It is likely that a family member has made William feel uncomfortable. Continuing a tradition they established after their marriage, the Welsh couple will join the royal family on Christmas Day, followed by another celebration with the Middletons. In previous years, Camilla has left Sandringham after dinner to host her family at her Wiltshire home, and this year her children Tom Parker Bowles and Laura Lopes, along with their families, have been invited to celebrate with the royals, which could affect William's time there.

Heartbreakingly, William may forgo the traditional celebrations at Sandringham if one particular guest, Camilla's son, is present; Although he has accepted his father's marriage, it is believed that he still has reservations about her and disapproves of her son's lifestyle. William and Catherine are said to be prioritising a more middle-class Christmas focused on their children and Catherine's parents. A communications executive who has worked with them in the past commented that they have built a successful image based on normality.

But the extravagant royal Christmas customs could undermine this image. The annual Christmas attracts national attention, complicating public perceptions of them. However, some long-standing traditions will remain, such as the pheasant and partridge shooting, although Charles may only make a brief appearance, with William leading the way instead. The usual family walk to church will go ahead as usual, while bird shooting for sport will continue unabated.

However, the next generation of royals intends to rebrand the Royal Christmas, making it less formal and more in line with the general public's holiday experience. A source said the change will include messages that emphasize chocolate, movie marathons and relaxation. Catherine is also looking to move away from the tradition of exchanging gifts on Christmas Eve in favor of the more typically British custom of doing so on Christmas Day, a practice introduced by Queen Victoria and supported by Queen Elizabeth, who prefers a humble and spiritual day over a consumerist display.

Reports suggest that due to the larger guest list, Christmas dinner will be held in the White Room rather than the late Queen's dining room. While King Charles is keen to make changes befitting a new monarch, he is also keen to maintain the traditions his mother cherished. The royal family will attend church together on Christmas morning and mingle with the public afterwards. Furthermore, Charles, who is overseeing significant renovations to Sandringham Gardens, will spend New Year's Eve in Norfolk, a time he usually spends in Scotland, before heading to the Highlands at the end of January.