Monarch to reportedly remain at Clarence House despite £369m palace renovation
King Charles is unlikely to ever return to Buckingham Palace as his primary residence, according to new reports.
The 76-year-old monarch, who was seen walking along a busy London street on Monday, is expected to continue living at Clarence House with Queen Camilla even after the 775-room palace’s extensive refurbishment concludes.
Despite a £369 million renovation set for completion in 2027, the King — currently undergoing treatment for cancer — is reportedly prepared to abandon the historic royal residence altogether.
As royal correspondent Camilla Tominey wrote in The Telegraph: “One concession to his health and advancing years that has been made, however, is that it appears unlikely he will ever move from Clarence House to Buckingham Palace after the restoration is completed in three years’ time, although it will remain the household’s office for the rest of his reign.”
If confirmed, the move would mark a significant break from royal tradition. Queen Elizabeth II used Buckingham Palace as both her official office and primary residence throughout her reign.
The palace will not host state visits until at least 2027 due to the ongoing works, with Windsor Castle stepping in to accommodate ceremonial duties in the interim.
Reports suggest Windsor Castle will play host to visiting dignitaries as Buckingham Palace undergoes one of the most extensive transformations in its history.
On Monday, King Charles visited Lancaster Castle to participate in an ancient ceremony at John O’Gaunt Gate, where both royal fans and anti-monarchy demonstrators gathered to greet him.
