Royal Lodge is in the centre of royal news after Buckingham Palace confirmed that Andrew Mountbatten Windsor (formerly the Duke of York) will leave the property. This residence, set deep within Windsor Great Park, has long served as a private retreat for members of the royal family.
The lodge dates back to the 17th century, when a modest building stood on the site. By the early 1800s, it had become a favoured escape for King George IV, who reshaped it into a picturesque country home. Its purpose was clear: a place for quiet living away from the formalities of court.
In the 20th century, Royal Lodge became a family home. King George VI and Queen Elizabeth (later the Queen Mother) settled there, and it was within these grounds that the future Queen Elizabeth II and Princess Margaret spent much of their childhood. After the King’s death, the Queen Mother continued to use the property as her residence until her death in 2002.
Most recently, it has drawn attention because of Andrew’s ties to Jeffrey Epstein. The lease agreement Andrew had for the residence has drawn scrutiny from Parliament, journalists, and the public at large. How the residence will be used now that it is vacant has yet to be determined.
Despite the controversy, the estate is still known for its architecture, extensive gardens, and the Royal Chapel of All Saints. It has witnessed private family life for generations. With its future now uncertain, Royal Lodge remains a symbol of continuity and change within the royal household.
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