King Charles III Plans Royal Train Decommission 2027 Amid Cost Concerns

South Western Railway passengers experienced a unique historical encounter when an actor portraying Henry VIII boarded a train to the RHS Hampton Court Garden Festival, marking 35 years of the event which promotes sustainable travel to Hampton Court Palace. The costumed Henry VIII was seen reading Hilary Mantel's 'Wolf Hall' and listening to 16th-century music, delighting festival attendees with selfies and receiving a red rose at the station. Meanwhile, King Charles III has decided to retire the British royal train by 2027, a move reflecting his preference for modernity, efficiency, and cost reduction within the monarchy. This decision aligns with broader efforts to modernize the royal household, which has also included simpler ceremonies and increased openness with the public. The royal train, in use since the mid-19th century and known for its opulence including features like a full-sized bathtub, will be replaced by more practical means such as helicopters to reduce expenses. These changes indicate a shift towards a less pompous and more contemporary monarchy under King Charles III's leadership.