Sarah Ferguson is preparing to return to Britain after spending seven months overseas, with the former Duchess of York expected to move into a new home in the coming days.
The 66-year-old has reportedly secured a six-bedroom rental property in England’s Home Counties.
People Magazine reported the gated property costs about $A20,500 a month and includes three bathrooms and a separate granny flat.
Preparations are understood to be under way at the property ahead of Ferguson’s arrival.
The move comes after Ferguson spent much of the year outside Britain following her departure from Royal Lodge in Windsor.
She and her former husband Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor were forced to leave the royal residence in February.
Ferguson has since spent time overseas, including at a luxury resort in Austria and a chalet in the Swiss ski town of Verbier.
The chalet belonged to her former partner and benefactor Paddy McNally, who died last month.
Removal vans were reportedly seen at Andrew’s Sandringham home this week as some of Ferguson’s belongings were collected.
Her return to Britain also follows renewed scrutiny over her past relationship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
Ferguson had previously maintained contact with Epstein despite his conviction for sex offences.
Last year, correspondence emerged in which she described him as a “supreme friend”.
Further details about their relationship later emerged in documents contained in the Epstein files.
The renewed scrutiny placed fresh focus on Ferguson’s association with the disgraced financier and her past dealings with him.
Ferguson has not been accused of any wrongdoing.
She has remained largely out of the British public spotlight while spending time abroad.
Her move back now marks a return to the country where she has spent most of her life.
For Ferguson, the new property is expected to provide a base as she seeks to rebuild her life following months overseas.
The move is expected to take place within days.
It also comes as her family enters a new chapter.
Princess Eugenie, Ferguson’s younger daughter, welcomed a daughter named Adelaide with her husband Jack Brooksbank several weeks ago.
Ferguson’s return comes only days after Prince Harry and Duchess Meghan also travelled back to Britain with their children.
The Sussexes have spent the past six years living in the United States after stepping back from royal duties.
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