It's been more than a year and a half since King Charles III revealed that he was facing a shocking health crisis. As explained in a statement released by Buckingham Palace, Charles was diagnosed with an undisclosed form of cancer. He began undergoing treatment in early 2024, but started making more public appearances in recent months amid his ongoing health concerns. While he puts on a brave public face, a report by The Daily Beast in April 2025 indicates that many close to Charles are preparing
for the worst already.
Royal expert Christopher Anderson told the outlet, "King Charles' reign will by definition be short, but it's anyone's guess at this time just how short." Meanwhile, a source close to the royal family stressed that Charles "is determined to beat it and they are throwing everything at it," but despite remaining optimistic, the king is "really very unwell." Thus, the palace and all involved in King Charles' eventual funeral have been quietly preparing for "Operation Menai Bridge," the code name for the exhaustive plans detailing exactly what will happen upon Charles's death.
Although, in the event of Charles' death, there will be much more than simply his crown and title that will be passed down. Apart from his substantial wealth, investments, endowments, and charitable organizations, Charles also owns a staggering number of properties across the United Kingdom, and beyond. This will all be going to someone -- but to whom?
Read more: What Happens To Queen Camilla When Prince William Becomes King?
Many Of King Charles III's Homes Belong To The Monarchy Or His Charitable Organization
Upon the death of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, King Charles III became the owner of a number of famed royal locales across the United Kingdom, many of which have been owned and operated by the royal family for decades, if not centuries. The most notable include Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle. Both of these historic British landmarks are, by definition, owned by King Charles by right of the crown -- meaning, the institution of the monarchy owns them. Therefore, unless some massive upheaval or tragedy occurs sometime before William, Prince of Wales, takes the throne, they will go to Charles' eldest son.
In 2007, Charles purchased the historic Dumfries House, in Ayrshire, Scotland, which is run by his charitable organization, the King's Foundation, and would likely remain in their care upon Charles' death. The foundation also has stewardship over the Castle of Mey, in Caithness, Scotland, which has been a particularly beloved summer vacation spot for Charles.
Scotland is also home to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, Charles' official residence in the country. Meanwhile, in Aberdeenshire, Scotland, there is the sprawling Balmoral Estate. In April 2024, Charles made history when he opened the estate up to the public for tours. As for the crown's representation in Northern Ireland, Charles also enjoys time at Hillsborough Castle. As these iconic abodes belong to the crown, they will almost inevitably be passed on to Charles' successor.
Things Are Less Clear About What Will Happen To King Charles III's Private Properties
Many of King Charles III's homes are owned by him individually. Notably, Charles owns Dolphin House, a vacation home on Tresco Island in the Isles of Sicily. Dolphin House isn't open to just Charles and other royals. Instead, according to the website, anyone with an extra $10,000 can rent the gorgeous property.
Now, outside the borders of the UK, Charles also owns two different properties in the Transylvania region of Romania. Charles bought Blue House, located in the town of Viscri, in 2006. According to a tourism website, the Blue House has subsequently been turned into "a training centre for traditional crafts and rural skills." Charles also bought the Zalán Guesthouse in the nearby town of Zalánpatak. Most recently, in March 2025, Charles bought the Old Mill property in England. It is right next to Queen Camilla's vacation home, and Charles reportedly purchased the land to keep it from being turned into a wedding venue, according to Page Six.
Finally, Charles also personally owns Sandringham Estate in Norfolk. Charles inherited it from his mother, and it has been a favorite Christmas vacation spot for the entire royal family over the years. Charles also spent a great deal of time at Sandringham in recent months as he's dealt with his health issues. It's likely Charles will opt to keep the Sandringham Estate in the family and pass it down to his own children.
Read the original article on The List.
