Duke of York under pressure to leave Windsor residence after security withdrawal.
A sombre-looking Duke of York was recently seen riding through Windsor Great Park, shortly after returning from the royal family's annual Balmoral retreat. Clad in a burgundy jumper, Prince Andrew appeared tense during the outing, followed by a drive back to his home at Royal Lodge.
This sighting follows reports that Andrew may be forced to vacate his Windsor residence by October, as King Charles has reportedly withdrawn his private security detail. The decision to end the 10-man security team, which has been privately funded by the King since the Duke lost his police protection in 2022, is seen as a strategic move to increase pressure on Andrew to leave the property.
Prince Andrew, who has lived in the 31-room Royal Lodge for over 20 years under a 75-year lease, remains adamant about staying. However, sources suggest that King Charles wishes him to vacate, with one insider noting, "It isn’t a secret that the King wants him out." Despite this, Andrew has reportedly informed the King of his intention to fulfil the remaining 55 years of his lease, resisting suggestions to move to Frogmore Cottage, now vacant after being vacated by the Duke and Duchess of Sussex.
Without any formal royal duties since being stripped of his titles in 2022, the Duke spends his time on hobbies like horse riding and golf. However, a more unusual pastime—watching global air traffic on a projector screen—has drawn attention, with reports that Andrew has become fixated on this planespotting app.
As the October deadline approaches, Andrew faces growing pressure to leave Royal Lodge, compounded by rising maintenance costs, including a £200,000 roof repair bill.
