Prince Andrew is reportedly preparing to move to a renovated farmhouse on the Sandringham estate, marking a significant downgrade from his former 30-room Windsor mansion. The disgraced royal was stripped of his titles and military affiliations and has now been forced to surrender the lease on Royal Lodge.
From Royal Lodge to Ramshackle Farmhouse
The property identified as Andrew's likely new residence is Marsh Farm, situated approximately seven miles from the main Sandringham House. Described as a 'ramshackle farmhouse', the property is said to require substantial work, including major renovations to its two reception rooms and kitchen, before it is deemed habitable.
An insider told The Sun: "Andrew has been told he is off to Marsh Farm. It needs an awful lot of work to be done before it’s habitable. It means we could be waiting a long time before he ever leaves Royal Lodge." Reports indicate that some of the Duke's belongings have already been packed and placed into storage ahead of the eventual move.
Financial Fallout and Lost Compensation
The move comes with a severe financial penalty for the former Duke of York. When he gave the minimum 12 months' notice to surrender the lease on Royal Lodge on October 30, he was theoretically entitled to compensation of £488,342.21 for ending his tenancy early on October 30, 2026.
However, following an inspection of the Windsor property on November 12, the Crown Estate stated it was unlikely any compensation would be paid. The extent of repairs and 'dilapidations' required at Royal Lodge is expected to offset the entire sum. The Crown Estate noted that while the repair bill was not unusual for a tenancy of that length, it would likely negate any payout.
MPs Launch Inquiry into Royal Leases
The controversy surrounding Andrew's lucrative rental deal for Royal Lodge has triggered a wider political investigation. The powerful Public Accounts Committee, known as the 'queen of select committees', has demanded answers from both the Treasury and the Crown Estate.
This has led to the announcement of a formal inquiry into the Crown Estate and the leases it has granted to other members of the Royal Family. MPs are scrutinising whether the taxpayer lost out due to favourable terms, as profits from the Crown Estate are handed to the Treasury for public spending.
Buckingham Palace has consistently refused to confirm whether Marsh Farm on the Sandringham estate will become Andrew's new home. The Duke has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing in relation to his association with the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
