Royal biographer Hugo Vickers has shared the real reason King Charles and Queen Camilla prefer living at Clarence House over Buckingham Palace. According to Vickers, the key difference is that Clarence House is a home, while Buckingham Palace feels like a 'soulless' office. The couple's decision to stay at their private London residence even after the £369 million renovation of Buckingham Palace is complete marks a significant departure from tradition.
Clarence House: A Home, Not an Office
Vickers, who has visited Clarence House multiple times since Charles moved in during 2003, wrote in the Sunday Times: 'It is a home not an office.' He noted that the house retains the character of its former resident, the Queen Mother, who lived there from 1953 until her death in 2002. Charles has kept many of her photographs and added his own touches, making it a personal space. 'One of the finest rooms is the garden room with copies of her favourite biographies on the shelves,' Vickers added.
Buckingham Palace Compared to a 'Large Edwardian Hotel'
In contrast, Vickers described Buckingham Palace as a 'large Edwardian hotel' with 'a lot going on there which has nothing to do with home life.' He went so far as to call the palace 'soulless,' recalling a visit to Prince Philip's sister there, which he likened to visiting a 'deserted prep school.'
Practical Reasons for Staying
Vickers explained that the royal couple can use Buckingham Palace for state banquets, garden parties, and balcony appearances while enjoying a more casual atmosphere at Clarence House. He concluded that continuing to live there 'makes perfect sense,' especially since it is a short drive to Buckingham Palace.
Former Butler Confirms Longstanding Plan
Former royal butler Grant Harrold, who served Charles from 2004 to 2011, revealed that the King had shared his preference for Clarence House 'years ago.' Speaking to Reach PLC, Harrold said: 'The King actually told me about his plans to keep Clarence House as his main residence years ago, long before he became monarch. So the news isn't really a surprise, I think it's always been on the cards.'
Buckingham Palace Renovation and Future Plans
Buckingham Palace is undergoing a 10-year refurbishment program scheduled to finish next year. Meanwhile, it is understood that Prince William and Kate Middleton will remain at their 'forever home' in Windsor, Forest Lodge, when they become King and Queen.
