As the royal family gathered for their traditional Christmas celebrations at Sandringham in December 2025, one notable absence highlighted the deepening rift within the House of York. Princess Beatrice, daughter of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor (formerly Prince Andrew) and Sarah Ferguson, reportedly chose not to spend the holidays with her father at Royal Lodge—opting instead for a low-key escape amid renewed scrutiny over Andrew’s long-standing Epstein associations. This decision, described by some as a deliberate boundary, marks a poignant shift in family dynamics during what is Andrew’s final festive season at the historic Windsor residence.

Here are serene glimpses of the snowy slopes and winter getaways that evoke Beatrice’s reported skiing holiday abroad with husband Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi and close friends:

rsvplive.ie

theroyalobserver.com

graziadaily.co.uk

Initial reports suggested Beatrice faced a tough choice: join her parents for their last Christmas at Royal Lodge before vacating the property, or attend the wider family’s gathering at Sandringham. Instead, she sidestepped both, reportedly heading abroad to avoid the intense media spotlight and any potential embarrassment tied to the latest Epstein file releases. This move was framed as practical self-preservation—protecting her own family life and reputation while navigating loyalty to both sides.

These recent photos capture Beatrice and Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi in happier, more relaxed moments from 2025:

people.com

people.com

While Beatrice stayed away, the contrast was stark at Royal Lodge, where the usual festive cheer was notably absent. For the first time in nearly two decades, no wreaths adorned the gates, and the traditional rooftop Christmas tree was missing—symbolizing the somber mood as Andrew prepared to leave the 30-room mansion.

Here are exterior views of Windsor-area royal residences, including the understated look of Royal Lodge without its typical holiday decorations:

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telegraph.co.uk

Andrew was spotted riding alone through Windsor Great Park around this time, a solitary figure far from the family unity on display elsewhere.

These poignant images show Andrew on horseback in the park, underscoring his isolation during the season:

people.com

people.com

Ultimately, Beatrice’s choice reflects a careful balance: maintaining ties with the wider royal family while setting personal boundaries amid ongoing challenges. In a year of profound change for the Yorks, this Christmas highlighted not just absence, but the quiet evolution of loyalties and priorities within the monarchy.