The departure of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor from Royal Lodge in Windsor Great Park has been met with sharp criticism from royal observers, who have described his conduct throughout the ongoing Epstein scandal as deeply inappropriate and disrespectful.
Controversial Exit Amid Fresh Revelations
Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, formerly known as Prince Andrew, has finally packed his belongings and left the 31-room Royal Lodge in Berkshire this week. This move coincides with the latest release of documents related to the Jeffrey Epstein case, which have once again placed the former duke under intense public scrutiny.
The 65-year-old, who was stripped of his royal titles and military honours in October last year, has maintained his daily routines despite the controversy, including regular horse-riding excursions through Windsor Great Park. His visible presence in the area has drawn particular condemnation from those who believe he should maintain a lower profile out of respect for Epstein's victims.
Expert Condemnation of Public Behaviour
Royal correspondent Rebecca English has been particularly vocal in her criticism, describing Andrew's approach as "a masterclass in how not to play out a public scandal." Writing for the Daily Mail, she highlighted what she called his "block-headed" refusal to maintain discretion during his final weeks at Royal Lodge.
"Whether it be his refusal to lie low or his utter intransigence about even acknowledging the many victims of his good friend, Jeffrey Epstein, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor's behaviour has been profoundly disappointing," English wrote. She recounted instances where Andrew was seen "gurning and waving brazenly" from his car during outings, behaviour that reportedly left courtiers and family members watching "aghast."
Family Strain and Public Backlash
The controversy has created additional pressure for the wider Royal Family, with King Charles facing direct questioning about the matter during a public engagement. While visiting the Essex village of Dedham with Queen Camilla, the monarch was heckled by a member of the public who shouted: "Charles, have you pressurised the police to start investigating Andrew?"
Buckingham Palace has maintained its position of not commenting on the developments, though sources indicate that Andrew's continued public visibility has caused considerable concern within royal circles. The former RAF pilot, who denies any wrongdoing regarding his association with Epstein, has reportedly been described as showing "pig-headed determination" in maintaining his regular activities.
Transition to New Accommodation
Following his departure from Royal Lodge, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor has taken up temporary residence at Wood Farm, the former home of Prince Philip on the Sandringham Estate. He is expected to move to his permanent new home at Marsh Farm, described as a relatively modest property compared to Royal Lodge, once renovations are completed in early April.
Despite being removed from his official royal duties and titles, Andrew remains a member of the Royal Family. This status continues to present challenges for the institution as it navigates the ongoing fallout from the Epstein revelations and manages public perception of how the matter is being handled internally.
The situation highlights the delicate balance the monarchy must maintain between family loyalty and public accountability, particularly when faced with scandals that attract sustained media attention and public scrutiny. Andrew's approach to the controversy stands in stark contrast to the traditional royal preference for discretion during difficult periods.
