Royal Lodge is an early nineteenth century, Grade II-listed Georgian mansion set within Windsor Great Park. It has more recently come under public fascination and scrutiny due to its connections with Prince Andrew. Facing the sandy beach at the end of the street, the three-storey property with two-storey wings is stunning, with 30 rooms, seven of them bedrooms. The neoclassical beauty of the structure dazzles visitors with its grand hall. The enormous drawing room, with its detailed mouldings, soaring ceilings, and four tall, arched windows is especially stunning.
The estate features a marvelous Victorian conservatory and a magnificent saloon. The saloon is a staggering 15 metre x 9 metre (48′ x 30′) space! Royal Lodge is set within 40 hectares (98 acres) of formal grounds, providing a breathtaking backdrop. This stunning backdrop has mesmerised supporters and opponents of royalty.
Once built as a simple country farmhouse in 1662, Royal Lodge saw many changes over its life. From 1840, it was used as grace-and-favour accommodation for senior members of the royal household. George, Prince of Wales—who would later become George IV—used Royal Lodge as a base for his hunting from 1812.
In 1830, King William IV commissioned the wholesale demolition and reconstruction of the entire structure, retaining only the conservatory. The lodge later became home to George VI and Queen Elizabeth—the queen mother—when they were the Duke and Duchess of York in 1931. After King George VI died in 1952, the queen mother used to enjoy spending most weekends at Royal Lodge. She maintained this schedule until her passing on March 30, 2002.
Following her death, Prince Andrew eventually became the heir to Royal Lodge. Under the terms of the lease agreement, he has been required to pay merely “a peppercorn” in rent—if demanded—since taking residence. This situation has been the subject of criticism and discussion about royal privilege and financial accountability.
“a peppercorn” – The Guardian
The lease guarantees Prince Andrew and his family the right to live in Royal Lodge until 2078. This year-long partnership quickly opened everyone’s ears to civic dialogue. Many began to wonder whether such privileges were warranted considering the current uproars surrounding the prince.
The press has coined the region surrounding the Royal Lodge the “South York.” This lays down a thick patina of mystery over the remarkable storied history of the property.
Royal Lodge’s grandeur and historical significance stand in stark contrast to the controversies that have surfaced regarding Prince Andrew’s public image. As scrutiny continues to grow over his actions and associations, the mansion serves as both a symbol of royal heritage and a focal point for discussions about accountability within the monarchy.
Now that these outrageous handouts are coming to an end, what does this mean for Royal Lodge? Should Prince Andrew be allowed to live there, rent-free, in perpetuity? Or will the weight of public opinion push the royal family to rethink how their properties are used, preserved and interpreted?