Prince Andrew has reportedly been barred from horse riding around King Charles III’s Sandringham estate, amid concerns from royal aides that public appearances could damage the monarchy’s image while he remains under police investigation.
Andrew, 66, was arrested last Thursday on suspicion of misconduct in public office following allegations that he leaked confidential information to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein during his tenure as the UK’s trade envoy. He was released under investigation after spending 11 hours in custody. Police have since confirmed that searches at his former Windsor residence, Royal Lodge, have been concluded.
Prior to relocating to Sandringham three weeks ago, Andrew was frequently seen riding near Royal Lodge. However, sources claim recent images of him smiling and waving at members of the public — both on horseback and while driving near Windsor — were viewed internally as inappropriate given the seriousness of the allegations. Insiders reportedly described the appearances as “a bad look,” particularly amid renewed scrutiny of his past associations and personal conduct.
He has now been instructed to refrain from riding around Wood Farm, his current residence on the Sandringham estate, where photographers have gathered since his arrest. A source told The Sun that the restriction followed concerns about public perception, noting that horse riding had been one of his few regular pastimes.
The development comes as Members of Parliament backed a motion by the Liberal Democrats calling for the release of documents relating to Andrew’s 2001 appointment as UK trade envoy. Trade minister Chris Bryant criticised the former royal’s conduct, accusing him of self-promotion and blurring public and private interests. Ministers indicated they would not oppose greater transparency, though some documents may remain confidential due to the ongoing investigation.
Last year, Andrew was stripped of his “Prince” styling and the Duke of York title after emails surfaced raising questions about when he severed ties with Epstein.
While Andrew has denied wrongdoing in relation to his association with Epstein, he has not directly addressed the latest allegations.