King Charles’ Christmas speech is set to air at 3pm on Christmas Day this year, marking the fourth time he has delivered the annual festive address as monarch. While the timing remains familiar, a major change is reportedly planned that significantly alters long-standing royal tradition.

A Tradition Rooted in History

The royal Christmas broadcast was first introduced by King George V in 1932. Charles’ late mother, Queen Elizabeth II, televised the speech for the first time in 1957 and went on to deliver 69 Christmas messages during her reign.

Since 1960, the speeches have been pre-recorded to allow them to be distributed to Commonwealth nations and aired at the most suitable local viewing times. The address is one of the monarch’s most recognisable duties, offering reflections on the year coming to an end, major events, and the meaning of Christmas in that particular moment.

 

Breaking Away From Palace Backdrops

In 2024, King Charles already departed from tradition by filming his speech outside a royal residence, something that had not happened since 2006. Rather than using the familiar palace settings associated with Queen Elizabeth’s broadcasts, Charles chose Fitzrovia Chapel in Pearson Square, London, the former chapel of Middlesex Hospital.

The decision carried added significance, as it was announced at the end of 2024 that the King was undergoing treatment for cancer. While treatment for his undisclosed condition continued this year, Charles shared “good news” on December 12, revealing that it would be “reduced” in the new year.

A New Location for 2025

This year, the King is once again breaking convention. His Christmas speech has reportedly been filmed at a location never before used for the annual broadcast.

While Queen Elizabeth typically recorded her messages inside Buckingham Palace, Windsor Castle, or Sandringham House, Charles appears keen to move away from those traditions. Instead, he has chosen settings that align more closely with the themes he wishes to convey each year.

For 2025, the speech was filmed in the Lady Chapel at Westminster Abbey in London.

The Significance of the Lady Chapel

The Lady Chapel carries deep historical and royal significance. As a church of pilgrimage, it has long attracted visitors on religious and spiritual journeys, as well as those wishing to see important relics.

Pilgrims have historically travelled to Westminster Abbey to honour Edward the Confessor, whose shrine is located there. The Lady Chapel is also the final resting place of 15 kings and queens, including Elizabeth I, Mary I, and Mary, Queen of Scots.

With such a rich and symbolic setting, it raises the question of what theme King Charles may choose for this year’s Christmas message.