Prince Andrew is facing renewed scrutiny within the British royal family after reports that he has delayed vacating a residence on the Sandringham estate, complicating accommodation plans for Prince Edward and Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh and underscoring lingering tensions tied to his reduced role in the monarchy.
According to reporting cited by The Sun, Andrew, 66, has been accused of "dragging his heels" over leaving Wood Farm, a property on the Sandringham estate, despite preparations for his relocation to Marsh Farm. The delay has reportedly forced Edward and Sophie to seek alternative lodging during the Easter period.
The situation represents the latest development in a broader housing dispute that began after Andrew's eviction from Royal Lodge in Windsor in late 2025, part of a wider effort led by King Charles III to streamline royal residences and reduce costs associated with non-working members of the family.
An insider quoted by The Sun described the impasse in stark terms: "Andrew was evicted from Royal Lodge at Windsor but now has two homes at his disposal. He is just going back and forth between Wood Farm and Marsh Farm. It's got to be sorted as Edward and Sophie like to use Wood Farm."
The immediate consequence, according to the report, was that Edward and Sophie were redirected to Gardens House, a nearby property typically marketed as a public holiday rental. At peak periods, the residence can command rates of up to £4,110 per week, an arrangement that has drawn attention given the couple's status as senior working royals.
While no official confirmation has been issued by Buckingham Palace, the episode highlights the logistical and symbolic challenges facing the monarchy as it recalibrates its structure under Charles's reign. The king has sought to present a more disciplined, cost-conscious institution, but disputes over private arrangements risk exposing internal frictions.
Efforts to resolve the situation appear to be ongoing. Reports indicate that Edward visited Andrew at Sandringham for what was described as a "quiet word," suggesting that family members, rather than palace officials, are attempting to manage the transition.
The timeline for Andrew's move remains uncertain. While reports describe the relocation to Marsh Farm as "imminent," similar characterizations have surfaced repeatedly in recent months without a definitive resolution. Boxes of belongings have reportedly already been transferred, but Andrew is said to continue dividing his time between properties.
