Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, King Charles III’s younger brother, is at a crossroads, and his next steps remain uncertain.
The former Duke of York, once a prominent figure in the British royal family, has been stripped of his titles and official duties and is preparing to leave Royal Lodge, a residence within the Windsor estate.
While Sandringham House, a historic royal estate in Norfolk, England, was initially considered a likely option, a new report suggests Andrew could instead seek a fresh start far from Britain—potentially in the Middle East. Such a move could offer both greater privacy and the recognition that he may no longer find at home.
Newsweek has contacted Andrew’s representatives for comment.
Why It Matters
Andrew’s next move could affect both his personal privacy and the monarchy’s image. Once a prominent royal, his reputation has been overshadowed by ties to Jeffrey Epstein, the late American financier and convicted sex offender. The former prince has received renewed scrutiny following the release of a posthumous memoir by Virginia Giuffre, one of Epstein’s most high-profile accusers, and previously undisclosed Epstein files.
Whether he remains in the U.K. or relocates to a country such as Bahrain, where he previously conducted business, his choice could signal how the royal family handles members whose reputations have been tarnished, shaping public perception at home and abroad.
What To Know
According to a new report by People, Andrew’s next move could take him outside Britain, with the Middle East emerging as a likely option.
Royal biographer Robert Jobson told the publication that recent meetings between Charles and Bahrain’s King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa may influence Andrew’s plans. “The King saw the King of Bahrain the other day. One never knows—it could be a place where Andrew gets the recognition of being the second son of Queen Elizabeth, rather than this,” Jobson said.
Bahrain, a wealthy island nation in the Persian Gulf, could offer both privacy and social recognition away from intense media scrutiny in the U.K.
Limited Options
The former Duke of York may consider staying in Britain, but his options are limited. Royal biographer Andrew Lownie said Sandringham House was unlikely to appeal. “He doesn’t like the sound of being on the Sandringham estate. I think he wants to go somewhere where he can just get away from everything,” Lownie told People.
The outlet’s report also noted practical considerations that could shape his decision, including security arrangements, travel logistics and the cost of maintaining his lifestyle.
Advisers are weighing these factors alongside public perception, suggesting that Andrew’s choice will need to balance privacy, convenience and distance from ongoing controversy.
What Happens Next
Andrew’s departure from Royal Lodge is imminent, but his next destination remains unclear. Whether he relocates abroad or stays in Britain under ongoing media scrutiny, his decision could reshape his public image and signal how the British royal family manages members marred by controversy.
Whatever path Andrew chooses, it will mark a new chapter for the former Duke of York, shaping both his personal freedom and the public’s perception of a once-prominent royal.