggest that Andrew will have to give up some of the comforts he previously enjoyed.
One source told the Mail Online: "They obviously don't want to move to Norfolk, and as most of them are nearing retirement age, they've basically been made redundant on generous terms. I suspect that Andrew will have more of a skeleton staff when he eventually moves into Marsh Farm, as it's not realistic to employ so many people to look after one person on their own."
Environmental Considerations at the New Property
Marsh Farm sits on a flood plain below sea level, with nearby residents advised to sign up for Environment Agency alerts due to risks from the North Sea and adjacent wetland areas. This environmental factor adds another layer of consideration to the couple's relocation.
Background to the Eviction
The eviction follows Andrew being stripped of his titles last year after the posthumous release of Virginia Giuffre's book Nobody's Girl. The memoir details her account of being trafficked by convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein and includes allegations against several individuals, including Andrew. Andrew has vehemently denied all allegations made against him.
In recent days, removal lorries have been spotted arriving and departing from Royal Lodge, indicating that Andrew's relocation is approaching rapidly. The emotional strain of leaving their home of over two decades, combined with the public scrutiny surrounding Andrew's past controversies, has reportedly left both Andrew and Ferguson in a vulnerable and fragile emotional state as they face this significant life change.
