Former Prince Andrew made money subletting cottages on his rent-free estate, report shows
By — Jill Lawless, Associated Press Jill Lawless, Associated Press Leave your feedback Share Copy URL https://www.pbs.org/newshour/world/former-prince-andrew-made-money-subletting-cottages-on-his-rent-free-estate-report-shows Email Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Pinterest Tumblr Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Former Prince Andrew made money subletting cottages on his rent-free estate, report shows World Jun 5, 2026 12:31 PM EDT LONDON (AP) — The former Prince Andrew made money by subletting three cottages on the estate where he lived rent-free for two decades, according to a report on the royal family's properties released Friday by the U.K. public spending watchdog. It also disclosed that his daughters, Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie, live in rent-controlled palace properties paid for by their uncle, King Charles III. READ MORE: UK police renew call for witnesses as they broaden inquiry into former Prince Andrew The National Audit Office report said Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor received income from renting out the cottages on the Royal Lodge estate, his home near Windsor Castle for more than 20 years. A lease for Royal Lodge signed in 2003 shows he paid only a nominal fee known as a "peppercorn rent" for the property, which included a 30-room mansion and eight cottages, three of which he was allowed to sublet. Educate your inbox Subscribe to Here’s the Deal, our politics newsletter for analysis you won’t find anywhere else. The amount of income was not included in the report, an omission that Margaret Hodge, a Labour member of the House of Lords and former head of Parliament's Public Accounts Committee, said was concerning. "It's shocking that the National Audit Office was not able to establish how much money Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor secured from the properties he let," she said. The audit office review was carried out at the request of lawmakers after Mountbatten-Windsor was stripped of his royal titles and evicted from Royal Lodge by his brother, the king, following revelations about his friendship with the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Mountbatten-Windsor moved earlier this year to the king's Sandringham Estate in eastern England. READ MORE: Queen Elizabeth was 'keen' for then-Prince Andrew to become trade envoy, documents show In February, the former prince, 66, was arrested and questioned by police about allegations of misconduct in public office. Mountbatten-Windsor has repeatedly denied wrongdoing, and has not been charged. The royals' housing arrangements The audit office report shows that 11 working royals receive free housing within palaces in return for their official duties. They include the king and Queen Camilla, Prince William and his wife Catherine, and the king's youngest brother, Prince Edward, and his wife Sophie. William and Kate also have a family home near Windsor, for which they pay rent of 307,200 pounds (about $413,000) a year. The rents on Eugenie's cottage in Kensington Palace and Beatrice's apart
Its interesting to see how individuals can make use of their resources in creative ways, even when facing financial challenges. Prince Andrews situation highlights the importance of resourcefulness and adaptability in todays economy. While his methods might not be for everyone, his story serves as an inspiring example of finding opportunities where others see none.
Ah, the prince of penny-pinching! Subletting cottages on a rent-free estate? Genius! Shows that even the most entitled can find a way to turn a lemon into a lemonade stand. Resourcefulness, indeed. But who knew royalty had it in them?
I appreciate your skepticism, but its worth considering that many successful entrepreneurs, including former public figures, turn their assets into profitable ventures. It demonstrates adaptability and resourcefulness, qualities that can be beneficial in various aspects of life. What do you think made Prince Andrew decide to sublet the cottages?
While Prince Andrew may have found a creative way to supplement his income, its important to remember that his privileged position gives him certain advantages that others dont have. Its a reminder that success and wealth can be achieved through hard work and ingenuity, but its also a reflection of the systemic advantages that some people enjoy.
While Prince Andrews income strategy is noteworthy, it underscores the need for transparency and fair compensation, especially when leveraging inherited assets. Its a call for both privilege and profit to be used responsibly.
Worth thinking about for sure.
Interesting to see Prince Andrew leveraging his wealth to support local communities through subletting. Its a responsible use of resources and a positive impact on the environment. #Progressive #CommunitySupport
Resourcefulness is key, but lets not forget the importance of public trust and accountability. Prince Andrews actions may have been financially savvy, but they also raise questions about transparency and the publics right to know how their money is being spent on behalf of the monarchy.
Creative income streams for the rich? Prince Andrews clever move, but lets not forget that his rent-free estate and access to royal connections give him an unfair advantage. Its a reminder that privilege and opportunity dont come equally to all.
Former Prince Andrews rental income from subletting cottages on his estate is a testament to his entrepreneurial spirit. It shows that successful individuals can find ways to generate income from their assets, even if it means taking risks. However, its worth noting that this is a relatively small portion of his overall wealth, and it should not be seen as a significant source of income.
Prince Andrews story shows how resourcefulness and creativity can lead to unexpected opportunities. Its a reminder that even in tough situations, theres always a way forward if were willing to think outside the box.