As King Charles looks to redefine the monarchy, Duchess Sophie and her husband Prince Edward are reportedly at the center of significant changes involving royal residences and family dynamics. Recent reports indicate that the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh are potential candidates to move into Royal Lodge, the current residence of Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson. This shift would mark a notable change, as King Charles is said to be eager to reassign the property. The king aims to relocate the Duke of York to Frogmore Cottage, previously the home of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. However, Prince Andrew, who’s resided at Royal Lodge since 2003, is reportedly reluctant to leave his 30-room mansion, citing a 75-year lease and the estate’s historical significance as reasons for staying.

Sources suggest that Sophie and Edward could take over Royal Lodge, with Sophie described as a serious contender for this role. An insider told Women’s Day magazine that Sophie and Edward’s potential move has complicated the situation, prompting King Charles to address his plan openly. This has led to a tense atmosphere, with rumors of a possible intervention by Prince William if the issue is not resolved soon. Royal author Gareth Russell has also noted that while The Prince and Princess of Wales might seem like a natural choice, they’ve shown little interest in moving, making the Edinburgh couple a more viable option.

King Charles’s intentions extend beyond just reshuffling residences. The king is reportedly concerned about ensuring that Queen Camilla has a secure home for the future. As a result, he wishes to establish a stable residence for her in Windsor, potentially involving Sophie and Edward as caretakers of Royal Lodge. This plan reflects the king’s desire to provide for Camilla’s well-being after his passing. Prince Andrew’s desire to keep Royal Lodge as an inheritance for his daughters, Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie, has added to the complex dynamics. The Duke of York and Sarah Ferguson were allowed to remain in Royal Lodge following the Duchess of York’s cancer diagnosis in 2023. Nevertheless, the king’s push to finalize the relocation underscores the ongoing tensions within the royal family.