Over the next three years, Buckingham Palace will remain closed for state visits as it undergoes one of the most extensive renovations ever seen at the historic site, according to reports from Kazinform and People magazine. Following the upcoming visit from the Emir of Qatar this December, all future state visits will shift to Windsor Castle until mid-2027. This decision is part of the palace's ambitious ten-year remodel, which is anticipated to cost around £369 million ($463 million).
Initially, the Royal Family had intended to shift their official activities to Buckingham Palace after the renovations. Reports now indicate plans for only partial occupancy of the palace, as the private quarters will be updated solely for “potential occupancy.” This marks a significant change of course for the royal establishment.
Historically, Buckingham Palace has served as the official London residence for British monarchs since 1837. King Charles III had even aimed to abandon Buckingham Palace as his primary residence when he became king, as reported by The Sunday Times back in 2017. The palace, which was once considered the headquarters of British monarchy, is now facing days of upheaval.
The current King and Queen, Charles and Camilla, have expressed comfort at their residence at Clarence House. Sources close to the royal couple suggest they feel at home there. “I know he is no fan of ‘the big house,’ as he calls the palace,” said one insider, highlighting the King’s preference for the cozier surroundings.
Following the December visit from the Emir, Windsor Castle will be the main venue for state functions, continuing until the renovation project at Buckingham Palace wraps up. This means all traditional royal receptions will be relocated to either St. James's Palace or Windsor Castle after 2025, as most of the palace’s rooms close for renovations.
One unique facet of this situation is how King Charles is managing his workspace amid the chaotic renovations. Charles has had to relocate his private office, which was situated within the north wing—a space previously occupied by his mother, the late Queen Elizabeth II. He has now set up camp within the luxurious Belgian Suite on the ground floor of the west-facing Garden Wing. This suite even includes the Orleans Room, where he was born back in 1948, lending historical significance to his duties as monarch.
“He is always aware of the significance of history, and the decision to be based in the Orleans Room won’t have been taken without half a smile,” revealed one of Charles's friends, pointing to the symbolic value of the space where he began his life now being used to carry out royal responsibilities.
While renovation costs will be covered by taxpayers, King Charles has opted to personally pay for the redecoration of his chamber. The decision to exclude taxpayer funds for personal alterations shows his commitment to fiscal responsibility, emphasizing the need for personal touches without burdening the public purse.
Despite the extensive renovations and changes, it appears unlikely Charles and Camilla will move back to Buckingham Palace even once the refurbishment is completed. Many royal insiders note how both feel comfortable at Clarence House, and even the heir to the throne, Prince William, agrees Buckingham Palace may not be suitable for modern family life.
“It is certainly true Camilla doesn’t want to live at Buckingham Palace,” said another source. This reflects not just personal preference but also broader views about the practicality of the grand palace as royal residence. It seems the transition is indicative of changing times within the monarchy.
On the flip side, there are major operational modifications as the royal family navigates this extensive upheaval. Reports confirm Buckingham Palace will temporarily pause construction during summer months to accommodate traditional opening of the State Rooms to the public along with annual themed exhibitions which run from July to September. These measures aim to keep public engagement alive even amid comprehensive renovations.
The move to Windsor Castle for state visits is not entirely new either; the last such visit happened back in 2014. The relocation of future visits signifies the shifting dynamics of the monarchy as it adapts to modern expectations, operational challenges, and financial concerns. The adjustments being made headline what many perceive as the gradual evolution of the royal institution.
Indeed, the late Queen Elizabeth utilized Buckingham Palace as her primary residence for nearly all her reign until relocating to Windsor Castle at the height of the COVID-19 lockdowns. Her previous insistence on residing at Buckingham Palace might give way to more contemporary views, particularly as her son and heir navigate the nuances of royal leadership amid refurbishment.
The King and Queen will continue to host smaller receptions within the palace for part of 2025. Still, the majority of royal events will need to move elsewhere until renovations conclude. This shift to Windsor Castle for almost all state matters signals more than just construction delays; it embodies shifting traditions and responsibilities as the royal family adapts to modern-day functionality, redefining what royal life looks like for generations to come.
Despite these major shifts, Buckingham Palace remains symbolic for British identity, housing royal history and culture. The current renovations present both challenges and opportunities to redefine its role within the contemporary monarchy, with the long-term vision of the Palace expected to reflect the new directions taken by King Charles III and his family.
