It has been reported that the family of five will be heading to Balmoral, either to attend the opening of the grouse season on August 12 or shortly thereafter. Considered to be the Queen’s favourite residence, Balmoral is more than just a royal retreat; it represents precious memories and deep family ties. The visit, prompted by a surprise invitation from King Charles, has sparked feelings of nostalgia and gratitude in Catherine, who has expressed her deep gratitude for the Queen’s influence and kindness. Upon arriving at the historic estate, Catherine immediately recalled heartbreaking memories from her early days in the royal family.
Every summer, Queen Elizabeth would make her annual pilgrimage to Scotland for an extended holiday at Balmoral Castle. Renowned for her quiet yet majestic presence, the late monarch created an environment that felt like a secret residence, allowing the family to escape the public eye. In a heartfelt tribute, Catherine reminisced about the privileges she experienced during her first visits to Balmoral, recalling how the Queen would share stories, offer guidance and subtly impart the knowledge she had accumulated during a lifetime of service to the Crown.
The Queen was recognized as an incredibly generous and thoughtful host, especially to her many grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who always managed to give them a special gift during their visits. Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis are often delighted to find personalised gifts left for them in their rooms when they visit their great-grandmother, whether at Buckingham Palace, Windsor or Sandringham. Catherine elaborated on the Queen's tradition in an interview, saying that the Queen always leaves little surprises in their rooms, demonstrating her love for the family.
Catherine also noted that the Queen was particularly excited to learn about Charlotte and showed a genuine interest in her development. The Queen was said to have been overjoyed when she heard the news of her granddaughter's birth. She was soon one of the first visitors to Kensington after the family returned home, demonstrating her affection for Charlotte and her attention to her activities. Back in January 2018, when Charlotte was just two years old, the Queen commented on the sibling relationship while presenting a book to a ten-year-old pupil, highlighting the protective nature displayed between Charlotte and George.
Catherine returned to Balmoral with a sense of sadness as she reminisced about the sense of stability that Queen Elizabeth’s presence once brought to the estate. Interestingly, Princess Catherine’s relationship with Balmoral dates back long before she assumed the title of Princess Catherine. Her first visit took place in the early stages of her romance with Prince William when she was still known as Catherine. During that time, Queen Elizabeth made a warm gesture to Catherine, demonstrating their growing relationship, a gesture that illustrated the Queen’s intention to make Catherine feel truly welcome in the royal family.
