The Duchy is a private estate that provides income, and funds the official and private activities of the Duke of Cornwall and his family. This place was established in 1337 by Edward III to support his son, Prince Edward, and is governed by specific charters and laws.
The estate’s management focuses on sustainability and community benefits, with the goal of preserving it for future generations. The current Duke of Cornwall, William, does not have access to the estate’s capital and pays income tax on the profits it generates each year.
Along with its historic significance, the Duchy offers luxury holiday cottages in period buildings across Cornwall, Wales, and the Isles of Scilly. Designed by Annabel, these interiors blend antique and modern styles, using recycled materials like glass bottles for light fixtures and old chests for coffee tables.
The estate emphasizes eco-friendliness, using green electricity and renewable energy heating systems. It also promotes sustainable tourism that supports local economies and communities.
William’s decision to remove Annabel from the Duchy’s payroll sparked mixed reactions online, with one user expressing approval, noting that her position had been due to family connections and supporting William’s decision.
Some netizens were unaware of Annabel’s role, with some expressing surprise at her presence on the payroll. Others questioned her involvement, noting she completed her contract and is now retiring. Another supported her removal, emphasizing she isn’t William’s “mother or aunt.”
Another commenter highlighted the generational difference, joking that it makes sense for William to prefer a different style than an 80-year-old’s, adding they wouldn’t hire their grandma’s interior designer either.
Meanwhile, William’s decision received mixed reactions, with some praising his wisdom, while others questioned his intentions, suggesting he might be showing his “true colour [sic].”
Another commenter downplayed Annabel’s importance in the royal family, noting she was past retirement age and that her removal wasn’t surprising, blaming the media for creating drama.
Despite being removed from the Duchy’s payroll, Annabel remains active in royal projects, including recent renovations at Balmoral. However, her company, Annabel Elliot Limited, has reportedly faced financial challenges, with a noted decline in assets over recent years.
Annabel’s company is based at her country house in Stourpaine, Dorset. This place was where she and her late husband, Simon, reportedly allowed Charles and Camilla to “hold secret meetings” while Charles was still married to the late Princess Diana.
Fast forward to recent developments, Camilla’s relationship with the royal family remains a topic of controversy. It was reported in March 2024 that Harry distrusts the growing bond between William and the Queen.
Royal expert and author Tom Quinn said, “He [Harry] really distrusts that William actually gets on rather well now with Camilla – Harry will see this as a betrayal.”
Tom also mentioned that Harry was shocked when William realized that Camilla, whom they once viewed as a “monster” when they were kids, was actually a “nice woman.”
He added, “She is exceptionally good at listening with a sympathetic ear and William has definitely warmed to that.”
Tom further explained that Harry views William’s improved relationship with Camilla as another instance of William failing to remain loyal to the family. “For Harry things have never moved on really since his mother died,” Tom added.
Annabel’s dismissal, Harry’s distrust of his brother, and Prince William’s opposition to Meghan wearing Diana’s jewelry all fuel the royal drama and deepen the rift between the siblings.
