King Charles and Queen Camilla move royal residences ahead of return to public duties

The King, 76, is set to resume his public duties on Monday at Buckingham Palace, where he will host three organisations dedicated to educating future generations about the Holocaust.

This move follows the pattern established by Their Majesties last year, when they were seen attending a church service at Crathie Kirk near the Balmoral estate.

While the late Queen Elizabeth II traditionally remained at Sandringham until 6 February to mark the anniversary of her father's death, Charles and Camilla have opted to spend part of their winter break in Scotland.

The King and Queen hosted members of the Royal Family at Sandringham over the festive period, including Camilla's children Tom Parker Bowles and Laura Lopes with their families.

The Prince and Princess of Wales attended the Christmas Day service at St Mary Magdalene church with their three children, joining Charles and Camilla hours before the King's speech was broadcast.

Prince Andrew was notably absent from the celebrations, remaining at Royal Lodge in Windsor amid scandal surrounding his connections to an alleged Chinese "spy" who has been barred from the UK.

Princess Eugenie also missed the family gathering, choosing to spend Christmas with her husband Jack Brooksbank's family and their young sons, August and Ernest.

Charles maintains his Scottish residence Birkhall, which he inherited from the Queen Mother in 2002, alongside the historic Balmoral Castle.

The royal couple have continued the late Queen's tradition of hosting family members at Balmoral during their annual summer break in August.

Following last year's successful opening, Balmoral Castle will once again welcome visitors for interior tours in 2025.

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While interior tour tickets have already sold out, the public can still purchase general admission tickets to explore the grounds, gardens and exhibitions from April 1 to August 10.

The private Scottish estate has been in royal hands since 1852, when Prince Albert purchased it for Queen Victoria.

Balmoral holds particular significance for the royal family, as it was where Queen Elizabeth II passed away in September 2022.