Future King takes streamlined, private approach to royal household operations
Prince William and Catherine have quietly ended a long-standing tradition by opting not to disclose specific details about their household staff at Adelaide Cottage, marking a notable shift from the practices followed by King Charles.
According to the annual financial report covering April 2024 to March 2025, the couple chose not to itemise staff roles such as chefs, butlers, and gardeners. Instead, the report simply noted that 68 people are currently employed under William’s household — a modest increase from last year, but without the usual breakdown in job categories.
The decision contrasts sharply with Charles’s more transparent approach when he held the role of Prince of Wales, as he regularly provided detailed information on royal staffing and financial matters.
The Prince of Wales also declined to publish his personal tax contribution, though it was confirmed he pays the highest rate of income tax.
The couple’s residence, Adelaide Cottage, has naturally influenced their pared-down household. With its smaller size and historic charm, the Windsor property does not accommodate large numbers of live-in staff. The cottage, refurbished in 2015, features unique period details, including golden dolphins and ropework from a 19th-century royal yacht.
While the report confirmed an overseas royal tour costing over £400,000, it offered less insight into day-to-day operations than in previous years.
William and Catherine, known for their hands-on approach to parenting, are said to retain a limited team including housekeepers and nannies, but prefer a more modern, less formal lifestyle — signalling a quieter evolution in royal family life.
