At his new residence in Sandringham, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor is said to be confronting a reality few would ever have imagined for a former senior royal. Once firmly embedded within palace life, he is now described by insiders as a “total pariah,” a label that underscores how dramatically his circumstances have shifted.
On February 2, 2026, months after King Charles III formally evicted him and his staff from Royal Lodge, Andrew reportedly left the 31-bedroom Windsor property under what sources described as “the cover of darkness.” The quiet departure came as newly resurfaced allegations connected to Jeffrey Epstein once again dominated international headlines. The timing of the move has fueled speculation that mounting pressure left him with little choice but to leave sooner than expected.
The relocation followed the release of additional documents by the U.S. Department of Justice, which renewed scrutiny of Andrew’s past associations. While the royal household has consistently taken a measured tone, the developments appear to have intensified the sense of urgency surrounding his situation.
Prince Edward recently became the first senior royal to publicly reference the renewed allegations. Speaking during an on-stage interview with CNN, he emphasized the importance of perspective, stating: “I think it’s all really important, always, to remember the victims and who are the victims in all this? A lot of victims in this.” His comments signaled a clear focus on those affected rather than internal family dynamics.
Shortly afterward, Prince William and Catherine, Princess of Wales, also responded through a spokesperson. According to the BBC, the statement confirmed that they have been “deeply concerned by the continued revelations,” adding that “their thoughts remain focused on the victims.”
King Charles III then addressed the issue directly through an official spokesperson. As reported by the BBC, the statement noted that the King has expressed “profound concern at allegations which continue to come to light in respect of Mr. Mountbatten-Windsor’s conduct.” It further stated that while the specific claims are for Andrew himself to address, the monarchy stands ready to cooperate with authorities if approached by Thames Valley Police.
The language from Buckingham Palace has remained restrained but serious, reflecting the gravity of the ongoing scrutiny.
Originally, Andrew had been expected to vacate Royal Lodge by April 2026, following an eviction notice issued in October 2025. However, sources suggest that the latest wave of revelations accelerated his departure. He is currently residing at Wood Farm cottage on the Sandringham Estate while renovations are underway at Marsh Farm, a five-bedroom property that will serve as his more permanent residence.
According to one anonymous source cited by The Sun, Andrew had hoped to remain at Royal Lodge longer, but the renewed attention surrounding the Epstein documents made it clear that it was time to leave. The source described the move as “humiliating,” suggesting that the late-night timing was intended to avoid additional public spectacle.
The transition has not only involved a change of address but also a significant lifestyle adjustment. Reports indicate that many of Andrew’s long-serving staff at Windsor were released after the lease to Royal Lodge was handed back. Some were reportedly offered alternative accommodation, though several declined relocation to Sandringham, described by one source as being “in the middle of nowhere.” As a result, Andrew is said to be operating with what has been characterized as “a skeleton staff at best.”
Adding to the complexity, staff on the King’s Norfolk estate have reportedly been informed that they are not required to work for Andrew if they feel uncomfortable doing so. One source claimed that several have already opted out, reflecting what was described as “a lot of disquiet” regarding his presence. There is also reported concern that once he settles at Wood Farm, it may prove difficult to move him again.
Perhaps most striking is the suggestion that Andrew’s day-to-day life may now look markedly different. Once he relocates to Marsh Farm, situated just two miles from Sandringham House, he will reportedly be responsible for hiring and paying his own staff. One source even remarked that, for the first time, he may need to handle everyday tasks himself — including answering the door.
As the royal family continues to navigate the fallout, the situation remains fluid. The eviction from Royal Lodge and the move to Sandringham represent more than a change in geography; they symbolize a profound recalibration of status and influence within the monarchy. Whether this marks a final chapter or merely another stage in an ongoing saga remains to be seen.
