As Buckingham Palace undergoes a historic £369 million renovation, sources close to the royal household suggest that King Charles III is unlikely to return to the iconic residence—despite its central role in the monarchy’s public life.
Instead, the monarch and Queen Camilla are expected to remain at Clarence House, their long-standing London home, even after the palace’s refurbishment is completed in 2027.
Why the Palace Might Remain Empty
Although Buckingham Palace has served as the symbolic heart of the British monarchy for generations, insiders report that the King sees it differently.
According to royal correspondent Camilla Tominey, one quiet concession to both the King’s health and age is that the move to the palace now seems unlikely.
“It appears unlikely he will ever move from Clarence House to Buckingham Palace after the restoration is completed,” Tominey wrote in The Telegraph. “Although it will remain the household’s office for the rest of his reign.”
A friend of the King once told The Times:
“He’s not fond of ‘the big house.’ He doesn’t see it as suitable for modern royal life.”
A More Personal and Practical Home
Clarence House has provided a sense of familiarity and comfort to both King Charles and Queen Camilla. Royal aides have described them as “very comfortable” in their current residence, with no intention of relocating.
One palace insider reportedly emphasized that Queen Camilla, in particular, has no desire to move into Buckingham Palace.
“Camilla doesn’t want to live at Buckingham Palace,” the source said.
This sentiment appears to align with a broader shift in royal attitudes—Prince William is also said to believe the palace isn’t well suited for 21st-century living.
A Modern Approach to Tradition
While Buckingham Palace will continue to serve official functions—such as hosting receptions and state events—much of that will now take place at Windsor Castle during the renovation period.
In a symbolic touch, King Charles has temporarily moved his office to the very room where he was born: the Orleans Room in the Garden Wing. Renovations on his private suite in the north wing are ongoing, with the King reportedly covering the cost of décor upgrades himself.
“He is mindful that the public purse should not pay for personal touches,” a source told The Times.
So, Where Will King Charles Live?
For now—and likely for the rest of his reign—Clarence House will remain the King’s primary residence in London. Located just steps from Buckingham Palace, it offers a quieter, more manageable environment for the monarch and his wife.
As the monarchy evolves to reflect a more modern image, it seems the grandeur of the palace may no longer fit the personal preferences of its leading figures.
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