King Charles and Queen Camilla have decided to remain at Clarence House permanently, even after the completion of Buckingham Palace's £369 million refurbishment, marking a significant break with royal tradition. While Buckingham Palace will continue to serve as the monarchy's ceremonial and administrative headquarters, the King has opted to keep Clarence House as his private London residence.
Royal Expert Explains the Decision
Royal biographer Hugo Vickers believes the explanation is straightforward. Writing in The Times, Mr Vickers argued that Clarence House — located on The Mall next to St James's Palace — feels more like a home. He described it as "the nearest thing to a country house in the capital," contrasting it with Buckingham Palace, which he called "soulless" and more akin to "a large Edwardian hotel" than a place for everyday family life.
Charles's Long History with Clarence House
Charles has lived at Clarence House since 2003, after the death of the Queen Mother, who had made it her home for nearly 50 years. Camilla officially joined him there following their marriage in 2005. According to Mr Vickers, the King has deliberately preserved much of his grandmother's influence, retaining many of her paintings, furnishings, and personal touches while commissioning only modest updates from the late interior designer Robert Kime.
Location and Practicality
The royal expert said he "never thought for one moment" that Charles would leave Clarence House, particularly given its location just a short drive from Buckingham Palace. This allows the King to continue living in familiar surroundings while using Buckingham Palace for its primary purpose as the monarchy's ceremonial headquarters.
Historical Precedent
Mr Vickers also highlighted that Charles is not the first monarch to favour Clarence House. After the death of King George VI in 1952, the future Queen Elizabeth II had hoped to remain at Clarence House, where she had lived with Prince Philip after their marriage. However, then-Prime Minister Sir Winston Churchill insisted she move into Buckingham Palace. That move made Clarence House the home of the Queen Mother and Princess Margaret, with the Queen Mother remaining there until shortly before her death in 2002.
Future Plans for Buckingham Palace
Today, Mr Vickers believes Charles's decision makes "perfect sense." Buckingham Palace will continue to host state banquets, investitures, garden parties, and major royal occasions, while Clarence House provides the King and Queen with a more private base in central London. "The King has been keen to open more rooms in royal residences to public view. It is possible to visit the balcony room at Buckingham Palace. He may well now give access to more private rooms at the Palace," Mr Vickers wrote. "Staying on at Clarence House has many advantages and makes perfect sense."
