Royal robes, swan keepers, and gold-embossed letters may soon be relics of the past if Prince William has his way. The future king is quietly sketching plans to modernise the monarchy, trimming away its “ridiculous” and “totally outdated” traditions to make the royal family more relatable to ordinary Britons. He has made it clear that he wants to lead “a monarchy fit for the modern age”, one with less pomp, fewer old-fashioned titles, and a stronger focus on purpose and people, according to Cosmopolitan. Speaking recently to actor Eugene Levy on The Reluctant Traveler, the Prince of Wales shared that “change for good” is on his “agenda.” He said, “I embrace that. I don’t fear it – that’s the bit that excites me, the idea of being able to bring some change. Not overly radical, but changes that I think need to happen.” His comments sparked curiosity about what exactly those changes might be. “William’s vision is a monarchy fit for the modern age – less pomp, fewer outdated titles, and a stronger emphasis on purpose,” a palace insider told RadarOnline. “He’s pragmatic about it. He knows the monarchy can only endure if it evolves and stays meaningful to people’s lives.
1. Farewell to fancy outfits
One of the biggest changes William is said to favour involves the ceremonial outfits worn by royals during events such as the Order of the Garter. The insider said, “William can’t stand the more theatrical side of royal tradition.” They added that he finds parading around in velvet robes “medieval.” “William’s focus is on celebrating achievement, not ceremony. He wants the spotlight on those receiving honours, not on the royals in elaborate outfits,” the source said.
2. Scrapping old ceremonial roles
William also reportedly wants to streamline centuries-old ceremonial roles that no longer serve a practical purpose. These include positions such as the Keeper of the Swans or the Yeoman of the Glass Pantry. “Some of these ceremonial positions haven’t had a real purpose in centuries,” the insider explained. “William values history, but he’s practical. He wants the royal household to operate smoothly – not to preserve traditions just for show.”
3. Ending bowing and curtseying
Another royal protocol that could soon vanish is the long-standing practice of bowing and curtseying before members of the royal family. “William’s never been comfortable with all the bowing and curtsying,” said the insider. “He’d rather someone greet him naturally than follow old protocols.” According to the source, this shift is part of his plan to make the monarchy feel more “approachable and human.”
4. Less house-hopping
Unlike his grandmother, Queen Elizabeth II, and father, King Charles, William does not plan to constantly move between royal estates. “William isn’t drawn to the idea of rotating between royal estates,” the insider said. “Windsor will be the home base, with Sandringham and Balmoral reserved for short stays.” The move, they added, reflects his wish for “stability for his family, not a life spent packing and unpacking.”
5. Goodbye to gold-embossed stationery
William is also modernising communication within his household. Rather than relying on traditional stationery or monogrammed notes, he reportedly prefers using digital tools. “He’s practical – he wants systems that function smoothly, not trappings designed to impress,” the insider shared, noting that he already uses WhatsApp to communicate with his staff.
