Prince Louis and Princess Charlotte could ‘move to Shoreditch’ under future monarchy plans

The royal family may undergo significant changes under future monarchy plans, including Prince Louis and Princess Charlotte potentially moving to less traditional residences. Historian Kate Williams suggests that in efforts to modernize and slim down the monarchy, King Charles might open more royal residences to the public to generate revenue. This shift could mean that minor royals like Prince Louis and Princess Charlotte might end up living in rented flats, possibly in areas like Shoreditch. This approach contrasts with historical preferences where kings and queens maintained multiple grand homes.

Historically, queens have shown a strong preference for residing in palaces, viewing them as comfortable homes, while kings often saw these grand buildings as stages to display royal brilliance. For instance, Queen Elizabeth II had a particular fondness for Windsor Castle and the Sandringham Estate, with Balmoral Estate being her favorite retreat. In contrast, King Charles has been using Buckingham Palace more as an office rather than a residence, preferring to live at Clarence House in London and Windsor Castle in the countryside.

Kensington Palace, the official residence of Prince William, Kate Middleton, and their children, might also see changes. The residence currently also houses other royals, including the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester, the Duke and Duchess of Kent, and Prince and Princess Michael of Kent. These grand residences are already partially open to the public for visits, and this practice could expand further under King Charles’s plans.

King Charles’s vision for a slimmed-down monarchy involves reducing the number of working royals and possibly relocating minor royals to less grand accommodations. This approach aims to make the royal family more relatable and less burdened by the upkeep of numerous lavish properties. For instance, the idea of Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis renting a flat in Shoreditch, an area known for its vibrant arts and cultural scene, reflects a significant shift from traditional royal living arrangements.

Such changes are part of a broader strategy to modernize the monarchy and make it more financially sustainable. Opening more royal residences to the public would not only generate revenue but also allow the public to connect more closely with the royal heritage. This approach aligns with King Charles’s efforts to adapt the royal family to contemporary expectations and economic realities.