Marsh Farm Renovation: Prince Andrew’s New Home at Sandringham

Marsh Farm, once a quiet place on King Charles III’s Sandringham Estate in Norfolk, is now in the international media spotlight. As of February 2026, the farmhouse is being renovated to become the new permanent home of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, formerly the Duke of York.

This change marks the end of his two-decade stay at the 30-room Royal Lodge in Windsor. It is largely due to the downsizing of his royal lifestyle and public presence.

The Current Status of Marsh Farm

Marsh Farm is in the village of Wolferton, about two miles from Sandringham House. This five-bedroom brick farmhouse had been empty for several years. Recent reports confirm that it is now being renovated:

• Upgrades and Security: In early 2026, contractors put up new 2-metre (6ft) wooden fencing. They also added security cameras and improved the lighting. They also added high-speed communication cabling, including Sky TV, to upgrade the property.
• Renovation Delays: The project was meant to finish by January, but the repairs to make the “ramshackle” property livable have delayed the move-in date. It is now expected to be ready for full occupation by Easter 2026.
• Interim Housing: Since the farm isn’t ready yet, Andrew has moved to Wood Farm Cottage. This is the same modest place where Prince Philip spent much of his retirement. He’ll stay there until they finish the final touches on Marsh Farm.

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Life at Marsh Farm: Rules and Reality

Moving to Marsh Farm brings changes that show how strictly the estate is run:

• The “No Cats” Rule: One key point about the move is Sandringham’s “no cats” policy. This rule helps protect the pheasant chicks that are raised for royal shoots. This has led to some unintended humor in the local press. Someone spotted a rat control van at Marsh Farm. The contractors are having a hard time with the rodent issue. They don’t have any cats to help control it.
• Environmental Issues: The estate is located on a flood plain. Recent flood warnings in the Wolferton area highlight risks to the estate if local pumping stations fail. This situation has led people to call it a “boggy exodus.””
• Privacy Arrangements: A drone is now in effect over the estate and nearby areas. This aims to protect the former prince’s privacy.

Broader Context

King Charles III is financing the renovation work privately. The Sandringham Estate is his personal property, not part of the Crown Estate. Sarah Ferguson, the Duchess of York, lived with Andrew at Royal Lodge but is not moving to Marsh Farm. She is searching for a new home in Windsor or London.

The arrival of a high-profile resident in Wolferton, which has fewer than 200 people, has sparked mixed reactions. Some are curious about security, while others worry about the village’s quiet atmosphere.

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