Prince Andrew has made a significant announcement declaring his decision to relinquish the Duke of York title. This move has sparked speculation about his ties to the monarchy and his future residence. Despite the controversy surrounding his association with Jeffrey Epstein and the allegations from Virginia Giuffre, which he denies, Andrew will continue to live in a royal property.
Since the early 2000s, Prince Andrew has resided at the Royal Lodge in Windsor, where his ex-wife Sarah Ferguson also lives. The Buckingham Palace confirmed that Andrew’s living arrangements at the Royal Lodge will remain unaffected by his title change. He holds a private lease on the property, securing his residence until at least 2078.
The Royal Lodge, located in Berkshire, three miles south of Windsor Castle, has a rich history dating back to the 17th century. The current structure, expanded in the 1930s by the future King George VI, features 30 rooms, including bedrooms and a chapel. Queen Elizabeth II spent her childhood at the residence, evident from the preserved Wendy House on the premises.
Under Andrew’s private lease granted in 2003, he has access to the Royal Lodge, Chapel Lodge, a Gardener’s Cottage, six Lodge Cottages, and police residences on approximately 40 hectares of land. The interior of the home reflects a blend of traditional royal aesthetics and personal touches from past royal occupants.
Previously the private residence of The Queen Mother, the Royal Lodge boasts distinctive features like a spacious drawing room and a conservatory. Despite the ongoing controversies surrounding Andrew’s ties to Jeffrey Epstein, he maintains his denial of any allegations against him.