King Charles’s decision could bring an end to nearly two centuries of Buckingham Palace serving as the British monarch’s primary residence.
Buckingham Palace is welcoming visitors for self-guided tours until September 9, 2026, according to an announcement by the Royal Collection Trust.
To mark the opening, the trust shared an Instagram video filmed inside the palace’s Green Drawing Room and revealed the history behind its name.
“The Green Drawing Room in Buckingham Palace takes its name from the green and gold silk wall coverings installed at the request of Queen Adelaide, wife of William IV,” the caption explained.
The announcement comes more than a month after royal officials confirmed that King Charles does not intend to move into Buckingham Palace when its decade-long renovation is completed next year.
Instead, the monarch will continue living at Clarence House, his longtime London residence located near the palace. He will, however, retain private rooms at Buckingham Palace that can be used when needed.
Writing for Hola, Daniel Neira described the decision as one of the most significant changes to royal living arrangements in generations, suggesting it marks a new chapter for the monarchy.
Public access is believed to be one of the main factors behind the move.
“Without a resident monarch occupying the private apartments, officials plan to expand opportunities for visitors to explore more areas of Buckingham Palace throughout the year instead of limiting access primarily to the summer opening,” the article stated.
Prince William is also reportedly reluctant to make Buckingham Palace his future home. That raises the possibility that the landmark could eventually become a largely ceremonial and administrative center rather than a royal family residence.
The decision comes as work continues on the palace’s £369 million ($487 million) refurbishment, which includes replacing ageing electrical wiring, plumbing and heating systems.
When the renovation began in 2017, officials expected Buckingham Palace to remain the monarch’s main London residence, a role it has held since Queen Victoria took the throne in 1837.
However, neither King Charles nor the late Queen Elizabeth II has stayed overnight at the palace since 2019.
Around 700,000 people visit Buckingham Palace every year. Royal officials have said public access will increase, although further details have yet to be announced.
