A moving lorry was seen departing Royal Lodge, signaling a significant change for Prince Andrew as he prepares for a new, more private life. The departure marks the end of an era at the grand estate, a residence he occupied for over two decades.
His destination is Marsh Farm, a considerably more modest property nestled within the King’s Sandringham Estate. The farmhouse is located in the quiet village of Wolferton, a place steeped in royal history, yet lacking the bustle of village life with no pubs or shops.
Wolferton itself holds a unique connection to the Royal Family, once boasting an elegant railway station built in 1862, the very year Queen Victoria acquired Sandringham House. Generations of royals and their guests would arrive there, awaiting transport to the magnificent estate.
Marsh Farm isn’t quite ready for immediate occupancy. Currently, Andrew is residing in a temporary property while extensive renovations continue, aiming for completion by Easter. The transformation includes modern amenities like Sky TV and a significant upgrade to the property’s security.
Workers have been diligently preparing the farmhouse, braving the cold and rain to install new security lights and a six-foot wooden fence, replacing the existing wire mesh. A local security firm’s presence underscores the emphasis on privacy and protection.
Those familiar with the property reveal that Marsh Farm required substantial work to become habitable. The estate has also been added to the Sandringham no-fly zone, with a drone ban implemented last autumn, further reinforcing the desire for seclusion.
Initially, Andrew reportedly expressed interest in Wood Farm, a cottage closer to the stables and shooting grounds. However, concerns arose that this location would place him too near other members of the Royal Family.
The circumstances surrounding Andrew’s departure from Royal Lodge have also brought scrutiny to the terms of his lease. Remarkably, the property wasn’t inspected once during his 22 years of rent-free occupancy, despite stipulations requiring regular access for maintenance checks.
The agreement, signed in 2003, allowed Andrew to live rent-free in exchange for an £8 million investment in repairs and a commitment to upkeep, with inspectors granted access “at all reasonable times.” This arrangement allowed for decades of occupancy without financial obligation to the estate.
