In a surprising twist this summer, King Charles III has chosen to distance himself from Prince William and Kate Middleton, opting for a quieter retreat instead of the opulent Balmoral Castle.
The 75-year-old monarch has reportedly been spending his vacation at a more modest estate, leading to speculation about the impact of his decision on family dynamics.
While the royal family typically gathers at Balmoral for their summer holidays, this year, the king and Queen Camilla have made Birkhall their home base.
This choice has left Prince William and Kate feeling somewhat sidelined, especially when they traveled to Scotland hoping for quality time with the monarch.
According to insiders, this unexpected turn of events has caused emotional strain within the family.
A source close to the situation revealed to the Daily Beast that King Charles is focusing on simple pleasures during his time away.
Instead of engaging in royal duties or hosting family gatherings, he has been immersing himself in activities like painting and gardening.
For him, relaxation means getting lost in his hobbies, which include reading and tending to his beloved gardens.
Birkhall, nestled within the expansive Balmoral estate, holds sentimental value as it was once the cherished retreat of the late Queen Mother.
Gifted to her by her husband, King George VI, in 1930, it serves as a tranquil escape for the king.
Reports indicate that this serene environment is where Charles feels most at ease, often found indulging in his green-thumb passions.
The decision to remain at Birkhall has raised eyebrows, particularly given the ongoing tensions between Prince William and Prince Harry.