At the heart of this renewed tension is the significant financial burden. King Charles currently covers Andrew's security bill, which costs £3 million annually. Despite holding a long lease on Royal Lodge at 64, Prince Andrew's financial reliance on the King could force him to move if funds are restricted, making it difficult to maintain the Grade II-listed property.
Andrew, recently spotted riding his horse near his Windsor home, has resided at Royal Lodge since 2004, sharing it with his ex-wife, Sarah Ferguson. The estate, dating back to the mid-17th century, was first used as a royal residence in the 1930s, gifted to George VI and the Queen Mother as a weekend retreat.
The Queen Mother enhanced the property, adding a mini cottage called Y Bwthyn Bach, gifted to Princess Elizabeth in 1932. After King George VI's death in 1952, she continued living there until her death in 2002, with Queen Elizabeth II by her side.
Following her death, Prince Andrew leased Royal Lodge, including additional buildings and 40 hectares of land. Royal insiders suggest Sarah Ferguson might convince Andrew to accept a smaller home. If he vacates, the lease could return to the Crown Estate, possibly opening the door for private tenants. There’s also speculation that the Prince and Princess of Wales might move in.
Currently, William, Kate, and their three children live in Adelaide Cottage, a smaller Windsor residence. However, royal historian Robert Hardman suggests the move to Royal Lodge is unlikely. According to Hardman, William and Kate are very happy in their current home, enjoying family privacy without extensive staff. An official remarked that while a move "might happen," it is not planned.
