Queen Camilla has joined King Charles at Birkhall, their cherished retreat on the Balmoral estate, ahead of the Royal Family’s annual summer holiday at Balmoral Castle. The couple, who have a deep affection for the secluded property, are enjoying some private time together before being joined by the rest of the family.
According to sources close to the royals, Queen Camilla, 77, traveled to Birkhall on Friday to reunite with King Charles. The estate, nestled in the heart of Scotland, holds special significance for the couple as it was the site of their honeymoon in 2005. Described as the “perfect retreat,” Birkhall offers a peaceful sanctuary for the King as he continues his cancer treatment, and a place where the couple can relax during what has been dubbed their “second honeymoon.”
“Camilla has been spending time with her family over the past few weeks and headed up to meet Charles just before the weekend,” shared the insider. “Birkhall is like a second home to both of them, they absolutely adore it. Not only is it where they had their honeymoon, but it’s also where they enjoy spending time together away from prying eyes.”
Birkhall holds a storied history within the Royal Family. It was not only a beloved retreat for King Charles and Queen Camilla, but also for the late Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, who honeymooned there, as did other royal couples including Prince Edward and Sophie, the Duke and Duchess of Kent, and Princess Alexandra and Angus Ogilvy. Originally occupied by the late Queen Mother during her time in Scotland, Birkhall has become a haven for multiple generations of the royal family.
While the rest of the Royal Family is set to arrive at the 52-bedroom Balmoral Castle next week, King Charles and Queen Camilla are expected to remain at Birkhall for the majority of their stay. However, they will join the family at the castle for dinners and special occasions, ensuring the traditional family gathering remains a cherished event.
The annual summer holiday at Balmoral will see a nearly full attendance of the Royal Family, including Prince William, Princess Kate, and their three children – Prince George, 11, Princess Charlotte, 9, and Prince Louis, 6. Also expected to attend are Princess Anne and her husband, Timothy Laurence. Mike and Zara Tindall are anticipated to join for part of the time, although Zara’s participation in the Wellington Horse Trials in Hampshire means she may leave early.
Other members of the Royal Family, including the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh and their children, are due to arrive later in the week. Notably absent from the guest list, however, are the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, who have reportedly not been invited to this year’s gathering.
As the royals gather in the Scottish Highlands, the Balmoral estate will once again serve as the backdrop for family bonding and tradition, with Birkhall remaining a beloved sanctuary for the King and Queen.
