Sandringham Estate Weighs Housing Options for Prince Andrew Following Royal Lodge Departure
SANDRINGHAM, England – Prince Andrew is facing a significant downsizing of his living arrangements as he prepares to leave Royal Lodge, his long-time residence on the Sandringham Estate.The move comes amid ongoing scrutiny and a reduced role within the Royal Family. The estate,transformed into a modern contry retreat by the future Edward VII,is now the focus of internal discussions regarding suitable alternative accommodations for the Duke of York.
Since inheriting the estate, successive monarchs have favored Sandringham. King Charles III, for example, participated in shooting parties there as a boy in the 1950s, a period captured in a photograph showing him playing a miniature hunting trumpet while on horseback. Now, the estate’s management is tasked with finding a new home for Andrew within its boundaries, a process complicated by the availability of various properties and the sensitivities surrounding his current status.
Several options are under consideration. While Wood Farm, favored by his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, and father, Prince Philip, was initially speculated as a potential residence, reports suggest Andrew will not be moving there.Other possibilities include park House, the childhood home of Diana, Princess of Wales, where she lived until 1975; York Cottage, where King George V resided before ascending the throne in 1910; Gardens House, a four-bedroom property currently used as a holiday let; and The Folly, a smaller hunting lodge with three bedrooms.
York Cottage, despite its suitability, presents a potential complication as it shares its name with the dukedom formerly held by Andrew-a constant reminder of his past associations. The cottage had previously been considered for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle before their relocation to the United States. The Folly would represent a substantial reduction in living space, but may be adequate for Andrew as a single man. Sandringham’s website lists Gardens House as currently available for holiday rentals.
