King Charles III and Queen Camilla are not expected to reside at Buckingham Palace following the completion of its extensive renovations, opting instead to continue living at their current residence, Clarence House. The decision comes despite nearly $500,000 invested in upgrades to the royal headquarters, which were scheduled to be finished in March 2027.
According to Privy Purse James Chalmers, the royal couple will maintain access to private rooms within Buckingham Palace for use during the working day and potentially as residential accommodation in the future. However, their primary residence will remain Clarence House.
Buckingham Palace, which receives an estimated 700,000 visitors annually, is slated to increase public access. A spokesperson for the palace stated the intention is to "widen public access precisely to maximize the national benefit of a publicly funded building." The palace will continue to function as a "working home" and will host events such as receptions, garden parties, and meetings with new ambassadors. "The Palace will continue in every traditional way to be the beating heart of the Monarchy, just not its resting head," a representative explained, adding it will be "a buzzing hive of activity in every other way."
The tradition of monarchs residing at Buckingham Palace dates back to 1837 with Queen Victoria. Notable former residents include King Edward VII, King George V, King Edward VIII, King George VI, and Queen Elizabeth II.
Furthermore, Prince William and his wife, Princess Kate Middleton, reportedly have no plans to move into Buckingham Palace once he ascends to the throne. The family is expected to continue living at their Windsor home, Forest Lodge.
King Charles is currently undergoing cancer treatment. He announced his diagnosis in February, following surgery for a benign prostate enlargement. In December, he shared that his cancer treatment schedule was being reduced and that he had responded "exceptionally well to treatment."