Prince Andrew's New Residence at Wood Farm Cottage Amidst Fresh Allegations
Following his abrupt departure from Royal Lodge, Prince Andrew has begun a temporary stay at Wood Farm Cottage, marking a somber new chapter for the disgraced royal. This move comes as Thames Valley Police assess new allegations that Jeffrey Epstein sent a woman to have sexual encounters with Andrew at his former Windsor home in 2010. A police spokesperson confirmed they are evaluating the information but noted the allegations have not been formally reported by the woman or her lawyer.
From Royal Lodge to Wood Farm: A Humiliating Transition
Until recently, Prince Andrew resided at the £30 million Royal Lodge with his ex-wife, Sarah Ferguson, in what was once described as a happy divorced arrangement. However, this ended in October amid scandals over their ties to Epstein. It is believed King Charles expedited Andrew's eviction after new Epstein documents surfaced, including an email from Ghislaine Maxwell that authenticated a photo of Andrew with Epstein victim Virginia Giuffre. Andrew has consistently denied any wrongdoing.
Now, Andrew is expected to lie low at Wood Farm Cottage, a five-bedroom property on the secluded Sandringham Estate. This location is not new to royal drama; in 1992, after the Yorks' separation, photos emerged of Sarah Ferguson with her financial advisor, leading Prince Philip to bar her from Sandringham Christmas celebrations. Instead, she dined alone at Wood Farm with her daughters, Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie.
The Tragic History of Wood Farm Cottage
Wood Farm Cottage holds a melancholy past, serving as the death place of Prince John, the youngest son of King George V and Queen Mary. Born in 1905, Prince John experienced epileptic seizures and signs of what may have been severe autism. By age 11, he was secluded at Wood Farm under the care of his nanny, away from public life. He died in his sleep at age 13 in 1919 after a severe seizure, with reports describing his face bearing an angelic smile.
Historically, such seclusion was common for individuals with epilepsy, viewed as a form of mental illness. Despite this tragic legacy, Wood Farm was cherished by Andrew's late parents, Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, who enjoyed its informal setting for hobbies like reading and painting.
Current Challenges and Future Plans
Andrew is set to stay at Wood Farm until Easter, when renovations at Marsh Farm, his more permanent residence, are completed. However, this move has not been without controversy. Royal servants at Sandringham have been allowed to refuse serving Andrew if uncomfortable, with many reportedly declining. Additionally, many of Andrew's long-serving staff from Windsor are being let go, potentially leaving him with minimal assistance.
A friend revealed that Andrew left Royal Lodge under cover of darkness to avoid emotional goodbyes, highlighting the humiliation of his departure. As he settles into Wood Farm, concerns linger that he may become difficult to dislodge once comfortable, adding to the ongoing royal saga.
