King Charles III has chosen the historic Westminster Abbey as the setting for his annual Christmas Day broadcast, with this year's message centred on the powerful theme of pilgrimage.
A Historic Setting for a Personal Message
The broadcast, which will be the fourth festive message of his reign, was filmed within the Abbey's Lady Chapel. This is only the second time during his reign that the King has recorded the address outside of a royal residence. The chapel itself is a late medieval construction, originally built for Henry VII, and serves as the burial place for 15 monarchs, including Elizabeth I and Mary, Queen of Scots.
In a thoughtful touch of continuity and sustainability, the Christmas trees visible in the background were repurposed from the Princess of Wales' Together at Christmas carol concert, which was held at the Abbey earlier in December. The King is understood to have specifically requested a filming location away from a traditional royal setting, with suggestions provided by both the BBC, which produced the broadcast, and the royal household.
The Abbey's Pilgrimage Legacy
The choice of Westminster Abbey deeply connects to the theme of pilgrimage. For centuries, the central London landmark has been a major site of pilgrimage, primarily for those paying homage at the tomb of Edward the Confessor. Edward, a monk-like monarch who reigned until 1066, was believed to have healing powers and was canonised in 1161. His shrine, located at the heart of the Abbey, has drawn pilgrims for hundreds of years.
Above the King's head during the filming, though out of shot, hang the colourful banners of the Knights of the Order of the Bath, for which the Lady Chapel is the official chapel. These banners are suspended beneath the chapel's renowned and spectacular fan-vaulted ceiling.
A Message in the Monarch's Own Words
The Christmas broadcast is one of the rare occasions where the King speaks without seeking formal advice from the Government, allowing him to express his own personal views. The message, written by the monarch himself, traditionally features a strong religious framework, reflects on current issues, and often draws upon his own experiences.
The impact of such a broadcast on a location can be significant. Last year's message was recorded at Fitzrovia Chapel, a former sacred space of the demolished Middlesex Hospital. That venue has since reported a surge in visitor numbers for exhibitions and open days following the 2024 broadcast.
The King's 2025 Christmas message will be transmitted on television and radio at 3pm on Christmas Day.
