The Windsor family are perplexed and don't know what to say. What's the reason? The last-minute decision that King Charles III has made.
He, who has shown on more than one occasion that he has a modern and business-oriented vision of the monarchy, has decided to take another step in his management of the royal estate. He has done so by choosing to monetize one of the houses his mother cherished most on the Sandringham estate. He has put it up for rent as a luxury rural accommodation.
King Charles III rents out one of Queen Elizabeth II's favorite houses
No one expected it, but it has happened. King Charles III has authorized the rental of Gardens House, one of the residences located within the legendary Sandringham estate in Norfolk. This is a private property that he inherited in 2022, and that he has now decided to turn into a source of income through tourism.
The house, which was even home to the royal gardener, has been recently restored to offer modern comforts, although it keeps its traditional aesthetic and the rural charm that Queen Elizabeth II loved so much. According to the agency Oliver's Travels, which is in charge of its marketing, the weekly rent is around €6,500. The residence is available to anyone who wants to enjoy a "royal" experience, even if only for a few days.
The residence can accommodate eight people, and it has four bedrooms, three bathrooms, a living room, a dining room, and a fully equipped kitchen. In addition, it features a spacious garden with spectacular views of the Norfolk countryside. Yes, an intimately connected place to the emotional history of the British royal family.
According to the booking portal, the décor combines classic elements with modern touches. The fine woods, quality textiles, and floral details evoke the British aristocratic tradition. In addition, since it is located within the royal estate, it allows guests to explore part of the surroundings where Queen Elizabeth II spent so many intimate and family moments.
A decision that reflects King Charles III's business vision
Since he took the throne, King Charles III has shown that he wants to modernize the way the monarchy operates. Part of that modernization involves a more efficient and profitable management of the royal estate. This decision to rent out a symbolic residence, far from being merely anecdotal, shows his determination for royal properties to generate economic benefits.
The husband of Queen Camilla has complete freedom to manage them as he sees fit. He has decided that one of those ways is to open them up to elite tourism.
The move has been met with some surprise within the Windsor family circle, especially because of the symbolic nature of the chosen house. For Queen Elizabeth II, Gardens House was more than just a residence: it was a personal refuge, a corner of peace. Some close associates believe that turning it into a vacation property contradicts the spirit she gave it in her lifetime.
In any case, the decision has been made. The monarch has shown that he isn't afraid to break with certain traditions if he believes it's what's best for the present of the monarchy. It's a different kind of leadership, more focused on profitability and less on the romanticism of inheritance.
Charles III knows that his reign must adapt to the times and he also knows that keeping the royal properties costs money. That's why his strategy seems clear. Yes, to take advantage of the emotional and patrimonial value of the Windsor legacy to attract luxury tourism and generate income.