Queen Elizabeth II was celebrated yesterday, Tuesday 21 April, on what would have been her 100th birthday. Senior royals gathered together for a special reception at Buckingham Palace and Princess Anne opened the new Queen Elizabeth II Garden in Regent’s Park. Another way the milestone was marked was with a heartfelt speech released by her son, King Charles III. As well as his kind words, there was a hidden message in the new video…
Charles’ location of choice for the message was of great significance as the backdrop for his poignant words was Balmoral Castle. This royal residence is the jewel in the crown of the monarch’s extensive portfolio as not only is it where the family spends their private summers but it was also a much loved property of choice for the late Queen. So Charles standing proudly in the library of Balmoral was no coincidence.
He also chose his favourite personal photographs of the Queen to display in the background - discover Charles’ full speech here.
Why did Queen Elizabeth II love Balmoral so much?
© Bettmann ArchiveThe late Queen was spoilt for choice when it came to royal homes, from palaces to castles and gorgeous country manors, she had some of the most amazing properties in the UK at her disposal at all times. However, none seemed to capture her heart more than beloved Balmoral, where she would spend long summers. It is often believed that the simplicity of life on the sprawling countryside estate was the biggest draw for the Queen. Instead of the usual pomp and ceremony, she walked the dogs, rode horses and enjoyed languid days with her family.
Other royal family members noted Her Majesty’s adoration for time spent at the 50,000-acre estate, with Princess Eugenie speaking in the ITV documentary, Our Queen at Ninety, about it. "It's the most beautiful place on earth," she said. "I think granny is the most happy there, I think she really, really loves the Highlands... Walks, picnics, dogs — a lot of dogs, there's always dogs! And people coming in and out all the time."
Special exhibition
This year, there is a special photography exhibition inside the ballroom at Balmoral Castle, showcasing “iconic moments from her life and reign”. Part of the display will be a breathtaking image by Julian Calder of Her Majesty next to a stream on the sprawling Balmoral estate, sporting full ceremonial dress. This particular ceremonial robe of the Order of the Thistle will also be on display, as a highlight of the whole exhibition.
