As Buckingham Palace undergoes a historic £369 million renovation, sources close to the royal household suggest that King Charles III is unlikely to return to the iconic residence—despite its central role in the monarchy’s public life.

Instead, the monarch and Queen Camilla are expected to remain at Clarence House, their long-standing London home, even after the palace’s refurbishment is completed in 2027.

Why the Palace Might Remain Empty

Although Buckingham Palace has served as the symbolic heart of the British monarchy for generations, insiders report that the King sees it differently.

According to royal correspondent Camilla Tominey, one quiet concession to both the King’s health and age is that the move to the palace now seems unlikely.

“It appears unlikely he will ever move from Clarence House to Buckingham Palace after the restoration is completed,” Tominey wrote in The Telegraph. “Although it will remain the household’s office for the rest of his reign.”

A friend of the King once told The Times:

“He’s not fond of ‘the big house.’ He doesn’t see it as suitable for modern royal life.”

A More Personal and Practical Home

Clarence House has provided a sense of familiarity and comfort to both King Charles and Queen Camilla. Royal aides have described them as “very comfortable” in their current residence, with no intention of relocating.