LONDON — King Charles III will not take up residence at Buckingham Palace after the landmark's extensive refurbishment is completed next year, royal officials said this week, ending a tradition that has seen British monarchs use the palace as their principal London residence since the reign of Queen Victoria in 1837. Instead, the king and Queen Camilla will continue living at nearby Clarence House while Buckingham Palace remains the monarchy's primary ceremonial and administrative headquarters.
The decision was announced on Thursday during the annual presentation of the royal household's financial accounts. James Chalmers, the Keeper of the Privy Purse, said the move followed "careful consideration" and was intended to expand opportunities for public access to the historic building once its decade-long refurbishment is complete. He said the palace would continue to serve as the central venue for state occasions, official receptions and other constitutional duties.
"It is and will remain Monarchy HQ, the crown jewel of our national buildings," Chalmers said, according to royal officials. He added that the king and queen would retain access to private rooms within the palace for use during official engagements and for occasional overnight stays when required.
Buckingham Palace has undergone a major refurbishment programme designed to modernize ageing infrastructure, including electrical, plumbing and heating systems, while preserving the historic building for future generations. Officials have said the project is expected to conclude next year after approximately 10 years of work.
Royal officials said the decision means Buckingham Palace will remain the ceremonial and operational centre of the monarchy rather than the sovereign's primary home. They said greater public access to parts of the palace is expected to become possible after construction is completed, although details of future visitor arrangements remain subject to planning.
The announcement coincided with the release of the royal household's annual financial report, which also included new disclosures on the king's voluntary tax payments and public funding for official duties. Officials presented the measures as part of broader efforts to improve transparency regarding the monarchy's finances.
Royal officials said Buckingham Palace will continue to host state visits, investitures, diplomatic receptions and other official events after the refurbishment is completed, while King Charles and Queen Camilla are expected to remain based at Clarence House for the remainder of the king's reign.
