King Charles’ recent actions regarding royal residences are causing a stir within the royal family, particularly influencing Prince Harry, according to royal commentators. The dispute mainly involves King Charles asking his brother, Prince Andrew, to leave the Royal Lodge in Windsor, where he has resided since 2003.
The move is seen as part of a broader effort to manage the royal family’s estates more efficiently following major public and private family changes. Prince Andrew, who stepped down from public office in 2019 following a controversial interview about his friendship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, was initially ordered to move to Frogmore Cottage.
This property is notably the former home of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle before their move to the United States. The decision to reallocate the residences has been interpreted as King Charles sending a “clear message” to Prince Harry about the future roles and accommodations of the royal family.
Royal commentator Tom Quinn said: “For King Charles, forcing Andrew to move to Frogmore solves several problems at once. He sends a message to Harry that, as a private citizen and no longer a royal, he will never be allowed to return to Frogmore.” Quinn continued telling her Mirror: “It sends a message to Andrew that, having fallen from grace, he can no longer hope to live large.
“And finally, it means that a grand residence fit for the royals who really matter, William and Kate, can be prepared. “Charles is determined that Royal Lodge will be the only residence on the royal estate of Windsor that is large and majestic enough for his heir.”
The 75-year-old monarch’s decision reflects a desire to consolidate royal holdings and perhaps improve the family’s public image amid ongoing scrutiny. This change not only affects Prince Andrew’s living conditions, but also indirectly indicates to Prince Harry the changing dynamics and expectations within the royal family under King Charles’ reign.
Currently, Prince Andrew remains in the Royal Lodge despite the pressure to move it. Nearby, Princess Kate and Prince William have taken up residence at Adelaide Cottage, underscoring the proximity and interconnected lives of members of the Windsor family. This intricate dance of royal residences continues to attract public interest and speculation about the underlying family dynamics and strategic decisions at play in these moves.