The Duke of York, Prince Andrew, has been spotted in high spirits visiting his horses in Windsor, even as the final preparations for his departure from the lavish Royal Lodge accelerate. The disgraced royal was photographed laughing and joking with dog walkers from his Land Rover, which now sports standard number plates, signalling a step back from his former official life.
Preparations Intensify at Norfolk Farmhouse
This week, a flurry of activity has been observed at Marsh Farm on the King's Sandringham Estate in Norfolk, Andrew's anticipated new residence. Removals vans, security personnel, and Sky TV engineers have been seen kitting out the property, with the former prince expected to take up occupancy around Easter. Workers have been braving cold and rainy conditions, with a team of at least six toiling to make the farmhouse ready.
Significant alterations are underway to ensure privacy and security. A solid, six-foot-high wooden privacy fence has been erected, replacing a wire mesh boundary, and security lights are being installed on the walls. The presence of a local security firm's van on the driveway underscores the focus on protection. Notably, Sky engineers in 'VIP'-branded uniforms were seen installing services, indicating the home is being equipped for modern living.
A Dramatic Downsize from Royal Lodge
The move marks a stark contrast to Andrew's current 30-room mansion, Royal Lodge in Windsor. A palace insider confirmed the new property is "a lot, lot smaller and less luxurious." Before settling into Marsh Farm, Andrew is likely to move into a temporary, smaller property on the Norfolk estate as early as the end of this month. He is set to stay there until the renovations at Marsh Farm are complete.
The farmhouse, located in the secluded village of Wolferton, reportedly required substantial work to "make it habitable." Drone flights over the property were banned last autumn, and the Sandringham no-fly zone was extended to include it at the end of last year. The property is near King’s Wood Farm, where Prince Philip lived after his retirement.
Exit from Royal Life and Royal Lodge
Andrew's relocation is part of his continued withdrawal from public life following the scandal surrounding his association with the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. He was stripped of his military affiliations and royal patronages in 2022 and ceased using his HRH style. He has consistently denied allegations made by Virginia Giuffre, one of Epstein's victims, though he settled a civil case with her out of court.
His exit from Royal Lodge also concludes a controversial living arrangement. It was revealed that during his 22-year, rent-free lease of the Crown Estate property, not a single official inspection was carried out, despite the lease terms requiring it. Andrew had paid £8 million for an initial refurbishment in 2003 in lieu of rent.
Andrew has been living at Royal Lodge with his ex-wife, Sarah, Duchess of York, who is reportedly looking at alternative properties, including a potential 'granny annexe' in the Cotswolds or a move to Portugal. The Duke was pictured this weekend heading out for a morning ride near Windsor Castle, maintaining his routine as the significant change in his living circumstances takes shape.
