In a dramatic move that signals King Charles III's determination to modernise the monarchy, Prince Andrew is being compelled to relinquish his lavish Royal Lodge residence in Windsor. The Duke of York's eviction from the 30-room mansion marks the latest consequence of his fallen status within the Royal Family.
The End of an Era at Royal Lodge
The sprawling Windsor estate, which Prince Andrew has called home since 2004 following a 75-year lease agreement with the Crown Estate, represents more than just luxury accommodation. For the disgraced duke, it has served as his primary bastion of royal privilege since stepping back from public duties in 2019.
Buckingham Palace insiders confirm that Andrew is expected to downsize significantly, with Royal Lodge likely to be transferred to Prince William and Princess Catherine. The Waleses are reportedly considering the property as their future Windsor base, though they would undertake substantial renovations to modernise the ageing structure.
A King's Decisive Action
King Charles's approach to his brother's situation demonstrates a stark departure from the Queen's more lenient stance. Where Elizabeth II maintained Andrew's residence and provided financial support despite the Epstein scandal, Charles is taking decisive action to protect the monarchy's reputation.
The king's strategy appears twofold:
- Remove Andrew from prominent royal properties to distance the institution from ongoing controversy
- Streamline the monarchy's physical footprint and reduce maintenance costs amid financial pressures
Financial Realities Bite
Prince Andrew's financial situation has become increasingly precarious since losing his royal patronages and military titles. The estimated £7 million renovation costs at Royal Lodge, combined with ongoing maintenance expenses exceeding £400,000 annually, present an unsustainable burden for the duke.
His reported £250,000 annual allowance from the Queen's private funds has been significantly reduced under Charles's reign, leaving Andrew struggling to maintain his lavish lifestyle.
What's Next for the Duke?
Andrew is expected to relocate to Frogmore Cottage, the former home of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. The five-bedroom property represents a substantial downgrade from his current 30-room mansion but offers a compromise that keeps him within the Windsor estate.
Royal commentators suggest this move represents the final chapter in Andrew's fall from grace, effectively ending his decades as a working royal and confining him to a much-reduced role within the family.
The transition is likely to be completed within the coming months, marking one of the most significant property reshuffles in recent royal history and underscoring King Charles's commitment to a slimmed-down monarchy.
