Tourists give their verdict on King’s decision not to move into Buckingham Palace

Tourists and Royal fans said the King and Queen’s decision to move out of Buckingham Palace following a £369million revamp would mean the historic building would ‘lose some of its magic’. 

Metro spoke to visitors to the palace which has been the residence of the sovereign since 1837. 

But King Charles will move permanently to nearby Clarence House after building works have finished on Buckingham Palace next year. 

The palace will remain the administrative headquarters of the monarchy but tourists said without the royal couple in residence it would lose some of its ‘mystique’. 

They have been living at Clarence House during the refurbishment but they confirmed in a statement that they would not move back into Buckingham Palace. 

The statement said that as a result of the King and Queen not being in residence more rooms could be opened to the public. 

Despite the searing heat, tens of thousands of visitors turned out to visit Buckingham Palace on Friday and Metro joined them. 

Stefano Clemente, 45, a tourist from Corsica told Metro: ‘I think it’s a big shame. The idea that when you visit the King could be in the palace any far from you is very cool.

‘For the tourists I think some of the magic or mystique will be lost. Of course lots of people will still come but I think it’s a bad decision.’

Alexa Wong, 24, a mother of one, said: ‘I’m from Asia and we love the idea of the royal family. I think we all assume that the King lives in Buckingham Palace. The place is legendary and to think they will not be there does take away some of the fairytale idea.’ 

Deirdra Spence, who is planning a whirlwind tour of royal landmarks over the weekend, said: ‘I think the building will still be visited by millions but it’s a bit of an own goal for the monarchy. A lot is being spent on the building so I think they should live there to keep with tradition.’

But Gale Dudley, 58, said: ‘I follow the royals and I’m here today knowing full well the King and Queen don’t live there. I still think it’s a magical place.’

The refurbishment, which will include extensive rewiring and replacing of pipework, is due to end in March and is paid for by the Sovereign Grant which funds the King’s official duties.

The King and Queen have lived together in Clarence House, which is next to St James’s Palace since their 2005 marriage. 

A spokesperson for the King said: ‘His Majesty retains huge affection for Buckingham Palace and a deep respect for its role in royal and public life.

‘It will be a buzzing hive of royal activity in every other way.’

When the King is in London his Royal Standard flies from both Buckingham Palace and Clarence House.

It is understood that the State Rooms at Buckingham Palace, which are open to the public for short periods during the year, will be opened more frequently.

Meanwhile the King will continue to conduct state business, including state visits and garden parties, from Buckingham Palace. 

The announcement that he will not live at the palace was contained in accounts which show the King has become the first monarch to release their tax payments. They show he was among the UK’s top 100 taxpayers in 2024-25, paying £12.9million for the period. He paid £11.7million in 2023-24. 

MORE: The ‘secret’ London lido with a sun terrace and fewer crowds

MORE: Prince William is now a billionaire and richer than his old man

MORE: Thermal images show how hot roads and pavements are – but people are still taking dogs out