Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor has made his first visit to his new
home on the Sandringham estate as preparations continue for his
departure from Royal Lodge in Windsor Great Park.
The former prince, who is due to vacate the 30-room property in
the coming weeks, was seen inspecting Marsh Farm, a five-bedroom
farmhouse on the King’s privately owned Norfolk estate, where he is
expected to live quietly once renovation work is completed.
The visit comes as removal vans have already been observed at
Royal Lodge, signalling the final stages of his exit from the
property, which he has occupied for more than two decades.
Marsh Farm, which lies several miles from the main Sandringham
House, has stood empty for a number of years and is currently
undergoing refurbishment. Work at the site is understood to include
internal modernisation, upgraded security measures and the
installation of broadband services.
During his visit, Mr Mountbatten-Windsor was seen reviewing the
progress of the renovations and arranging practical matters,
including measurements for curtains, according to individuals
familiar with the preparations.
Until the work is completed, he is expected to stay at nearby
Wood Farm Cottage, a smaller property on the estate previously used
by the late Prince Philip.
A source quoted in recent
reports said that the former prince had accepted that the move
marked a significant change in his circumstances. “He has come to
terms with the fact that this is his future,” the source said. “He
understands he must make the best of it and move on with his
life.”
Security around Marsh Farm has been increased in recent weeks,
with a six-foot perimeter fence erected and additional monitoring
introduced. The restricted airspace surrounding Sandringham is also
believed to have been extended to cover the farmhouse.
Mr Mountbatten-Windsor’s relocation follows his agreement to
surrender the long lease on Royal Lodge, which he held for more
than 20 years. The decision was taken after sustained pressure on
the King to resolve his brother’s living arrangements following the
Duke of York’s withdrawal from public duties.
In October last year, he was stripped of his remaining royal
titles and honours. Buckingham Palace said at the time that the
decision reflected “serious lapses of judgment” and reiterated the
King’s sympathy for victims and survivors of abuse.
The former Prince has consistently denied all allegations made
against him in connection with his former association with the late
financier Jeffrey Epstein.
It is understood that he will fully vacate Royal Lodge before
his birthday in mid-February, at which point the keys will be
formally returned to the Crown Estate.
His former wife, Sarah Ferguson, who has continued to live at
Royal Lodge despite their divorce in 1996, is also expected to
leave the property, though her future accommodation has not been
confirmed.
Locals in the Sandringham area have reported increased activity
at Marsh Farm in recent weeks, with builders working on
outbuildings and construction vehicles visible on nearby roads. The
farmhouse lies close to a public route, though screening and
landscaping work is believed to be planned.
Once complete, the move will mark the end of Mr
Mountbatten-Windsor’s long residence in Windsor and the beginning
of a far lower-profile life in Norfolk, away from the public
scrutiny that has followed him for much of the past decade.
