Prince Andrew, the Duke of York, has reportedly vacated Royal Lodge earlier than originally expected, relocating to a property on the Sandringham estate amid renewed public and political scrutiny connected to his past association with financier Jeffrey Epstein.
According to multiple reports, the move took place late at night, with Andrew traveling from the Windsor estate to Norfolk in what sources describe as an effort to avoid public attention. While Buckingham Palace has not issued an official statement on the timing or circumstances of the relocation, the development follows the release of newly unsealed documents related to Epstein, which have reignited debate around Andrew’s past conduct and role within the Royal Family.
Royal Lodge, a 31-room property in Windsor Great Park, has been Andrew’s primary residence for years. He reportedly agreed in 2024 to relinquish the lease after prolonged discussions with the Crown Estate, though he had been expected to remain there until alternative accommodation was fully prepared. Recent developments, however, appear to have accelerated that timeline.
Sources familiar with the situation suggest that King Charles III has been increasingly concerned about the reputational impact of ongoing revelations connected to Epstein, particularly as they continue to dominate headlines in the UK and internationally. While Prince Andrew has repeatedly denied allegations of wrongdoing and has not been charged with any criminal offense, his public role has been significantly reduced in recent years.
Andrew’s temporary accommodation is understood to be Wood Farm Cottage on the Sandringham estate, a secluded property previously used by Prince Philip during his retirement. He is expected to move to nearby Marsh Farm once renovation and security work is completed. Both properties are located away from public roads and offer a high degree of privacy.
The timing of the move coincided with renewed media attention following the release of historical emails and documents connected to Epstein. Some of these materials have prompted calls from public figures, including senior politicians, for Andrew to cooperate further with U.S. authorities should he be requested to do so. Palace sources have emphasized that any such decision would be a personal matter for the Duke of York.
Earlier this week, Andrew was seen in Windsor engaging in routine activities, including horse riding, which drew criticism from some commentators who felt the optics were ill-timed. Observers have suggested that this visibility may have contributed to the decision to expedite his departure from Royal Lodge.
Prince Andrew stepped back from official royal duties in 2019 and was stripped of his military affiliations and honorary titles in 2022. In late 2024, he also relinquished the use of his “His Royal Highness” styling in an official capacity. Despite this, he has remained a private member of the Royal Family.
Sarah, Duchess of York, who has lived intermittently at Royal Lodge since her divorce from Andrew in 1996, is also expected to leave the property. It is not yet publicly known where she plans to reside next. Representatives for the Duchess have declined to comment.
Buckingham Palace has confirmed only that it is “aware of ongoing developments” related to the Epstein document releases and continues to monitor the situation. Officials have otherwise remained tight-lipped, reflecting the monarchy’s longstanding approach of limiting public commentary on internal family matters.
As the Royal Family continues to navigate the broader implications of these renewed revelations, Andrew’s early exit from Royal Lodge marks another significant step in his gradual withdrawal from royal life — one that underscores the ongoing sensitivity surrounding his past associations and their impact on the institution.