Disgraced Prince Andrew has made his first reported visit to inspect his new home at Marsh Farm on the Sandringham estate, as the deadline for his eviction from the luxurious Royal Lodge draws near. The Duke of York, formally known as Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, is facing imminent relocation after being stripped of his royal titles and forced to surrender his lease on the Windsor property.
A Secretive Weekend Inspection
According to sources, Andrew travelled to Norfolk over the weekend to see his future residence for the first time. This visit comes just weeks before he must vacate the 30-room Royal Lodge mansion where he has lived for more than two decades. The inspection was reportedly conducted discreetly, with the former prince taking measurements for curtains and assessing ongoing renovations at the more modest property.
An Unexpected Reaction to Downsized Living
Despite years of fighting to remain at Royal Lodge, Andrew's visit to Marsh Farm has apparently prompted a shift in perspective. A source revealed to The Sun that Andrew has become resigned to his new circumstances, acknowledging that this represents his future and that he must make the best of the situation. The source stated: "He's come to the conclusion that he has to get on with the rest of his life and accepts he has to make the best of it."
Security Upgrades and Renovations Underway
Significant work has been underway at Marsh Farm in preparation for Andrew's arrival. Recent weeks have seen contractors installing substantial security measures, including a six-foot-tall perimeter fence. Sky technicians have also been spotted at the property, apparently installing broadband connectivity to the rural Norfolk location.
Furthermore, security protocols have been enhanced with the extension of a no-fly zone around the Sandringham Estate to include Marsh Farm, which lies approximately seven miles from the main Sandringham House. These precautions reflect the ongoing concerns about security surrounding the controversial royal figure.
Temporary Accommodation Arrangements
With renovations at Marsh Farm still incomplete, Andrew is expected to reside temporarily at Wood Farm Cottage, another property on the Sandringham estate. The exact timeline for his permanent move remains uncertain, though speculation suggests he may hand back the keys to Royal Lodge before his birthday on February 19th.
The Final Days at Royal Lodge
Andrew's inspection of his new home follows clear signs that his departure from Royal Lodge is imminent. On January 14th, substantial removal vans were observed at the Windsor estate property, indicating that packing and preparation for the move are already well advanced.
The eviction represents the culmination of a prolonged controversy surrounding Andrew's association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. In October of last year, Buckingham Palace announced the stripping of Andrew's royal titles, citing "serious lapses of judgment" on his part. The palace statement emphasized that "their thoughts and utmost sympathies have been, and will remain with, the victims and survivors of any and all forms of abuse."
Andrew has consistently denied all allegations made against him regarding his connections to Epstein. Nevertheless, the mounting public pressure ultimately compelled King Charles to exile his younger brother from royal life and properties, marking a significant downgrade in Andrew's living arrangements and public standing.
