Charles stays put: king to remain at clarence house amid buckingham palace renovation
King Charles III and Queen Camilla will forgo the grandeur of Buckingham Palace, opting instead to remain at their established Home of Clarence House – a decision reflecting a strategic shift in the monarchy’s priorities.
A twenty-year legacy
For over two decades, Clarence House has served as the royal couple’s residence, a familiar and deeply personal space. Despite the extensive refurbishment planned for Buckingham Palace, the King has reportedly determined that the palace should primarily function as a working hub and a venue for public engagement, solidifying Clarence House’s continued importance.
The decision isn’t surprising. The house, a Grade I listed building constructed between 1825 and 1827 by John Nash for the Duke of Clarence, has a storied past. It’s survived two World Wars, bearing the scars of the Blitz, and has been Home to numerous members of the royal family – including Prince William and Prince Harry during their formative years. Even as far back as 1947, Princess Elizabeth, later Queen Elizabeth II, resided there with her infant daughter, Princess Anne.
Prior to the younger Charles, Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother occupied the residence from 1953 until 2002. The building underwent a significant makeover in 2003, meticulously redesigned by Charles himself to reflect his personal style – a deliberate break from previous iterations. New fabrics, furniture, and artwork were introduced, transforming the house into a truly bespoke dwelling.
The house’s enduring status is a testament to its design and its continued purpose. Remarkably, Clarence House remains one of the last great London houses maintained for its original function.
While Buckingham Palace undergoes its transformation – a project slated for completion in 2027 – Charles and Camilla will continue to reside at Clarence House, a space steeped in history and imbued with a sense of continuity. The location, adjacent to St James’s Palace and within easy reach of Buckingham Palace, ensures the royal family’s operational heart remains secure.
Visitors can still glimpse a part of this historic landmark, with tours available during the summer months, offering a rare peek into the rooms and gardens of this enduring royal residence.