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

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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.’