Inside the British King’s Remote Estate: Andrew’s New Home Revealed
A major transition is underway for Andrew Mountbatten Windsor, the disgraced brother of King Charles III. He is set to relocate to the Sandringham Estate, a private property in eastern England. This change comes as Andrew faces the fallout from his connections with the late Jeffrey Epstein, which have left him largely out of public favor.
Sandringham Estate: A Historical Significance
The Sandringham Estate has a rich history, having been in the possession of the royal family since 1862. It is not classified as an official royal residence, which offers King Charles a strategic way to separate Andrew from public scrutiny. Sandringham is located about 110 miles north of London and encompasses parklands, gardens, and working farms. The estate has served as a home to the last six British monarchs.
- Founded in 1862, the estate has been passed down through generations.
- Previously recorded in the Domesday Book as “Sant Dersingham” in 1086.
- Queen Victoria purchased the estate for her son Edward, who later became King Edward VII.
Andrew’s New Living Arrangements
Andrew, aged 65, will transition from the 30-room Royal Lodge at Windsor Castle, where he has resided for over 20 years. His relocation will be funded by King Charles, who plans to provide Andrew with an annual stipend from his private funds.
While Andrew may not end up at the famed Wood Farm, where his parents found solace, there are several potential residences within Sandringham:
- Park House: The childhood home of Diana, Princess of Wales.
- York Cottage: Previously the residence of King George V, this property has multiple bedrooms and lake access.
- Gardens House: Once home to the estate’s head gardener, it features four bedrooms and three bathrooms.
- The Folly: A smaller three-bedroom hunting lodge, signaling a notable downsizing for Andrew.
The Decision Behind the Move
This shift not only signifies the decline of Andrew’s royal status but also exposes him to increased public and media scrutiny. Allegations concerning his past behavior, particularly in relation to Virginia Roberts Giuffre, continue to haunt him. Although Andrew denies these claims, his association with Epstein has raised significant concerns.
While King Charles aims to shield the monarchy from the implications of Andrew’s actions, the move is not immediate. Andrew has been informed of his impending eviction from Royal Lodge, where he signed a 75-year lease in 2003. He had invested nearly $9.9 million in renovations there, but will now have to navigate the complexities of moving and dividing possessions with his ex-wife, Sarah Ferguson.
A Seasonal Transition
As the holiday season approaches, the royal family appears keen to finalize Andrew’s relocation. This timing is crucial, especially considering the royal family’s traditions at Sandringham House, where they gather for Christmas services at St. Mary Magdalene Church.
King Charles and heir to the throne Prince William prefer to keep Andrew distant during these significant family gatherings. Whether Andrew ends up in a larger residence or the smaller Folly, this transition is emblematic of his reduced role within the royal family.
