The United Kingdom is once again embroiled in debates over the financial privileges of the royal family, with Prince Edward now at the center of attention. The public is questioning the fairness of the rent paid by King Charles III’s younger brother for living in a grand 120-room mansion. As it turns out, the amount in question is a so-called “peppercorn” rent—a symbolic sum that starkly contrasts with the current market values of real estate.
Prince Edward and his wife Sophie have been leasing their Surrey estate, spanning more than 50 acres, from the Crown for a quarter of a century. In 2007, they renewed the lease for another 150 years, paying £5 million for the extension. Broken down annually, the cost of living in the vast house is minimal—with no additional requirements stipulated in the contract, making the deal all the more advantageous for a member of the royal family.
This situation strongly echoes the story of Prince Andrew, who also benefited from similar concessions when leasing Royal Lodge. He made an upfront payment of £8.5 million, after which he continued to pay a nominal rent. Furthermore, his contract allowed him to transfer residency rights to his former wife Sarah Ferguson or their daughters. However, following a series of scandals, Andrew has received official notice requiring him to vacate the residence by the end of October 2025.
Edward’s rental agreement has sparked particular public interest, as he is only 15th in line to the throne. Many Britons find it hard to understand why a member of the royal family so far from succession needs such an enormous mansion, which could otherwise be rented out at market rates to generate income for the treasury. The Windsors’ finances have traditionally been shrouded in secrecy, but such revelations are increasingly drawing public ire.
One former minister, Norman Baker, described the situation as ‘indecent.’ He noted that it is outrageous not only because Edward and Sophie were given a 120-room mansion, but also because they pay a symbolic rent that is less than what a couple renting a tiny flat on the outskirts would pay.
Amid these debates, Prince Edward’s role in the monarchy has noticeably grown. On his 59th birthday in March 2023, he received from the King the title Duke of Edinburgh, previously held by their father, Prince Philip. This appointment, along with including Edward and his sister Princess Anne among the ‘counsellors of state’—who can act on behalf of the monarch—is seen as a strengthening of his position within the ‘firm,’ especially following the disgrace of Prince Andrew.
Incidentally, Prince Edward, Duke of Edinburgh, is the youngest child of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip. He was born on March 10, 1964. Unlike his older brothers, he did not pursue a military career, instead focusing on work in theater and television before becoming a full-time working member of the royal family in 2002. Together with his wife Sophie, they are raising two children — Lady Louise and James, Earl of Wessex. The family is known for their discretion and dedicated service to royal duties.
