What We Know About Sandringham — Prince Andrew’s New Residence

Overview

The rapid fall from favour of the now-former Prince Andrew culminated in Buckingham Palace asking him to relinquish his 75-year lease on Royal Lodge and to relocate to the Sandringham estate in Norfolk. He will no longer use his royal style and will be known as Andrew Mountbatten Windsor. It is not yet clear exactly when the move will take place as legal and logistical formalities are completed.

Why the move is happening

The decision follows renewed public outrage over Andrew’s association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, and the re-publication of allegations in Virginia Giuffre’s memoir. Andrew has denied the allegations. According to officials, the King acted after consulting legal and constitutional advisers, family members and government ministers to protect the reputation of the monarchy. Downing Street has publicly supported the King’s actions.

About Sandringham

Sandringham was purchased in 1862 by Queen Victoria for her eldest son, the future Edward VII, and has been the private home of five generations of British monarchs. The estate — one of Norfolk’s best-known stately homes — covers roughly 20,000 acres, including about 600 acres of managed royal parkland and around 150 properties ranging from grand houses to cottages and farm buildings.

The main house was completed in 1870; later additions included a ballroom and extended guest and staff accommodation. Notable moments include Queen Elizabeth II’s first televised Christmas broadcast in 1957. St. Mary Magdalene Church, within the grounds, is traditionally used by the royal family on Christmas morning.

Properties on the estate that could house Andrew

Several properties on the Sandringham estate could be suitable residences, depending on preference and required privacy:

• York Cottage — formerly known as Bachelor’s Cottage; has been used for staff accommodation and holiday lets and has served as an estate office.
• Gardens House — an Edwardian four-bedroom property currently let as a holiday home.
• The Folly — a historic building dating to the 1800s, used as a guest rental with scenic views across the estate.
• Park House — a larger property requiring renovation; historically connected to Diana, Princess of Wales.
• Wood Farm — a farmhouse closely associated with the late Duke of Edinburgh; less likely but part of the estate’s housing options.
• Anmer Hall — currently associated with the Prince and Princess of Wales and considered an unlikely option.

Ownership, logistics and finances

Sandringham House and its surrounding estate are privately owned by the sovereign, unlike Royal Lodge at Windsor, which is held within arrangements of the Crown Estate. Reports say King Charles will privately finance the relocation and make financial provisions for his brother. The move requires lease surrender, notice and other formal steps that could prolong the timeline.

Family and other details

Andrew has agreed to vacate Royal Lodge, where he lived for more than two decades with his ex-wife Sarah Ferguson. Ferguson is also leaving Royal Lodge but is expected to make separate arrangements and is not anticipated to move to Sandringham with him. The royal family’s two Pembroke Welsh corgis that were once the Queen’s dogs — Muick and Sandy — will remain in the care of Andrew’s family, though public statements did not specify which family member will keep them.

What happens next

Andrew will also lose his remaining military rank as vice admiral of the Royal Navy at the King’s request. The precise timing and specific property on Sandringham that Andrew will occupy have not been disclosed. The Palace says the move will proceed when practical and once the necessary legal and financial arrangements are completed.

Note: This summary consolidates public statements and reporting about the relocation and Sandringham estate. Andrew has denied allegations made against him; investigations, public debate and legal matters remain sensitive and ongoing.