King Charles is preparing to host his relatives for the annual royal Christmas celebrations, while his brother Andrew faces a different festive season after being excluded from the family gatherings. Andrew, the former Duke of York, has experienced a tumultuous year, being stripped of his titles and having to vacate his luxurious Royal Lodge residence to relocate to the Sandringham estate.
The King took official action in October to remove Andrew’s HRH style, prince title, and dukedom from the Roll of the Peerage due to what was termed as “serious lapses” of judgment following the release of documents from Epstein’s estate and a memoir by Virginia Giuffre, who accused Andrew. Despite Andrew denying any wrongdoing, his relationship with the Royal Family has notably deteriorated.
As the Royal Family prepares to celebrate Christmas at Sandringham, Andrew is unlikely to be present, given the strained dynamics within the family. This exclusion is not unprecedented, as Andrew was previously asked to stay away last year due to his association with an alleged Chinese spy. His current residence, Royal Lodge, has been described as neglected, with signs of his impending departure evident.
Plans are underway for Andrew to move to Marsh Farm, a farmhouse on the Sandringham estate, as renovations have begun to accommodate his relocation. His ex-wife Sarah Ferguson, with whom he resided at Royal Lodge, is also making separate housing arrangements. The strain of recent events, including the Epstein scandal, has reportedly affected their relationship.
Looking ahead, Andrew is expected to start the new year in Norfolk, away from Royal Lodge, with ongoing concerns about potential future scandals and financial dealings. Despite the challenges he faces, Andrew is poised to embrace a fresh start in 2026.