Separate accommodations highlight ongoing family tensions
The annual summer gathering at Balmoral has once again cast a spotlight on the strained relationship between the Duke of York and the Prince of Wales. Insiders say it is “no coincidence” that Andrew has been placed in separate accommodation away from William during the family stay in the Scottish Highlands.
Balmoral, often described as the royal family’s most private retreat, has already welcomed King Charles and Queen Camilla. His Majesty arrived in a kilt, inspecting a guard of honour and even a Shetland pony at the castle gates. The King and Queen are expected to host the wider family over the coming weeks, including William and Catherine.
Andrew, meanwhile, is staying with his former wife Sarah Ferguson at Craigowan Lodge, a property on the estate. Sources told The Times the decision was deliberate, reflecting the efforts to keep distance between him and William. It is notable given Andrew’s absence from the traditional Sandringham gathering earlier this year, with his return to Balmoral now seen by some as a gesture of support from the King.
A forthcoming biography, The Rise and Fall of the Yorks by Andrew Lownie, sheds further light on the rift. According to the book, William has long been uneasy with Andrew’s lifestyle, his controversial associations, and questionable money-making ventures. It even alleges Andrew once made inappropriate remarks about Catherine, a matter still veiled in secrecy.
The biography also claims that William has sought to remove Andrew and Sarah Ferguson from Royal Lodge, their 30-room Windsor residence, due to Andrew’s failure to maintain the property. These long-standing issues continue to fuel speculation that the relationship between the two men is unlikely to improve anytime soon.
