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King Charles III Upsets Locals by Ending a 200-year-old tradition
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King Charles III Upsets Locals by Ending a 200-year-old tradition

22nd May 2024 | category: Travel | Hits: 205

King Charles III is ending a 200-year-old tradition at Windsor Castle, and many local residents aren't happy about it.

Starting June 1, people living nearby will no longer get free admission to the historic site, a practice that started in 1825.

Instead, the Royal Collection Trust will offer a discounted fee, cutting the regular admission price in half for those with a Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead Advantage Card. This card already provides discounts at over 200 attractions.

Windsor Castle
Windsor Castle

Julian Tisi, a parliamentary candidate, is among those against the change. He told the BBC, "Residents welcome tourists to their shops and restaurants, drive them around in taxis, and give directions on the street. In return, we get to visit Windsor Castle when we choose."

Though the castle is a private royal residence, it remains open to visitors year-round.

In response to the backlash, a spokesperson for the Royal Collection Trust told Hello! magazine that the new pricing policy is "in line with other businesses in the area."

The spokesperson added that they are looking for more ways to make the castle accessible to local visitors. This includes free visits for community groups and travel subsidies for schools working with children from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.

This decision is one of several changes King Charles III has introduced since his coronation in May 2023. For example, Balmoral Castle will be open for public tours from July 1 to August 4, and Charles has taken on several of his late mother Queen Elizabeth II’s charities, including Dogs Trust, a charity that rehomes dogs.