Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson have resided together for more than two decades despite their divorce in 1996. Following their separation, Ferguson has referred to herself and Andrew as the “happiest divorced couple.”

However, their association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein has drawn significant criticism in recent years. Andrew, 65, has faced numerous scandals, including accusations in a court filing on December 30, 2014, alleging his involvement in sexual activities with Virginia Roberts Giuffre when she was a minor and reportedly trafficked by Epstein in March 2001.

During a BBC Newsnight interview in November 2019, Andrew vehemently denied all allegations, claiming he had no memory of meeting Virginia and placing himself at a Pizza Express restaurant in Woking on the alleged night. Andrew maintains his innocence and refutes any wrongdoing.

In a recent announcement, Prince Andrew disclosed his decision, made after discussions with his brother King Charles and other family members, to relinquish the use of his titles, including Duke of York. Despite vehemently denying the accusations against him, Andrew expressed regret over his past association with Jeffrey Epstein and previously stepped down from all public duties on November 10, 2019.

As a consequence of Prince Andrew’s decision to forego his royal titles, his former wife, Sarah Ferguson, must also relinquish the use of the Duchess of York title she retained post-divorce, as she relinquished her right to the Her Royal Highness title according to the terms of their divorce in August 1996.

Their residence on the Windsor Castle estate, known as Royal Lodge, has been a subject of interest due to its deteriorating condition. The Grade II listed building, located just 3.2 miles from Windsor Castle, with 30 rooms, including seven bedrooms, has experienced issues such as disintegrating rendering, peeling paint, and black mold infestation.

Despite being situated on the Windsor Castle estate, the Met’s royal protection branch has been observed at the gates with a plastic barrier in use. Reports suggest that efforts have been made to persuade Prince Andrew to vacate Royal Lodge and relocate to Frogmore Cottage, the former residence of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, although Andrew is reportedly adamant about his right to stay due to a secure lease agreement.