Prince Andrew has transitioned from his residence at Royal Lodge to Marsh Farm on the Sandringham Estate, a move that comes amid intensified scrutiny regarding his connections to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. This relocation represents a significant shift as the royal family seeks to distance itself from the ongoing controversy surrounding Andrew’s past associations.
Situated approximately seven miles from King’s Lynn, the hamlet of Wolferton offers a stark contrast to the grandeur of royal life. Once a favored retreat for the British monarchy, the area now serves as a backdrop for Andrew’s quieter existence. Following the release of new documents related to Epstein, King Charles has taken unprecedented steps to reassert royal boundaries, moving his brother under the cover of darkness from the 30-room Royal Lodge to the more modest Marsh Farm.
Although the estate boasts expansive grounds and historical significance, the atmosphere is markedly different from the royal lifestyle Andrew once knew. The local community revolves around the extensive Sandringham Estate, which includes dog-friendly parkland and occasional public events. While tourists flock to the area during the festive season to catch a glimpse of the royal family at St Mary Magdalene Church, the mood has shifted dramatically with Andrew’s presence.
The landscape around Wolferton, characterized by flat terrain and a sense of isolation, mirrors the current state of Andrew’s public image. Residents, including Chris Thompson from King’s Lynn, have expressed concern over the former prince’s situation, noting that the area lacks amenities that would typically support someone of his stature. “I would have thought King Charles is supporting him with his bills, but it’s a bit bleak out there,” Thompson remarked.
Arriving at Marsh Farm, the house is surprisingly unassuming. While it could be a dream home for many, it lacks the regal presence one might expect for someone from the royal family. The property features five bedrooms and has been described as “cramped” by sources close to Andrew, who reportedly is not pleased with the downsizing.
The transition to Marsh Farm is compounded by Andrew’s need for heightened security. With plans for a “huge security overhaul” already in motion, the property will require significant renovations before he can fully relocate, which is anticipated around April 2026. The estate’s location on a flood plain has raised additional concerns, prompting local authorities to issue alerts regarding water surges from nearby bogs.
Despite the turbulent circumstances, Andrew has maintained his denial of any wrongdoing related to his association with Epstein. His past connections have resurfaced, particularly following the release of emails by the U.S. Department of Justice, which suggest he shared details of official visits with Epstein during his time as a UK trade envoy. In response, the anti-monarchy group Republic has filed a police report, which the Thames Valley Police are currently assessing.
Statements from Buckingham Palace indicate that King Charles is “profoundly concerned” about the ongoing allegations against Andrew. The royal family has expressed a commitment to support investigations as necessary, with both Prince Edward and representatives for the Prince and Princess of Wales emphasizing the importance of focusing on the victims involved in these serious matters.
As Andrew adapts to life at Marsh Farm, the implications of his past continue to cast a long shadow over his future. The move marks a significant chapter in the royal narrative, one that intertwines personal struggles with the evolving perceptions of the British monarchy. The question remains whether this new chapter will alter the public’s fascination with the royal family or simply deepen the intrigue surrounding its most controversial member.
