While the Royal Family still follow plenty of traditions over the Christmas period – and take part in a much-loved walkabout for the public – behind closed doors, they “let go” and show how “fun they are.”
The latest revelation comes from former Royal butler Grant Harrold, who previously worked for King Charles III.
Grant, speaking to Slingo, revealed many things about Christmases behind closed doors during his time with the Royal Family, and how they have worked hard to make the festivities a special time for all the family to enjoy together.
Explaining how Christmas came to be so special to them, he shared, “They’ve worked so hard to make Christmas an important time for the family. The King will do what he can to carry on that tradition as it has been what he’s used to while growing up. I don’t think he would want to let that tradition stop.”
While many traditions established by the late Queen Elizabeth might remain in place – including the old-fashioned dinner – one thing one might not expect to see is Prince William engaged in a water fight this year.
But he has been known to get rowdy in the past.
As Grant explained, “It was always great fun. It was always so festive and made you feel so involved and welcome to be a part of the celebrations. We would always be invited to the Christmas parties within the family, which were always so exciting.”
“I remember going to one at St James’ Palace and hanging out with Prince William, Prince Harry and [Queen] Camilla. I remember there was a water fight going on between another member of staff and Prince William - and I was in the firing line sitting between them!”
“They filled up water balloons and it was hilarious. Everyone was in fits of laughter. It really opened my eyes to how fun the Royals are deep down…”
The future King, engaged in a water fight. The royals really do “let go” at Christmas, as Grant suggests.
As for other unexpected fun elements over the years?
Parties in the past have also included “magicians, and you’d receive a Christmas card from the Queen.”
While the staff were invited, the parties were never too wild. They “wouldn’t go on until the early hours. Things would be wrapped up by 8pm as it would start around lunchtime.”
A daytime party filled with magicians and still enough time for a good night’s sleep? We’re taking a leaf out of the royal rulebook this Christmas.
When it comes to giving gifts, Grant got a first-person look at what the royals would give one another.
“They’re always a bit of fun,” he explained, and we know that gifts between the family in the past are a tad… disappointing to say the least. Lest we forget Princess Margaret’s surprising choice of present for Prince Harry.
However, the Princess of Wales can expect something a bit more special from her husband.
Grant revealed, “But with William and Kate, I’m sure they will give each other something nice that they will like. Kate will probably get a watch or some jewellery from William.”
Last year, it was thought William gave Kate the gold-plated earrings loaded with symbolism she wore for the walkabout. We’ll keep our eyes peeled for a new sparkler on the Princess this Christmas day…
-
Kate Garraway spreads Christmas joy with rainbow checkerboard dress and pink heelsKate Garraway's patterned jumper dress reminded us that fabulous festive outfits can also be so cosy and comfortable
-
Drew Barrymore says she ‘struggled so much’ mentally with perimenopause, revealing her unexpected symptomsDrew Barrymore has opened up about the mental toll perimenopause has taken on her, explaining the barrage of symptoms she's been hit with since entering this phase.
-
Best of British: The ways the royals have championed UK labelsThe Royal Family love to showcase the best British brands, from elegant fashion to luxury treats
-
Times the royals sent subtle messages with their outfitsWhen it comes to the Royal Family's fashion choices, there's usually more to it than meets the eye
-
Fascinating facts about the late Queen Mother, ElizabethThe Queen Mother lived a truly remarkable life - and these facts prove just how important a role she played in history
-
All the times the royal women showed us how to look stylish at churchFrom Queen Camilla to the Princess of Wales, these are the times the royal ladies showed us how to look stylish at church...
-
Diplomatic dressing: Understanding the Royal Family's clever clothing trend, and the best examples of it in actionIt's well-known that the royals turn to their clothing to send messages, but they also use fashion to foster good relationships around the globe
-
The best royal Christmas portraits and cards through the yearsGet in the festive spirit with these royal family Christmas portraits from years gone by...
-
Royals with animals: The most adorable moments caught on cameraThe Royal Family have a long history of loving animals and working for various welfare charities, and it's spawned some adorable moments
-
Big, bold and bright - royals have been nailing dopamine dressing for decadesFrom Queen Elizabeth to Princess Catherine, the royals have been dopamine dressing before there was a term for the trend
