The Queen starts summer holiday in Balmoral – without Prince Philip and not in her castle
The Queen arrived at her Balmoral estate for the summer – but she won’t be staying in her beloved castle.
The Queen will be staying at Craigowan Lodge on the luxurious estate until the end of July as she waits for Balmoral Castle to close to tourists.
The seven-bedroom home is only one mile from the castle and used to be a popular summer destination for Prince Charles and Princess Diana.
Usually before the Queen leaves for Scotland she previews the special summer exhibition that is put on for tourists in Buckingham Palace, but this year she left without looking at it.
This year’s display is called Prince & Patron, which showcases Prince Charles’ love of art.
It will be filled with personal touches such as family photographs including from the Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s Royal Wedding and a picture of Prince Charles holding his first grandchild Prince George.
As the Queen has dashed off to Balmoral, she will not see her son’s exhibition in favour for getting a head start on her summer holiday.
Other members of the Royal Family are expected to join her.
The royal family often go for walks on the estate, have picnics and cooks barbecues.
During the first week of August the Queen will inspect the battalion of the Royal Regiment of Scotland, who provide security during the royals stay.
The 50,000 acres offers the privacy that Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip look for during their summer away from the public life.
Princess Eugenie said during ITV’s documentary Our Queen At Ninety: “I think Granny is the most happy there. I think she really, really loves the Highlands.”
Balmoral Castle has been the Scottish home of the Royal Family since it was bought for Queen Victoria by Prince Albert in 1852 for £32,000, having been first leased in 1848.
The property remains privately owned by the Queen – as is Sandringham – and is not publicly funded.
Source: EXPRESS CO UK
