Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor has quietly relocated to the King’s Norfolk estate — and locals say the reception has been far from warm.
The 65-year-old former Duke of York was stripped of his royal titles and told to leave his Windsor home in October due to his connections with convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein.
Since then, the embattled father-of-two has come under increasing scrutiny, particularly after the US Department of Justice released millions of previously sealed Epstein documents, revealing extensive details of their association through hundreds of emails and photographs.
A Temporary Stay Before Permanent Relocation
On Monday, Andrew was moved into Wood Farm cottage. He is expected to remain there temporarily before transferring to his long-term residence, Marsh Farm, in April.
Both homes are located within the boundaries of the King’s private Sandringham estate.
Despite his public disgrace, residents say Andrew’s new situation still appears comfortable — with King Charles, 77, reportedly covering the expenses.
“He (Andrew) will have all the things he needs. He’s still living in a certain amount of luxury,” one frustrated local told the Mail UK.
“I’m not particularly keen on him. I’m not happy he’s this way. As long as we don’t see him. He will be hid away somewhere.”
Another resident repeated the sentiment, saying: “He will have all the things he needs. He’s still living in a certain amount of luxury”.
A third local woman admitted she was “not enamoured” by his arrival.
“They’re dumping their royal rubbish on us,” she said.
One more resident questioned the situation entirely, saying he was “flabbergasted” that Andrew had been permitted to live on the King’s estate at all if he was supposed to be ostracised.
“I’m a little bit flabbergasted myself. If he’s an outcast and living on the estate, he’s not an outcast is he,” he remarked.
Signs of a Swift and Discreet Move
There were indications that Andrew’s relocation may have been hurried following the release of the Epstein files. On Thursday, reports noted two builders’ vans, a groundworks vehicle, a flatbed truck and a pest control operator entering the Wood Farm grounds.
A vehicle carrying two men believed to be police officers assigned to Andrew’s protection was also seen at the property. The former royal was reportedly overseeing interior preparations to meet his preferences.
One officer sitting in the front passenger seat was observed filming journalists and photographers gathered outside the lengthy driveway.
Hidden From Public View
Wood Farm’s location offers significant privacy. The cottage is concealed from public roads and footpaths, surrounded by thick woodland that shields it from sight — allowing Andrew to remain largely unseen.
King Charles is believed to have wanted his brother out of the public eye after Andrew was repeatedly photographed horse riding around Windsor as allegations connected to Epstein intensified.
At Sandringham, Andrew will still be able to pursue his passion for horse riding, with several discreet riding areas available away from cameras.
A private track behind the farmhouse also connects to multiple exits, enabling him to avoid the main entrance if necessary.
Upgrades and Security Enhancements
Meanwhile, Andrew’s new home has reportedly been undergoing various modern improvements, including interior refurbishments and the installation of a Sky VIP television box.
Earlier this year, workers were seen fitting security lighting, erecting a six-foot wooden fence, and operating heavy machinery on the grounds.
The Sun reported that a digger had been stationed on the front lawn earlier in the week, while electricians worked to ensure the property was fully functional.
Additional security upgrades, including CCTV systems, were also said to be in progress, with several new doors reportedly “lined up ready to be screwed into place”.
