Recent speculation about Prince Andrew potentially being evicted from his Royal Lodge has made headlines, but a new twist in the royal family’s property situation may be unfolding, thanks to King Charles.
The King could be considering a significant gesture towards the royal family’s secret weapon, Duchess Sophie, and Prince Edward, by granting them the Royal Lodge on the Windsor estate.
Currently, this is where Prince Andrew and his ex-wife Sarah Ferguson reside. Royal expert Richard Kay revealed to the Daily Mail that King Charles has considered giving the property to his youngest brother, Prince Edward, as a way to thank him and his wife, Duchess Sophie, for stepping up during a challenging time.
The couple has taken on more responsibilities, filling in for Charles and Kate Middleton as they navigate their health issues.
Kay stated, “The King has been greatly impressed by how Edward and Sophie have increased their workload since their elevation to Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh. The two haven’t always seen eye to eye, but they have filled the many gaps left by both Kate and Charles during their illness treatments.”
Sophie and the late Queen Elizabeth II grew closer after Sophie married Edward in 1999. As part of her royal duties, Sophie recently spent four days in Iraq and regularly attends events like Royal Ascot and Wimbledon. She has a particularly sweet relationship with Princess Charlotte. According to the BBC’s Jenny Bond, Sophie is adored by the public for her charming and humble nature, making her an asset to the Royals when someone needs to step up. Bond explained, “Sophie is a naturally humble woman, clearly still very much in love with her husband. She has grown into her role without seeking the spotlight, and she’s also grown close to Middleton.”
Sophie is known for her supportive and generous personality. She’s always been happy to act as a mentor, confidant, or simply a friend to share a laugh with, which makes her a valuable ally for Catherine. The Mirror reports that Prince Andrew has also been offered use of a smaller royal property, Queen Elizabeth’s Craigowan Lodge on the Balmoral estate. This seven-bedroom lodge is famously known as the location where the late Princess Diana and Prince Charles announced their engagement in 1981.