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Prince Andrew’s £0 Rent: Royal Lodge’s Peppercorn Lease Exposed
Prince Andrew, the Duke of York, has not paid rent for his 30-room Windsor mansion, the Royal Lodge, in over two decades—despite a lease requiring just “one peppercorn” per year. The revelation has intensified scrutiny of royal finances, especially as the Duke no longer performs public duties.
Royal Lodge: A Windsor Estate with a £1 Rent Clause
The Royal Lodge, a historic 17th-century property in Windsor Great Park, has been Prince Andrew’s home since 2004. He secured a 75-year lease in 2003 from the Crown Estate, the monarchy’s property manager. The agreement includes a symbolic peppercorn rent—a legal tradition where a negligible payment (like a single peppercorn) validates a contract.
While peppercorn leases are common for heritage sites, critics argue this arrangement highlights royal privilege, particularly as taxpayers fund security and maintenance for the estate.
Why Does Prince Andrew Pay Just One Peppercorn?
Peppercorn rents date back to medieval England, often used in ceremonial or long-term leases. In modern times, they appear in heritage property deals or charitable trusts. However, Prince Andrew’s case has drawn backlash due to:
- His £12 million settlement in the Virginia Giuffre lawsuit (reportedly funded by the late Queen).
- Ongoing security costs for Royal Lodge, estimated in the millions.
- King Charles III’s push for a “slimmed-down monarchy”, urging Andrew to move to Frogmore Cottage.
Public Outcry Over Royal Finances
Anti-monarchy groups like Republic argue the lease reflects unfair privilege.
“At a time when Brits face soaring rents, the royals enjoy perks beyond reach,” said CEO Graham Smith.
Buckingham Palace has not commented, calling it a private Crown Estate matter.
Will Prince Andrew Lose Royal Lodge?
King Charles is reportedly pressuring Andrew to downsize, but the Duke has refused, having invested heavily in renovations. The Crown Estate could theoretically revoke the lease—but such a move would be unprecedented.
For now, Prince Andrew remains at Royal Lodge, his annual rent: one peppercorn.
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