Prince William and Princess Kate have set a timeline for Prince Andrew’s departure from Royal Lodge before they transition to their new permanent residence nearby, according to sources within the royal circle.
The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are making arrangements to relocate to Forest Lodge in Windsor Great Park before Bonfire Night, but Prince William is reportedly adamant that his disgraced uncle vacates his 30-room mansion before their arrival. Prince Andrew’s reputation took a hit due to his association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, with allegations from Virginia Giuffre claiming that she was trafficked by Epstein to engage in sexual activities with Andrew when she was 17. Despite Andrew’s consistent denial of these claims, he recently announced his decision to relinquish all his royal titles, including the Duke of York, due to ongoing accusations against him.
Sources close to the situation revealed that William and Kate are insistent on Prince Andrew’s removal from Royal Lodge before they move nearby. The source emphasized Catherine’s discomfort at the prospect of residing so close to Royal Lodge while Prince Andrew remains there. William’s stance is firm in wanting Andrew out before their upcoming move. Negotiations regarding Andrew’s continued stay at Royal Lodge are ongoing, with public outrage mounting over the revelation that he pays a minimal rent for the expansive property. Despite Andrew having a secure lease preventing eviction, palace insiders believe he will eventually have to vacate due to the significant backlash.
In addition to these developments, William and Kate are using the half-term break to prepare their three children – George, Charlotte, and Louis – for the impending relocation. Originally, the couple had hoped to reside at Royal Lodge itself, but were compelled to settle for Adelaide Cottage in 2022 when Andrew refused to vacate. The decision to shift to Forest Lodge, an eight-bedroom Georgian mansion slightly over a mile from Royal Lodge, was made earlier this year. The couple views this location as an ideal environment to raise their children in a more rural and hands-on setting.
Both Royal Lodge and Forest Lodge are situated in secluded areas of Windsor Great Park, encompassed by fields and woodland where Prince Andrew frequently indulges in horse-riding. Recent reports suggest that Prince Andrew may be presented with an opportunity to utilize a lavish palace as part of a discreet exit strategy from Royal Lodge. Sources indicate that Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan of Abu Dhabi has extended a generous offer for Andrew to use one of his royal palaces, a sprawling waterfront estate surrounded by palm trees and sand dunes.