The Royal Family's traditional Christmas Day gathering at Sandringham was once again marked by the conspicuous absence of the Duke of York. Prince Andrew was not present for the festive celebrations, continuing his exclusion from official royal duties.
A Festive Gathering Without Andrew
On Wednesday 25 December 2025, King Charles III and Queen Camilla led the royals to the annual Christmas morning service at St Mary Magdalene Church on the Sandringham estate. Hundreds of dedicated well-wishers gathered in the cold to catch a glimpse of the family, who took time to greet the public after the ceremony.
Key members in attendance included the Prince and Princess of Wales along with their three children, the Princess Royal, and Zara Tindall. However, for the second consecutive year, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor was not part of the public procession or the subsequent private family gatherings.
The Stripping of Royal Titles
Andrew's absence follows the major decision in 2025 to strip him of his remaining military affiliations and royal patronages. This move, confirmed by Buckingham Palace, effectively removed his formal public role within the monarchy. His continued exclusion from prominent family events underscores his diminished status.
Following the heartfelt church service, where Queen Camilla and Princess Anne stood out in vibrant red coats and King Charles wore a classic camel overcoat, the family returned to Sandringham House. There, they were expected to watch the King's traditional Christmas broadcast, which this year was pre-recorded in a chapel at Westminster Abbey.
The Future of Royal Appearances
The scene at Sandringham illustrates the ongoing recalibration of the modern monarchy under King Charles. The firm handling of Andrew's position sends a clear message about the institution's priorities. While the day was one of festive cheer and public engagement, the empty space where the Duke once stood served as a quiet reminder of the scandal that led to his effective removal from royal life.
The Princess of Wales was seen accepting flowers from the crowd, a gesture that highlighted the family's focus on connecting with the public. This contrast between Andrew's enforced distance and the working royals' visible duties paints a definitive picture of his current standing within The Firm.
