What Queen Elizabeth And The Royal Family Really Do In Balmoral Castle

Queen Elizabeth is currently enjoying a much-deserved break at Balmoral Castle. The Queen has been spending her summers in the Scottish residence for decades, even spending a part of her and Prince Philip’s honeymoon at Birkhall Hunting Lodge in the estate.

“It's the most beautiful place on earth,” Princess Eugenie once said about Balmoral in an interview. “I think Granny is the most happy there. I think she really, really loves the Highlands.”

Undoubtedly, the change of pace brings joy to the 93-year-old monarch, but what exactly happens at the castle in Royal Deeside, Aberdeenshire? Here are some of the known activities that the Queen and her family do at the famed Balmoral Castle.

Picnics And Barbeques

The sprawling grounds have a perfect and calming view, and the royal family members are known to have picnics around the area. The Duke of Edinburgh is known for grilling sausages in his younger days, while the Queen reportedly washes up after everyone.

Dog Walking

As much as the Queen and her husband love hosting for the other members of the royal family, the image of the Queen isn’t complete without her flock of corgis. Before all her corgis died, she was often seen taking her beloved dogs to Balmoral and walking them on the grounds.

“Walks, picnics, dogs — a lot of dogs, there’s always dogs — and people coming in and out all the time,” Princess Eugenie revealed. “It's a lovely base for Granny and Grandpa, for us to come and see them up there; where you just have room to breathe and run.”

The Braemar Royal Highland Gathering

The summer isn’t complete without the Braemar Gathering, which the Queen — who is the Chieftain of the Highland games — makes a point to not miss. The annual engagement, which visitors are allowed to watch and attend, often sees Her Royal Highness laughing and enjoying under the summer sun. Games are typically held in the grounds, where the annual tug of war and sack race are done.

Attending Church

The royal family can regularly be seen on Sundays at Crathie Kirk, a church within the grounds where they attend the services. The Queen is often seen in attendance there, accompanied by other members of the royal family.