In a rare public appearance, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor was photographed interacting with members of the public on the grounds of the Windsor estate this week.
A Chance Encounter on the Long Walk
The former Duke of York was seen speaking to dog walkers through the window of his black Range Rover after they reportedly blocked the path of his vehicle along the Long Walk. Images from the encounter, which took place on January 17, 2026, show Andrew, 66, beaming from behind the wheel during the brief exchange.
This sighting marks a notable moment for the disgraced royal, who has largely retreated from public view since King Charles III stripped him of his royal titles and military affiliations last year. His appearances have been scarce following the fallout from his association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
The Impending Move from Royal Lodge
The sighting comes amid a significant transition for Andrew, who is under pressure to vacate his long-term home, the 30-room Royal Lodge in Windsor Great Park. Earlier this week, a removal van was spotted outside the property, signalling the beginning of his departure after a 22-year residence.
He had lived at the lodge rent-free thanks to a 75-year lease negotiated in 2003, which required him to maintain the property and allow inspections. However, it was reported last week by the Daily Mail that no such inspections had taken place during his entire tenure.
Andrew is now expected to move into temporary accommodation before settling into Marsh Farm on the Sandringham estate in Norfolk. Work on the property is anticipated to be completed by Easter.
Background and Ongoing Controversies
The former prince was forced to step back from public duties after details of his controversial friendship with Jeffrey Epstein emerged. He also faces a civil lawsuit from Virginia Giuffre, who accuses him of sexual assault, a claim he vehemently denies.
Further scrutiny has followed his time as the UK's trade envoy, with allegations of extravagant spending of public funds. These include claims he insisted on luxury hotel stays funded by taxpayers and an alleged incident involving prostitutes in a Bangkok hotel room.
Andrew has consistently denied all allegations of wrongdoing.
