Former Prince Andrew earns income by subletting a rent-free mansion as a vacation rental

London – June 5, 2026: The latest report from the National Audit Office (NAO) of the United Kingdom has revealed that former Prince Andrew (Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor), despite residing rent-free, sublet three holiday cottages on the Royal Lodge estate to generate income. This raises serious questions about the propriety and transparency of the financial arrangements within the British royal family.

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor entered into a 75-year lease agreement for the Royal Lodge in 2003 and was permitted to reside in the mansion for the symbolic yearly rent of one grain of peppercorn. Under this contract, he paid a £1 million upfront fee and was obligated to carry out renovation works costing about £7.5 million. Nevertheless, he continued to live in the 30-room mansion for over 20 years without paying rent.

The NAO report further revealed that of the eight holiday cottages on the estate, three were sublet by the former prince. The income from these was paid directly to Andrew, while no rent was paid for the main building. The report did not specify the exact amount of rental income, prompting criticism from politicians such as Member of Parliament Margaret Hodge. She is demanding detailed disclosures to ensure transparency of the transactions.

Furthermore, the report mentions the residency status of Andrew’s daughters, Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie. Both live in royal residences in London, and their rent is paid from the private funds of King Charles III, their uncle. This arrangement has sparked debate regarding the use of public funds for family members who do not perform official royal duties.

These revelations come at a time when pressure is mounting on the British royal family to review their financial management and ensure transparency. The general public and political leaders are calling for a thorough investigation into the financial arrangements within the royal household, aiming to guarantee responsible and fair use of public funds.

Overall, the findings of the NAO report cast a critical light on the financial practices of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and his family. Calls for greater transparency and accountability concerning the use of royal residences and related financial transactions are expected to intensify in the coming months.

Both the government and the royal family are currently facing the challenge of regaining public trust. Achieving this requires clear, transparent information on financial contracts and adjustments where necessary, meeting modern standards of accountability.

In the long term, these developments could alter the public image of the British royal family and rekindle debates over the funding and management of royal residences.