Ex-Prince Andrew is reportedly heading into Christmas with a very different setup this year, with this expected to be his last holiday season at Royal Lodge, and people close to him say he is aware of the changing circumstances. The Royal Lodge was Andrew’s home for more than two decades. Now, a source claimed that the mood in the house is noticeably flat, saying there’s “an end-of-era feel” around the place.
Ex-Prince Andrew is ‘struggling to come to terms with his loss of status,’ per source
The Daily Mail reported that with the rest of the royal family preparing for Christmas in Sandringham, ex-Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson will be spending the holiday at Royal Lodge without their daughters. Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie are not expected to visit, leaving Andrew and Ferguson on their own for most of the day. Decorations inside the house are reportedly minimal, just a tree and a few simple touches.
The source told the tabloid that Andrew is still trying to adjust to everything that has changed in recent months, including losing his titles and now using his Mountbatten‑Windsor name. The source said he hasn’t come to terms with it and still expects the staff to address him as “Sir.” Hence, “he is struggling to come to terms with his loss of status.”
In the weeks leading up to Christmas, Crown Estate and Royal Collection staff have been in and out of the house to assess what must be removed before he eventually leaves. The source claimed that the process has been tough for Andrew because it makes the move feel much closer.
Christmas Day is expected to be relatively low-key for the former prince. With no large gathering planned, Andrew will likely watch the king’s speech at 3 p.m. and then keep the rest of the day quiet. The Daily Mail explained that he may attend a church service nearby, something he regularly does, but nothing formal has been announced.
This Christmas marks the start of an uncertain stretch for ex-Prince Andrew — one that involves facing the reality of losing the Royal Lodge.
Originally reported by Ishika Mishra on Reality Tea.
