The Duke of York, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, is finally vacating his long-term home at Royal Lodge, but his next destination has ignited fresh controversy over royal privilege and the use of public funds.
From Royal Lodge to a Royal Estate
After a protracted battle to remain at the 30-room Royal Lodge in Windsor, the disgraced former prince is moving out. Reports confirmed on January 15, 2026, indicate his next residence will not be the modest accommodation many had hoped for. Instead of a private rental, he is set for a temporary stay at the 20,000-acre Sandringham Estate in Norfolk, a private royal property, while another substantial home is made ready.
That property is Marsh Farm, also on the Sandringham estate, which is reportedly being prepared for his use. This arrangement, sanctioned by King Charles III, has been perceived by critics as the monarch handing his brother "a new royal gold spoon," insulating him from the financial and personal realities facing ordinary citizens.
A Public Backlash Brews
The announcement has fuelled significant public anger, with many believing it underscores a lack of meaningful consequences for Andrew following his association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein and the subsequent civil sexual assault lawsuit. Commentators argue that being provided with another lavish estate, complete with ornamental lakes and a main house of over 100 rooms, "doesn't exactly scream 'consequences'."
The move follows Andrew's loss of his royal patronages and military titles and his effective removal from working royal life. However, critics contend that his demotion from Prince was a "token gesture" while his lifestyle remains largely untouched. The core complaint is that the British public is not in debt to Andrew, and taxpayer-supported resources, even indirectly through the Crown Estate, should not fund his housing.
Calls for Modesty and Personal Responsibility
In stark contrast to the royal estates on offer, public sentiment suggests Andrew should find and fund his own accommodation. Suggestions have ranged sarcastically from a two-bedroom flat in Milton Keynes to a stay in a Travelodge hotel, arguing that such an experience might provide the perspective he lacks.
The broader debate questions why the controversy has centred on which mansion he should inhabit rather than if he should retain any privileges at all. With victims of Epstein's crimes having their lives ruined, there is a palpable sense that justice remains incomplete while Andrew remains "coddled, polished, and untouchable" within the royal bubble.
Ultimately, as the removal vans depart Royal Lodge, the court of public opinion has delivered a clear verdict: until Andrew faces the mundane realities of life outside the ivory tower, there will be no closure or sense of true accountability for the monarchy's most infamous modern son.
