Royal Family Members Known for Frugality Amidst Public Scrutiny
While Pippa Middleton faces criticism for alleged stingy tipping, several members of the Royal Family are noted for their long-standing habits of thrift and cost-saving.
Pippa Middleton and her husband have reportedly become unpopular with their West Berkshire neighbors, with local gossip including allegations of 'stingy tipping.' This comes after the couple barred the public from using a footpath that runs through their country estate.
While Middleton's alleged frugality has drawn local criticism, other members of the Royal Family have also been recognized for their prudent financial habits. These include Queen Elizabeth II, Princess Anne, King Charles, and Prince William.
Queen Elizabeth II's Frugality
Queen Elizabeth II was known for her conservative spending. Palace insiders noted her insistence on cutting costs, such as the use of a budget electric heater in the Audience Room at Buckingham Palace and a ban on light bulbs exceeding 40 watts. Staff were reportedly instructed to turn off lights when not in use. Old newspapers were shredded for horse bedding, and items like string from parcels were saved for reuse. Frayed sheets and dusters were mended. According to author Kate Williams, the Queen saved and smoothed out wrapping paper and ribbons after Christmas. Former royal chef Darren McGrady recalled an instance where a lemon served as a garnish was sent back to the kitchen for reuse. Water displacement devices, known as 'hippos,' were placed in toilet cisterns to conserve water, and wallpaper dating back over a century was used to patch damage at Balmoral.
Princess Anne's Thrifty Approach
Princess Anne has earned a reputation as the 'Queen of Recycling' for her consistent use of re-worn wardrobe pieces. She has been observed wearing coats, dresses, hats, and handbags for decades. She once remarked that 'a good suit goes on forever' and that 'the economy was bred into me.' In 2012, she reportedly declined a more expensive sea-view hotel room to save £40. Princess Anne is known for running an unpretentious household and has jokingly stated that a Ryvita cracker is a sufficient starter for guests. For her 1992 wedding, she wore the same jacket and skirt that she had previously worn to Royal Ascot.
The Prince and Princess of Wales' Cost-Saving Measures
Kate and Prince William have adopted cost-saving measures, including more staycations and the use of public transport. Their home reportedly features IKEA furniture, and they have used cushions from OKA, which were priced between £30-£60. The couple prepares their own meals, with Kate reportedly enjoying roast chicken. They are known to frequent local pubs for meals, such as the Dabbling Duck in Norfolk where main courses cost around £20. Prince George wore an outfit similar to one worn by his father in 1984 for his balcony debut.
However, Prince William has faced scrutiny regarding his tax contributions. In May, he disclosed that he paid £7.76 million in taxes for 2024/25 and £8.34 million for 2023-24. A poll indicated that 54% of people desired greater transparency regarding his income and spending.
King Charles's Zero-Waste Policy and Tax Transparency
King Charles is also known for his frugality, adhering to a zero-waste dining rule where leftovers are saved or repurposed. His initiative to slim down the monarchy is seen by some as a cost-saving measure. This year, he became the first British monarch to voluntarily publish his personal tax bill. Buckingham Palace stated he paid over £12.9 million in taxes for 2024/25 and £11.7 million the previous year. He personally requested the release of his income and capital gains information to enhance clarity. Concerns have been raised about the monarchy's annual cost and the number of royal residences.
