Prince Andrew Keeps Royal Lodge After Dispute with King Charles
Duke of York's connection to Jeffrey Epstein mentioned in royal housing conflict
Prince Andrew has reportedly secured his continued residence at the Royal Lodge following a prolonged dispute with his brother, King Charles, according to recent reporting from the Express. The Duke of York presented documentation showing his legal entitlement to remain at the 31-room property located on the grounds of Windsor Castle, effectively ending attempts to relocate him to smaller accommodations.
The housing conflict emerged in the aftermath of Prince Andrew's association with Jeffrey Epstein, the late American financier. This connection resulted in Andrew's removal from royal duties and the subsequent termination of financial support from the King, including security costs estimated at $4 million annually. Despite financial pressures, Andrew reportedly secured an anonymous financial backer in late 2024, allowing him to maintain his residence.
KEY POINTS
- •Prince Andrew retains Royal Lodge
- •Epstein connection mentioned in context
- •Mystery financial backer involved
King Charles had previously attempted to relocate his brother to Frogmore Cottage, which became vacant after Prince Harry and Meghan Markle departed in 2023. Reports suggested the King considered making the Royal Lodge available for the Prince and Princess of Wales and their children, though they ultimately decided against pursuing the property and are seeking alternative accommodations.
Prince Andrew has occupied the Royal Lodge since 2004 and currently shares the residence with his former spouse, Sarah Ferguson. The source of Andrew's new funding remains undisclosed, prompting calls from the UK government for transparency regarding his financial arrangements. His only publicly known steady income derives from a Royal Navy pension.
The resolution of this royal housing dispute represents a significant development in the ongoing adjustments within the British royal family following Prince Andrew's diminished role. The situation highlights the intersection of personal relationships, institutional protocols, and the continuing repercussions of Andrew's association with Jeffrey Epstein, which has had lasting implications for his position within the monarchy.