King Charles Avoids Brother Andrew During Sandringham Weekend Despite Close Proximity
King Charles has reportedly snubbed his scandal-hit brother, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, during a weekend stay at the Sandringham estate in Norfolk, despite the two being located just a short distance apart. The King, aged 77, arrived at Sandringham on Friday and has been spending time at the royal residence, with no plans to meet his younger brother, according to sources.
Close Encounter Without Contact
On Sunday morning, King Charles was photographed walking to St Mary Magdalene Church on the Sandringham estate for a traditional service. Dressed in a camel-colored overcoat and carrying a large umbrella, he was seen shaking hands with clergy members during the short walk from Sandringham House. The day prior, the King was observed driving around the estate, coming within less than two miles of Andrew's temporary home at Wood Farm cottage.
A witness reported to The Sun that the King drove towards Wood Farm, which is only about five minutes away by car, but it is understood they did not see each other. It remains unclear when the siblings last met, highlighting the strained relations within the royal family.
Andrew's Restricted Living Situation
Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor has been residing at the isolated Wood Farm cottage since his arrest last month on suspicion of misconduct in public office. This follows his eviction from Royal Lodge earlier this year, after King Charles stripped him of all his titles in the wake of the Epstein files release. The cottage, where his late father Prince Philip spent his final days, serves as a temporary measure before an expected move to Marsh Farm.
Since his arrest, Andrew has faced stringent restrictions at Sandringham. Reports indicate he is not permitted to go horseback riding, a pastime he frequently enjoyed at Royal Lodge, as it is considered a "bad look" amid the ongoing police investigation. Additionally, he cannot leave the Sandringham estate without prior permission and a chaperone, and any visitors to his home must be approved in advance.
Legal Troubles and Royal Response
Andrew's arrest stems from allegations that he shared sensitive information with convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein while serving as the UK's trade envoy. Hours after the arrest, King Charles issued a statement expressing his "deepest concern" and emphasizing that "the law must take its course." He pledged full cooperation with the authorities, underscoring the seriousness of the situation.
There have been no public sightings of Andrew since he returned to Wood Farm after leaving Aylsham police station in Norfolk. Meanwhile, Thames Valley Police recently concluded searches of his former Royal Lodge home after several days, as the investigation continues.
The weekend's events at Sandringham underscore the ongoing tensions and legal challenges facing the royal family, with King Charles maintaining a deliberate distance from his brother amidst the scandal.
