- Sarah Ferguson's empty Belgravia pad sparks speculation
- Fergie purchased the property without a mortgage two years ago
- Andrew and Sarah appear uninterested in moving into her exclusive flat
In the heart of London's posh Belgravia lies a mystery as opulent as it is unoccupied: a £4 million Georgian apartment owned by none other than Sarah Ferguson, Duchess of York. Despite its prime location and royal connections, this lavish two-bedroom has been left largely empty, stirring the pot of public curiosity. Why, amidst their current housing controversy with King Charles over Windsor Lodge, aren't Prince Andrew and Fergie considering this as their new royal retreat?
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A royal residence rejected?
Purchased in June 2022 for a princely sum, this exclusive property boasts all the trappings of royalty yet remains a ghostly presence in its cobbled mews. Neighbors whisper of its quiet, with the Duchess seen only "fleetingly," sparking questions about the Yorks' reluctance to relocate. With renovations and repairs plaguing their Windsor abode and Charles' eviction efforts escalating, one would think this Belgravia haven a perfect escape. Yet, the doors remain closed to the possibility.
Described as a "nest egg" for Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie, the townhouse's status as a long-term investment might be the clue. Despite Sarah Ferguson's past financial foibles, this purchase—reportedly with the daughters' backing—suggests a future-focused strategy rather than an immediate housing solution. Even as it hits the rental market at £16,500 a month, the family's ties to their Windsor home appear unbreakable, with royal expert Andrew Lownie doubting a move is in the cards.
The Windsor Lodge woes
The backdrop to this property puzzle is the ongoing saga at Windsor Lodge. Reports of King Charles' desire to oust Andrew and Sarah, coupled with the Duke's financial struggles to maintain the 30-room mansion, paint a picture of royal unrest. Yet, with both York daughters maintaining nearby London residences, the Belgravia flat's strategic location seems underutilized.
As speculation swirls, the future of the York family's residence remains as uncertain as the occupancy of their Belgravia property. With options like Frogmore Cottage and other royal residences on the table, only time will tell where Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson will call home next. But one thing's for sure: in the game of royal real estate, the Yorks' next move is anyone's guess.