Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor has now formally vacated Royal Lodge, marking a significant shift in his living arrangements. In the aftermath of his departure, it has emerged that he will also be taking on an unexpectedly hands-on role in his day-to-day life.
His exit from the property — where he had been living with his former wife, Sarah Ferguson — follows his official removal from royal titles by his elder brother, King Charles III. The decision came amid mounting public and political pressure surrounding the former Duke of York’s association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, as well as renewed backlash after the posthumous publication of Virginia Giuffre’s memoir, Nobody’s Girl.
Allegations Revisited in Memoir
In her book, Giuffre recounts her experience of being trafficked by Epstein and levels accusations against several figures, including Andrew. The memoir reiterates her longstanding claims that she was forced to have sex with him on three separate occasions, one of which allegedly occurred when she was 17.
Andrew has consistently and firmly denied all allegations.
He is expected to relocate to Marsh Farm on the Sandringham estate, situated roughly two miles from King Charles’ own residence at Sandringham House. For the time being, however, he is staying at Wood Farm cottage on the same estate.
Sources suggest that his change in circumstances will extend beyond his address. Andrew is reportedly preparing to handle more everyday responsibilities himself — including, for what one insider described as the “first time ever”, answering his own front door.
As quoted by The Sun, one source said: “People who have been with him for years are off. It will likely be a skeleton staff at best.
“It’s possible for the first time in his life he will have to open the front door to people himself.”
Staffing Challenges and Resistance
Another insider explained that staff departures were linked to the handover of Royal Lodge.
“Because the lease to Royal Lodge was handed back, they also lost their homes.
“They were offered far smaller accommodation. But no one wanted to go to Sandringham to work for him. It’s in the middle of nowhere.”
According to the outlet, employees on the King’s Norfolk estate have reportedly been informed that they are under no obligation to work for Andrew if they feel uneasy doing so.
One source suggested that many have chosen not to.
“They’ve been told they don’t have to serve Andrew or work for him if they feel uncomfortable. There is already quite a list saying no thanks.
“There is understandably a lot of disquiet as he is now a total pariah.
“But there is also a worry that once he gets comfortable at Wood Farm, while Marsh Farm is being finished, they will never get him out again.”
The Sun reports that Andrew is expected to retain a minimal household team, likely consisting of a valet, a butler and a chef.
Once he moves permanently into Marsh Farm — a transition anticipated at the beginning of April — he will be responsible for recruiting and financing his own staff.
