Prince Andrew is once again under public scrutiny as experts weigh in on the stark contrast between his costly lifestyle and that of Prince William and Kate Middleton. A property expert has claimed that the Duke of York’s residence, Royal Lodge, is “significantly more expensive” to maintain than the future King and Queen’s relatively modest Adelaide Cottage.
According to a report from GB News, property expert Robin Edwards highlighted the growing financial concerns surrounding Prince Andrew’s continued occupation of Royal Lodge. The estate, located in Windsor Great Park, has reportedly become a point of contention within the royal family due to its mounting costs.
“Royal Lodge does not fall within the security cordon of Windsor Castle and therefore the security bill for it is significantly more expensive,” Edwards explained. This added expense, paired with the upkeep of the sprawling estate, has prompted King Charles to ask Prince Andrew to vacate the property. However, Andrew has allegedly refused to comply, according to The Daily Beast.
Royal Lodge boasts a substantial footprint. As Edwards described, “As well as the 30-room main house, the estate includes a gardener’s cottage, the chapel lodge, six lodge cottages and police security accommodation, in addition to 21 acres of gardens.” In contrast, Adelaide Cottage, where the Prince and Princess of Wales reside, is far more modest and cost-efficient.
This debate over property costs is further fueled by Prince Andrew’s damaged public image. His ties to various controversies have already made him a divisive figure within the royal family. Royal expert Hilary Fordwich told Fox News Digital, “Andrew’s future within the royal family is beyond bleak, since Prince William is firmly opposed to any public rehabilitation with no foreseeable path back.”
Fordwich added, “Once king, no doubt, Prince William will ensure Andrew is completely excluded from royal life, as well as all public appearances.” With public and royal sentiment increasingly shifting against him, Prince Andrew’s refusal to leave Royal Lodge may deepen tensions within the monarchy. The growing contrast between his lavish residence and William and Kate’s more practical lifestyle continues to highlight the broader issues of royal spending, responsibility, and legacy in the modern era.