Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor is grappling with a significant downgrade in his living situation after being forced to vacate the Royal Lodge. The disgraced former Duke of York has been given a strict deadline of January 25 to leave the lavish property he had called home for over two decades. Despite this, Andrew’s new residence—Marsh Farm—requires substantial work before it can be habitable, with renovations still ongoing.
Transition to a Humble Farmhouse
Marsh Farm, located within the Sandringham estate in Norfolk, is a sharp contrast to the opulent Royal Lodge. Although the property sits within the prestigious Sandringham grounds, it is situated about two miles from the main residence, close to the village of Wolferton. The farmhouse, which had been a former working farm, consists of a modest brick house with a few outbuildings. The interior is in desperate need of refurbishment, and tradesmen have been observed working at the property throughout January. As a result, Andrew is reportedly staying in temporary accommodation on the Sandringham estate until the farmhouse is ready.
The ongoing renovations at Marsh Farm include enhancements to security measures, such as the installation of CCTV and new doors. The former Duke is said to be displeased with the scale of the property, which has only five bedrooms, a significant drop from the seven-bedroom Royal Lodge. According to sources, he was initially unimpressed by the size of Marsh Farm, finding it “poky” and far from the luxury he had grown accustomed to in his previous residence.
Compounding the move are concerns over the property’s location on a flood plain. Marsh Farm sits near a neighboring bog, and residents in the area have been advised to register for flood warnings. A risk assessment from last year recommended that the property be included in the flood alert system, given the potential for mechanical failure at the local pumping station that prevents flooding from the marshland.
Escalating Tensions and Household Staff Issues
Andrew’s relocation has also been marked by tensions within the royal family. Reports indicate that he has not taken the move quietly and has expressed his dissatisfaction with the arrangements. Although his brother, King Charles, is reportedly providing him with limited staff support on an ad hoc basis—a cleaner, groundsman, and cook—Andrew is said to have rejected this offer, possibly due to his reluctance to accept such a diminished lifestyle.
Additionally, a pest control vehicle was spotted at Marsh Farm prior to Andrew’s move, sparking curiosity about whether the property had issues with vermin, such as rats or squirrels. The presence of pest control may indicate that the farmhouse is not in the ideal state that Andrew hoped for upon his relocation.
Marsh Farm’s ongoing renovations are scheduled to conclude by Easter, but sources close to the palace suggest that the work remains extensive. Despite his displeasure with the move, it appears Andrew will be financially supported by King Charles for the costs associated with the property and necessary refurbishments.
This move follows the withdrawal of Andrew’s royal titles amid ongoing scrutiny over his connections to the late financier Jeffrey Epstein. The former Duke was asked to vacate Royal Lodge after a prolonged lease arrangement was terminated, and he is now adjusting to a much more modest life in the countryside.
