The iconic Buckingham Palace is set to lose some of its magic as King Charles and Queen Camilla prepare to move out of the historic building following a £369million revamp. The decision has left tourists and royal fans alike feeling disappointed, as they believe the palace will lose some of its mystique without the royal couple in residence.
The palace has been the residence of the sovereign since 1837, and it has been a popular tourist destination for decades. However, King Charles will move permanently to nearby Clarence House after the building works at Buckingham Palace are completed next year. The palace will remain the administrative headquarters of the monarchy, but tourists are worried that without the royal couple in residence, it will lose some of its charm.
Visitors to the palace expressed their concerns, with some saying that the decision would mean that the palace would lose some of its magic. Stefano Clemente, a tourist from Corsica, said, "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."
Despite the heat, tens of thousands of visitors turned out to visit Buckingham Palace on Friday, and many were disappointed to learn that the King and Queen would not be living there. Alexa Wong, 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."
The refurbishment of Buckingham Palace 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."
However, the King will continue to conduct state business, including state visits and garden parties, from Buckingham Palace. The State Rooms at Buckingham Palace, which are open to the public for short periods during the year, will be opened more frequently. The palace will remain a popular tourist destination, but the decision to move out of Buckingham Palace has left many feeling disappointed.
