The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh were forced out of their usual place to stay due to Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor occupying it

he royal family gathered at Sandringham this weekend for Easter celebrations, stepping out in force for the Easter service at church on Sunday, including King Charles and his wife Queen Camilla as well as Prince William and his family.

 Prince Edward was also in attendance, alongside his son, James, Earl of Wessex. Duchess Sophie missed the occasion and HELLO! understands that this was because she was “under the weather”. Meanwhile, Edward and Sophie’s daughter, Lady Louise Windsor, was too busy studying for her university degree.

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The Prince Edward, Duke of Edinburgh and The Princess Royal attends the Easter Service at St George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle in Windsor, United Kingdom on April 05, 2026

 Sophie failing to attend was not the first change of plan of the weekend, though, as the Edinburghs were forced to change their accommodation this year due to Edward’s disgraced brother, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor.

The royal couple usually stay at Wood Farm; however, this is where Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor is currently residing as he awaits renovations to be completed on his new Wolferton home, Marsh Farm. It was originally believed that the deadline for the former Prince to move into the permanent accommodation was before Easter, but it looks as though that has been slightly delayed.

Prince Edward and Duchess Sophie’s five-star stay

 Although the royals may have been put out by the change of arrangements, they managed to get a rather good deal. HELLO! can confirm they stayed at Gardens House, a holiday rental that His Majesty usually allows the public to stay in. While it has one less bedroom than Wood Farm (four not five), the interiors are incredibly beautiful and up to date due to it being a rental property. Images on the Sandringham website show it has charming decor throughout with floral wallpaper, vintage items and a cosy feel. Outside, there is a patio area for dining and the listing also allows dogs, so the vast garden is ideal for exploring.

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Gardens House at Sandringham, which is available on Airbnb

It is advertised on the Oliver’s Travels website and has garnered five star reviews from many patrons. A previous guest wrote: “Beautiful and charming, the home and its surrounding gardens were a delight.”

The rates listed on the site show it can cost up to £3,000 for a three-night break in peak season. It is fully booked until the end of the Easter holidays, but available to stay in from next Saturday 12 April.

Oliver’s Travels website states: “Once home to the Estate’s head gardener, this handsome brick residence now offers guests a rare invitation to experience the grace and quiet rhythm of life on one of Britain’s most storied country estates.

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Wood Farm where Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor is currently staying

Easter family upset

 It is a testing time for the family in the wake of the Epstein scandal and Andrew being stripped of his royal titles. Unsurprisingly, the Easter invite was not extended to the former royal, and his two daughters missed out on the family gathering, too. HELLO! understands that, with the agreement and understanding of The King, Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie have made alternative plans for this Easter. However, they are very much part of the family, as seen during their recent appearance at Christmas in Sandringham, and will be seen at future family celebrations.

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Sandringham estate is where the family have spent time this Easter

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The sisters didn’t attend the Easter celebrations this year amid the drama

 Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor’s new home

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A general view of Marsh Farm showing new wooden gates where Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor is due to relocate from Wood Farm on the Sandringham estate

 Andrew would have been used to a life of grandeur in the 30-room mansion, Royal Lodge. Now, he’s set to relocate to a more modest five-bed cottage called Marsh Farm. Over the past few weeks, the property has been overrun with tradespeople who have worked tirelessly to transform the place to make it welcoming for Andrew. There have been additions of carpets, new flooring, Sky TV and precious artwork shipped from Windsor.

 The King’s brother will also have access to his own stables that have been recently renovated, so he can come with his beloved horses.

What’s next for Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor?

Andrew was arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office on his 66th birthday on 19 February, amid his links to Jeffrey Epstein.  The former royal remains under investigation for this, and police have said it will take a while before any conclusion is reached.

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Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor has been stripped of his royal titles and honours and now lives in exhile

 It has been rumoured that Andrew must abide by strict rules at Sandringham and the King has advised him about what he can or cannot do in his new life in exile. Photographers have captured him around the grounds, embracing his new surroundings.