Prince Andrew has recently declared that he will no longer utilize the title Duke of York. This decision raises questions about his living arrangements and how it may impact his relationship with the monarchy. Despite his efforts to distance himself from his family due to controversies surrounding his connections to Jeffrey Epstein and allegations from Virginia Giuffre, Prince Andrew will still reside in a royal property.
Since the early 2000s, Prince Andrew has been living at the Royal Lodge in Windsor, where his ex-wife Sarah Ferguson also resides. Buckingham Palace confirmed that his living situation at the Royal Lodge will not be affected by his decision to relinquish his title. This assurance stems from Andrew’s private lease on the property, which extends until at least 2078.
The Royal Lodge, situated in Berkshire, about three miles south of Windsor Castle, has a rich history. Originally built as a farmhouse in 1662, it was later transformed into the grand residence it is today. The current structure, dating back to the 1800s, was expanded in the 1930s by the then Duke of York, King George VI. Queen Elizabeth II spent a significant part of her childhood at the Royal Lodge.
The property boasts a central three-story section with 30 rooms, including seven bedrooms and a chapel. As part of Prince Andrew’s lease, he also has access to the Chapel Lodge, a Gardener’s Cottage, six Lodge Cottages, and accommodations for police, all set on approximately 40 hectares of land.
The interior of the Royal Lodge reflects a blend of traditional royal styles and personal touches from various members of the monarchy who have resided there. Notably, the Queen Mother inhabited the residence from 1936 until her passing in 2002, leaving behind features like a spacious drawing room and a conservatory.
Despite ongoing controversies surrounding Prince Andrew’s association with Jeffrey Epstein, he has consistently denied any allegations against him.
