Andrew’s next move: From Royal Lodge to Sandringham retreat

Shiva K Dhakal
National Press Corporation(NPC)
united Kingdom– Prince Andrew, who recently lost his “prince” title, is preparing to leave his Windsor residence, Royal Lodge, and move to the Sandringham estate in Norfolk.

A formal notice to surrender the Royal Lodge lease was issued on Thursday, with the move expected to take place “as soon as possible”. The King is understood to be privately funding Andrew’s accommodation at Sandringham, meaning no public money will be used.

The 31-square-mile (80 sq km) estate, first purchased in 1862 for the future Edward VII, serves as the Royal Family’s private country retreat and remains a key location for their traditional Christmas gatherings.

Although Buckingham Palace has not confirmed Andrew’s exact destination, several properties on the estate have been mentioned as potential options. York Cottage, once thought to have been considered for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, sits close to the main Sandringham House and has recently been used as staff accommodation.

Other possibilities include Gardens House, a six-bedroom Edwardian residence formerly occupied by the head gardener, and The Folly, a three-bedroom 19th-century lodge once used for hunting and tea gatherings. Both are currently available as holiday lets.

However, Wood Farm, once home to Prince Philip and the late Queen during their later years, has reportedly been ruled out, while Anmer Hall remains occupied by the Prince and Princess of Wales.

Royal commentators have described the move as a significant step that distances Andrew from Windsor’s royal circle. Biographer Robert Hardman told the BBC that the decision effectively sends Andrew “up the M11 to the royal equivalent of Siberia”.

While the Palace has yet to specify when the relocation will happen, sources suggest it will proceed “as soon as possible and practicable.”