King Charles pauses guard ceremony and chooses Clarence House residence, breaking royal traditions

Amid an unprecedented heatwave with temperatures approaching 40 °C, King Charles III suspended the traditional Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle from Tuesday to Thursday. The Household Division cited the need to protect soldiers, horses and spectators from heat stress, following official advice to limit outdoor activities. Guard duties continued in a reduced format, with soldiers positioned in shade and the ceremony carried out without full pomp.

Separately, the monarch confirmed that he will remain based at Clarence House rather than moving into the newly renovated Buckingham Palace. The decision ends a nearly 200‑year tradition of the sovereign residing in the palace, although it will continue to host official functions. The renovation, funded with £369 million of public money, is slated for completion in 2027. The king’s choice maintains Clarence House as his official London residence while Buckingham Palace remains the ceremonial hub of the monarchy.