The Royal Family is known for its strict set of rules, from what clothes to wear, how to speak, how to act, and even how to travel. It’s also well-known that the Prince and Princess of Wales, Katherine and William, run a tight ship at home with their own set of rules for their three children. Recently, however, fans believe they've noticed a subtle struggle between Katherine Middleton and her daughter, Princess Charlotte, regarding a seemingly minor but telling detail: how Charlotte wears her hair.
During last month’s Trooping the Colour event, a video captured a tender but persistent exchange between mother and daughter. Katherine was seen repeatedly pulling Charlotte’s long hair back over her shoulder, while Charlotte continually tried to wear it to the front. The compilation of these moments delighted royal watchers, with many commenting that the interaction was endearing and relatable. Some questioned whether this behavior was influenced by royal protocol, while others believed it was simply a typical "mum thing." After all, mothers everywhere, royal or not, often prefer things done a certain way and will gently enforce it.
Despite having the help of a nanny, Katherine and William are known to be very hands-on with their children, enjoying activities such as bike riding and baking with them. However, it’s not all fun and games at their home in Adelaide Cottage, Windsor. The royal couple reportedly enforces a strict household rule: no shouting in the house. Instead, the children are sent to their bedrooms or the "naughty step" if they act up. They also employ a unique technique known as the "sofa chat" to address any issues.
Every year, the family takes a trip to Balmoral in Scotland, where they spend the end of the summer together, away from royal duties and the public eye. This time allows them to reconnect as a family. This summer, Princess Charlotte is joining her parents at Balmoral, along with her younger brothers, Prince George and Prince Louis.
Former Royal Chef Darren McGrady, who worked for Queen Elizabeth II and was the private chef for Princess Diana, Prince Harry, and Prince William for over a decade, has shared a favorite treat he often prepared for the royal family during their summers at Balmoral: a no-bake cheesecake. He noted that Balmoral's Castle Gardens are abundant with soft berries such as raspberries, strawberries, black currants, red currants, and gooseberries, thanks to Scotland’s perfect climate for growing these fruits. The royal family would enjoy these berries almost every night, whether on picnics, out in the hills during barbecues, or as part of new recipes.
During these trips, it’s also common for the Royals to engage in hunting, a tradition steeped in history. For those hunting for the first time, there is a longstanding ritual where the blood of the first animal they kill is smeared on their face. Royal commentator Duncan Larcombe suggests that this could be the first year Prince George takes part in this tradition, joining his father, Prince William, on a stag hunting shoot at the Balmoral estate. It was even reported that Princess Katherine has participated in this ritual, though there’s no word yet from the palace on whether this will be George’s year to join.