A property expert has outlined Prince Andrew’s potential Royal Lodge future as it emerged he is in advanced talks with King Charles’ senior aides about leaving his home. The disgraced royal paid £1million for the lease of the property in 2003 and was required to undertake £7.5m in refurbishment costs.
There is mounting pressure to remove him from the Grade II listed house in Berkshire’s Windsor Great Park, but what are his rights?
Andrew cannot be easily forced out of the property due to what has been called a “cast iron” lease with the Crown Estate.
Should he agree to give up the lease early, he could reportedly be entitled to compensation of around £557,595 upon termination, plus yearly payments until 2028.
Sharing his insight on the matter, Elliot Castle, CEO of We Buy Any Home, explained: “From a property law standpoint, Prince Andrew’s situation at the Royal Lodge appears to be governed by a long-term lease agreement rather than a traditional rental arrangement.
“If, as reported, the lease terms were set out in 2003 with a significant upfront payment and refurbishment investment, then he would retain security of tenure under those agreed conditions.”
King Charles’ brother’s lease agreement for the property states he has paid ‘one peppercorn (if demanded)’ in rent per year.
Explaining what this means, Elliot continued: “The reference to a ‘peppercorn rent’ is symbolic – a common feature in long leases where the tenant has paid a large premium up front.
“In simple terms, it means the occupier has effectively bought long-term rights to the property, even though the freehold remains with the Crown Estate.”
The property expert went on to discuss whether King Charles could influence the decision to remove Andrew.
He added: “Whether King Charles could alter or terminate that arrangement would depend entirely on the legal structure of the lease.
“Unless there’s a specific clause allowing for termination under certain conditions, it would be very difficult to remove a tenant without agreement or compensation, regardless of personal circumstances.”
Prince Andrew has continued to live at the property with his ex-wife, Sarah Ferguson, whom he divorced after 10 years of marriage in 1996.
According to Elliot, “her residency would likely be linked to Prince Andrew’s leasehold rights rather than any separate ownership.”
“If the lease continues, her position would generally remain unchanged,” he added.
As for the pair’s daughters, Princess Beatrice and Eugenie, the property expert said “it’s unlikely” that they will inherit any ownership stake in the Royal Lodge itself.
This is because the property is part of the Crown Estate, however, Elliot believes they could “still benefit indirectly through family trusts or other private arrangements, depending on how assets are structured”.
“Overall, while the situation attracts public attention due to its royal connections, the underlying property principles are quite standard — a long lease provides security, but ultimate ownership and control rest with the freeholder, in this case the Crown,” he added.
Questions about Andrew’s Royal Lodge future come after he relinquished his remaining royal titles and honours, including his Duke of York title, in the wake of fresh allegations about his association with Jeffrey Epstein. He has always denied any wrongdoing.
This morning The Daily Telegraph reported that King Charles is trying to persuade his brother to move out of the 30-bedroom mansion voluntarily. The main discussions are reportedly centred around where he will move to and how much he will be compensated.
Buckingham Palace has been contacted for comment.