Sarah Ferguson, the former Duchess of York, is reportedly preparing to leave Royal Lodge and move into a modest 'granny flat' at her daughter Princess Beatrice's property in Oxfordshire.
A Homely Solution After Royal Upheaval
The 66-year-old author is said to be 'on edge' about her housing situation as she and Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor face being ousted from their long-term home, Royal Lodge in Windsor Great Park, Berkshire. This follows the scandal surrounding the former royal.
Sources indicate that the pair are expected to go their separate ways, with Sarah finding a potential solution close to family. The ideal new home appears to be a one-bedroom annexe at the £3.5 million Oxfordshire mansion belonging to her daughter Beatrice and son-in-law Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi.
The Perfect Granny Annexe
This independent living space, originally a cattle shed, has been completely renovated and is now ready for occupancy. Located in a quaint village, the annexe offers Sarah complete independence while keeping her near her family.
A source revealed the property's appeal, stating: 'It would be perfect for the former Duchess as it’s close to her daughter but also completely independent of the main house.' The source also highlighted the benefit of Sarah being an 'on-site baby sitter' for her granddaughter, Sienna, whom she adores.
Planning documents from the local council confirm that Beatrice and Edoardo have made several adjustments to the property over the years. The recent renovations are thorough, with the stonework repointed, gutters replaced, and woodwork freshly painted. The annexe features its own private entrance and received a delivery of propane gas bottles last month during a cold snap, confirming it is equipped for comfortable living.
Moving Plans and Future Prospects
It is understood that Sarah could move into the annexe potentially before Christmas, while Andrew is expected to spend one last festive period at Royal Lodge. This domestic arrangement appears more likely than previous speculation that suggested Fergie might move abroad to be near her sister in Australia or her other daughter, Princess Eugenie, in Portugal.
Staying in the UK could also help revive her career as a TV personality. There had been reports that Sarah lost her position on This Morning and other ITV programmes in the wake of the Andrew controversy. Remaining in the country may reopen avenues for media work for the grandmother of four.
For now, the focus is on the move to a new chapter, with a charming granny annexe in Oxfordshire set to become Sarah Ferguson's next home.
