Andrew Mountbatten Windsor, formerly Prince Andrew, has been forced out of his home at Royal Lodge in Windsor and will have to make do with a place on the royal family’s Sandringham estate in Norfolk – paid for by his brother. The move is expected to take place “as soon as practicable” after his public life as a royal was effectively ended by King Charles. His ex-wife, Sarah Ferguson, will also move out of Royal Lodge and will sort her own living arrangements.
Sandringham was bought in 1862 by the then Prince of Wales, who later became Edward VII, as a private country retreat, and the house was rebuilt in 1870 to ensure it was big enough for his growing family. Its vast surrounding estate includes 6,475 hectares (16,000 acres) of farmland, 1,416 hectares (3,500 acres) of woodland and 150 properties.
Among the possible properties on the Sandringham estate where Andrew could live are York Cottage, previously the home of Prince George before he became King George V; Anmer Hall, once used as the estate office and holiday accommodation; Gardens House, a former head gardener’s home now let as holiday accommodation; The Folly, another holiday let; Park House, the birthplace of Diana, Princess of Wales; and Wood Farm, used by Prince Philip after his retirement.
York Cottage has been described as a relatively low-key residence. The monarch-in-waiting spent much of his time there collecting stamps, including a world-record purchase of an exceptionally rare 1847 stamp from Mauritius. Anmer Hall was reportedly earmarked for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex before their departure from royal life. Gardens House sleeps up to eight people and is decorated with pieces from the royal collection. The Folly offers “understated luxury” and has undergone a year-long restoration. Park House was converted into a country house hotel for disabled people and is reportedly now unoccupied. Wood Farm has a history of use by senior royals.
If Andrew were to move to Gardens House, the “light and airy red brick Edwardian property” would need to be taken off the holiday let market, where it still appears at about £2,000 for a minimum three-night stay. The Folly is available for up to six people at a slightly more modest £1,800 for a minimum three-night stay.
