King Charles III will break with tradition this Christmas by delivering his annual festive broadcast from the historic Westminster Abbey, not a royal residence. The pre-recorded message will be broadcast to the nation on television and radio at 3pm on Christmas Day.
A Historic Setting for a Personal Message
This marks the King's fourth Christmas message since ascending the throne and only the second time it has been staged away from a royal home. The filming took place within the Abbey's Lady Chapel, a late medieval construction commissioned by Henry VII which serves as the burial place for 15 kings and queens.
The backdrop features repurposed Christmas trees from the Princess of Wales' carol concert, held earlier in December. Above, the chapel's spectacular fan-vaulted ceiling provides a majestic setting, with the colourful banners of the Order of the Bath's knights hanging out of shot.
The Significance of Pilgrimage
The King selected the theme of pilgrimage for his 2025 address, a concept deeply connected to Westminster Abbey's history. The Abbey is the site of the tomb of Edward the Confessor, the English king who reigned for 24 years until his death in 1066 and was later canonised in 1161. For centuries, his shrine has been a major destination for pilgrims.
It is understood that the King personally requested a filming location away from a traditional royal setting. Suggestions were provided by both the BBC, which produced the broadcast this year, and the royal household.
A Rare Unscripted Royal Moment
The Christmas broadcast is one of the rare constitutional occasions where the monarch can express personal views without government advice. Written by the King himself, the message typically incorporates a strong religious element, reflects on current issues, and often draws upon his own experiences.
This follows the precedent set in 2024, when his message was recorded at Fitzrovia Chapel in central London. That location, where Diana, Princess of Wales, opened London's first dedicated Aids ward, saw a significant surge in visitor numbers following the broadcast.
The decision to speak from Westminster Abbey continues King Charles's pattern of using the Christmas message to highlight locations and causes of personal and national significance, offering the public a unique glimpse into his perspectives as the festive season begins.
