Sarah Ferguson Prepares to Leave Royal Lodge: End of Long Cohabitation with Prince Andrew in Early 2026

Sarah Ferguson is set to move out of Royal Lodge, the Windsor Great Park mansion she has shared with her ex-husband Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor (formerly Prince Andrew, Duke of York) for more than two decades since their 1996 divorce. Multiple reports from January 2026 confirm that the former Duchess of York is actively planning her departure, marking the end of one of the most unusual post-divorce living arrangements in modern royal history.

The move coincides with Andrew’s accelerated eviction from the 30-room property, which he has occupied under a 75-year lease since 2003. Key details include:

Removal trucks were spotted at Royal Lodge in mid-January 2026, with preparations underway for a swift exit.
Andrew faces a tight timeline to vacate, potentially by late January (some sources point to around January 25), before his February 19 birthday, or by Easter (April 2026) at the latest.
Temporary interim accommodation has been offered on the Sandringham estate in Norfolk to allow a faster transition.
His new designated residence is Marsh Farm, a smaller five-bedroom former farmhouse on the Sandringham estate, about two miles from Sandringham House.
Renovations at Marsh Farm are progressing, including security upgrades (CCTV, fencing), though the property is in a flood-risk zone with government alerts advising monitoring for potential flooding from nearby bogland.

Sarah Ferguson, who has maintained a separate wing at Royal Lodge, is reportedly house-hunting independently. Options under consideration include properties near Windsor, a possible temporary stay at Princess Eugenie’s home in Portugal (Costa Golf and Ocean Club), or a base in the United States or Cotswolds. Sources emphasize her desire for a completely independent residence, free from association with Andrew’s ongoing situation.

The decision aligns with broader changes under King Charles III’s vision for a slimmed-down monarchy. Andrew’s titles and honors were formally removed in late 2025, including the “Prince” style, “His Royal Highness” designation, military affiliations, and patronages. He is now legally Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor. Security and financial support have been significantly reduced, making the large Royal Lodge untenable.

Ferguson has long defended Andrew publicly, describing them as “the happiest divorced couple in the world.” She stood by him through major controversies, including the 2019 Newsnight interview and Epstein-related fallout. However, recent developments—particularly the king’s firm stance on property and funding—appear to have prompted her pragmatic step toward separation.

The couple’s daughters, Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie, maintain relationships with both parents but lead independent lives with their own families. Beatrice resides in the Cotswolds, while Eugenie splits time between the UK and Portugal.

Ferguson continues her reinvention through writing (historical novels and children’s books), media appearances, charity work, and personal health advocacy following battles with breast and skin cancer. Reports suggest she views the move as an opportunity to focus on her own brand and career, particularly in markets like the United States where she has found success.

Andrew’s future appears more isolated. Without Sarah as a daily presence, he faces the transition to a smaller property alone, with limited public role or support. Royal commentators note the emotional and practical challenges ahead, though he retains private family ties.

This separation simplifies the Royal Lodge situation for the palace, removing the “family home” dynamic and allowing clearer management of the estate. It reflects the king’s emphasis on institutional priorities over individual arrangements.

Sources:

The Sun (January 2026: eviction timeline, removal trucks, Marsh Farm flood risks, temporary accommodation)
HELLO! Magazine (January 2026: Marsh Farm renovations, interim housing details)
Marie Claire, People (January 2026: relocation updates, Sandringham preparations, Ferguson’s independent plans)
Daily Mail, OK! Magazine (January 2026: cohabitation end, house-hunting reports)
BBC, The Times (2025 title and honors removal confirmations)