The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh have caused outrage by allegedly earning around £130,000 annually from subletting converted stables on their £30 million estate, where they pay minimal rent. Situated at Bagshot Park in Surrey, the stables adjacent to their 120-room main residence are reportedly being leased out by Prince Edward and Sophie, diverting profits away from taxpayers.

According to a rental brochure reviewed by Mirror, the refurbished stables were advertised as office space for £10,834 per month or £130,008 per year. Despite currently lacking tenants, the stables were temporarily withdrawn from the market in December amidst inquiries from the Public Accounts Committee regarding royal property financing.

Plans are in place to relist the stables for rent this summer following refurbishment. Critics argue that Prince Edward enjoys favorable terms at Bagshot Park, having originally leased the Crown Estate property in 1998 for £50,000 annually, with subsequent increases to £90,000 yearly after renovation expenses.

Recent reports suggest that Edward’s lease was extended in 2007 under an agreement with Eclipse Nominees Limited, involving an initial payment of £5 million for a 150-year lease, now subject to a nominal rent. This payment structure aligns with industry norms for long-leasehold properties with substantial capital investments.

Norman Baker, former Lib Dem Home Affairs minister, criticized the situation, emphasizing that any revenue from the stables should benefit the Crown Estate, whose profits contribute to public funds. Baker highlighted the disparity between the royal couple’s income from subletting and their minimal rent for Bagshot Park.

Royal expert Margaret Holder noted that the arrangement, while legal, allows the Duke and Duchess to profit from additional sources due to their existing lease agreements. Holder suggested a thorough review of all lease deals to ensure transparency and fairness.

The stables’ last tenant reportedly vacated in October 2025, with the property currently unoccupied and off the market. The office block, previously rented by pharmaceutical firms, offers modern amenities and convenient access within the estate.

In contrast to previous scrutiny over royal property deals, the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh are active working royals, with profits from their leased properties ultimately benefiting public expenditure through the Crown Estate’s revenue allocation to the Treasury.