Sarah Ferguson, the former Duchess of York, is reportedly grappling with a significant housing predicament as her time at the 30-room Royal Lodge draws to a close. According to sources close to the 66-year-old, she has yet to secure a new property and is clinging to hopes of finding accommodation in the Windsor area, despite facing the need to "lower her expectations" after decades in opulent royal residences.
A Fragile State and Daily Distress
Insiders reveal that Ferguson is in a "fragile" state, with friends claiming she has been prone to bursting into tears on a daily basis. The stress of her fall from grace and the ongoing housing uncertainty have taken a toll, with Ferguson confiding to friends that recent events were "not good for my mental health." This emotional turmoil comes amid a broader crisis for both her and her ex-husband, Prince Andrew, as they navigate their exit from Royal Lodge.
No Permanent Offers from Daughters
While relations are said to be warmer between Ferguson and her daughters, Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie, neither has extended an offer of permanent accommodation to their mother. Beatrice resides in the Cotswolds, and Eugenie splits her time between Kensington Palace and a Portuguese villa, meaning they cannot provide a long-term roof over her head. The sisters have reportedly offered temporary stays but not a permanent solution, leaving Ferguson in limbo.
Andrew's Reluctant Move to Norfolk
Prince Andrew, meanwhile, is begrudgingly preparing to move to Marsh Farm on the Sandringham Estate in Norfolk, a property that sources describe as far from ready and requiring extensive security upgrades. Builders are currently working to install secure gates and alarm systems, but Andrew is understood to be unhappy with the arrangements. Some reports even suggest his move could be "in doubt" due to these concerns, with alternatives like Wood Farm being floated but deemed too close to other royals.
Strained Family Dynamics
The housing crisis has exacerbated strained relationships within the royal family. Andrew and Ferguson have been ostracised by senior royals such as King Charles and Prince William, which has impacted their connections with Beatrice and Eugenie. While Beatrice has shown public support for her father, Eugenie is reported to have cut off contact, partly due to Andrew's refusal to apologise to Jeffrey Epstein's victims. This familial tension adds another layer of complexity to their housing woes.
Lowered Expectations and Uncertain Future
As Ferguson refuses to move in with Andrew, citing a preference to stay in Windsor, she faces the reality of downsizing from a lavish lifestyle. A source emphasised that both Andrew and Sarah "have to lower their expectations about the sort of lifestyle they wish to lead." Potential options for Ferguson include spending time at Eugenie's luxury villa in Portugal, but nothing permanent has been confirmed, leaving her future uncertain.
Broader Implications and Security Concerns
The situation highlights broader issues within the royal household, including security and mental health concerns. Andrew's firearms licence was revoked late last year, and his gun collection was removed for safekeeping. Additionally, the staff at Royal Lodge are being paid off as the couple downsizes, with Andrew expected to maintain only a skeleton staff at Marsh Farm. The property's location on a flood plain adds another challenge, with residents advised to sign up for Environment Agency alerts.
In summary, Sarah Ferguson's housing crisis underscores the personal and practical challenges faced by former royals as they transition away from privileged accommodations. With no permanent home in sight and emotional distress mounting, her plight reflects the harsh realities of life after Royal Lodge.
