King Charles’ historic decision to open Buckingham Palace and Balmoral to the public is another hint at his ‘lack of affection’ for the world’s most famous royal homes, says expert

King Charles’ historic decision to open Buckingham Palace and Balmoral to the public is another hint at his ‘lack of affection’ for the world’s most famous royal homes, says expert King calls Buckingham Palace ‘The Big House’, and while he intends to move there in 2027 when its £369million refurbishment is complete, those close to him insist he is ‘no fan’ of the royal home. His decision to open up Buckingham Palace and Balmoral Castle to the public reflects his emotional detachment from them – and a need to bring in money for their upkeep, royal experts told MailOnline today.

Paula Vennells remains silent while asked if she ‘lied to Parliament’
The King is said to be a firm believer in ‘the living tradition’, namely that a house which is not lived in becomes a museum. But some believe tours costing up to £100 suggest both homes are heading that way.

The Queen rarely stayed at her London home after the pandemic – preferring Windsor Castle – and before then only used six of Buckingham Palace’s 775 rooms.

Former BBC royal correspondent Michael Cole has said Charles’ decision to open up Buckingham Palace and Balmoral after just a year on the throne shows he has ‘no great affection’ for them – even verging on a dislike.

He said ‘The King dislikes Buckingham Palace and wants to open it up more to visitors. He is not comfortable living there and goes there only to conduct official business – for instance for the Prime Minister’s “audience of the King” usually on Tuesday evenings.

‘He also has no great affection for Balmoral, hence his decision to make it more accessible to the paying public. He always stays at Birkhall, his late grandmother’s cozy, comfy home on the Balmoral Estate.

He added: ‘It is the King’s instinct and wish to make the monarchy more accessible, making changes that would not have been contemplated while his mother was alive and on the throne’.

Many believe that Charles will do all he can to stay at Clarence House – just a five-minute walk from Buckingham Palace.

His home on The Mall has been revamped and furnished by Charles and Camilla with their own pictures, artworks, and priceless antiques. He is unlikely to relish moving in 2027 when he will be 78.

One source said recently: ‘Charles is no fan of “the big house”, as he calls Buckingham Palace. He doesn’t see it as a ­viable future home or a house that’s fit for purpose in the modern world. He feels its upkeep, both from a cost and environmental perspective, is not sustainable.

It is also no secret that he and Queen Camilla prefer living at Birkhall, the late Queen Mother’s home seven miles from Balmoral