The 66 year old royal vacated the 30 room property earlier this month, following renewed public attention surrounding his past association with Jeffrey Epstein. The move marked the end of an era for Andrew, who had lived at Royal Lodge since the early 2000s.
Since leaving Windsor, he has been staying in temporary accommodation on the Sandringham Estate in Norfolk. His relocation, however, quickly became overshadowed by further headlines.
A reluctant departure from Royal Lodge
According to reports, Andrew did not accept the decision to leave Royal Lodge without protest. Sources claim the former Duke of York resisted the move and voiced his frustration.
One insider alleged that Andrew reacted angrily when informed he would need to vacate the residence. The source claimed he repeatedly insisted, “I’m the Queen’s second son, you can’t do this to me.”
Another source suggested Andrew struggled to acknowledge the reality of the situation, describing his response as a mixture of disbelief and defiance. Observers reportedly found it striking that he invoked his late mother while arguing against the decision.
Sarah Ferguson, Andrew’s former wife, also left Royal Lodge earlier this year. While Andrew has remained in the UK, Ferguson has reportedly been abroad in recent months, with sightings placing her in locations including the French Alps and the United Arab Emirates.
Fresh controversy after relocation
Andrew’s move to Norfolk soon took a dramatic turn. On February 19, officers from Thames Valley Police arrested a man in his sixties from Norfolk on suspicion of misconduct in public office.
Although authorities did not initially name the individual, Andrew was later identified as the person in question. He was released later that day and remains under investigation. No charges have been announced.
Police emphasised that an arrest does not imply guilt. Details surrounding the allegations have not been publicly disclosed.
Ongoing scrutiny
Andrew continues to face intense public attention linked to the release of files by the US Department of Justice earlier this year. Documents within the material reportedly referenced communications involving Andrew during his time as a UK trade envoy.
Some reports have suggested that emails contained in the files appeared to show Andrew sharing official information with Epstein. Under existing guidelines, trade envoys are required to maintain strict confidentiality regarding sensitive matters connected to their work.
Andrew has consistently denied any wrongdoing.
Royal Insider has contacted Andrew’s representatives for comment.
