King Charles is said to be feeling 'sad' this festive season after his niece, Princess Beatrice, decided to break a long-standing royal tradition by spending Christmas abroad.
A Festive Dilemma Avoided
Faced with a difficult choice between joining her disgraced parents, Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson, or accepting the official invitation to Sandringham, Princess Beatrice has chosen a third path. She will be embarking on a skiing holiday overseas with her husband, Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi, and their children, effectively sidestepping the familial tension.
This decision, however, comes at the cost of an "unwritten rule" established by the late Queen Elizabeth II, who strongly preferred the family to gather together at the Norfolk estate for Christmas. Grant Harrold, a former butler to King Charles, provided exclusive insight into the monarch's likely reaction.
Understanding and Support from The King
"King Charles will definitely be sad that Beatrice will miss the celebrations," Harrold stated. "He's extremely fond of his niece and I'm sure he would have wanted to spend time with her over the holidays after such a difficult time."
Harrold emphasised that the King is well aware of the strain Beatrice has faced due to the scandals surrounding her father, despite her having no involvement. "However he will support her decision, and will just want her to do what's best for her," he added.
The former royal staffer noted a clear shift in protocol since Charles ascended the throne. "It was almost an unwritten rule that everyone had to be there. But this shows how it's a very different set up now Charles is King, it's not as rigid as it once was."
A Diminished Sandringham Gathering
This year's Christmas at Sandringham is set to be a notably smaller affair. Prince Andrew, who is expected to spend his final festive season at Royal Lodge before he and Sarah Ferguson vacate the property by the end of October 2026, has not received an invitation.
Furthermore, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, will remain in California. This means the number of royals participating in the traditional gift exchange on Christmas Day will be significantly reduced.
"The Royal Family will definitely miss Beatrice and her family this year," Harrold commented. "They're a really big part of the family. Beatrice also has a very good sense of humour, so she would have brought a lot to the Christmas lunch table."
He also mentioned the closeness between Beatrice and the Prince and Princess of Wales, noting that William and Kate will miss her presence. Despite the absence, Harrold believes communication will continue. "I'm sure she'll have a wonderful time. I'm sure they will still send messages or do voice calls on the day... I'm sure they will still speak to wish each other a happy Christmas on the big day."
The decision underscores the evolving nature of modern royal life, where personal family needs are increasingly balanced with historic tradition, even at Christmas.
