Royal Holiday Plans Disrupted by Andrew's Reluctant Stay
The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh, Prince Edward and Sophie, were compelled to book a holiday let on the Sandringham Estate for their annual Easter break, after Prince Andrew, the Duke of York, declined to leave their preferred vacation home. The couple had intended to use Wood Farm, a property they regularly reserve for Easter getaways, but found it occupied by Andrew, who is temporarily residing there until his permanent move to Marsh Farm, an adjacent property on the estate.
First Royal Visit in Two Months
Prince Edward, aged 62, made a significant visit to his brother Andrew, 66, marking the first time a member of the Royal Family has seen Andrew since he began his exile in Norfolk two months ago. Andrew has been in seclusion following his eviction from Royal Lodge in February, a consequence of his associations with the late US financier and convicted paedophile, Jeffrey Epstein. During the encounter, Edward reportedly had a quiet word with Andrew, who is described as dragging his heels at the temporary accommodation.
Instead of Wood Farm, Edward and Sophie stayed at Gardens House, an eight-bedroom cottage located 300 yards from the main Sandringham House, which is open to visitors during this season. Historically, this property served as the residence for the estate's head gardener. The holiday let can cost up to £4,110 per week during peak periods, highlighting the unexpected expense incurred by the couple.
Andrew's Housing Situation Sparks Tensions
A source disclosed to The Sun that Andrew, despite being evicted from Royal Lodge, now has two homes at his disposal on the Sandringham Estate, moving between Wood Farm and Marsh Farm. This arrangement has caused friction, as Edward and Sophie traditionally favour Wood Farm for their Easter retreats. The source emphasised, It's got to be sorted as Edward and Sophie like to use Wood Farm.
Security Concerns and Move Preparations
On Thursday, security issues arose when two members of the public attempted to scale the exterior gate at Marsh Farm, Andrew's new permanent home. A red car pulled up, and a man and a girl climbed the gate, trying to peer over a newly installed 6-foot fence. Andrew's security team promptly intervened, defusing the situation before the pair drove away. Andrew was seen that afternoon meeting with Edward Parsons, the Sandringham estate manager, as builders work intensively to prepare Marsh Farm for his imminent move.
Renovations include fitting luxury carpets, installing a Sky dish, and setting up a fast broadband connection. Over recent weeks, hundreds of boxes containing Andrew's belongings have been delivered to the property, signalling that his relocation is imminent. Andrew remained in Norfolk over Easter, absent from the Royal Family's traditional service at Windsor, as he maintains a low profile amidst a police investigation for misconduct in a public office, following his arrest on his 66th birthday on February 19.
Controversial Activities and Additional Accommodation
Despite advice from aides to avoid activities that might appear inappropriate during the investigation, Andrew was spotted inspecting horses near his home over the weekend. Previously, he was often seen horse riding around Windsor, and there are concerns that such pursuits could be perceived negatively. Additionally, a second-hand static caravan, a £26,000 Willerby Meridian Lodge, was delivered to his current home last week. Paid for with funds provided by King Charles for living expenses, the caravan, showing signs of moss and propped on bricks in the garden, will house Andrew's security detail due to insufficient space in the main Norfolk residence.
