King Charles received a Balmoral welcome with a meaningful nod to Queen Elizabeth. The news comes as the Windsors make their way to their Scottish retreat for the yearly summer stay. This year, the King has extended an invitation to Prince Harry and his family as well, in a bid to mend strained relations.
King Charles was welcomed at Balmoral by a member who has a funny history with Queen Elizabeth
King Charles has kicked off his summer break at Balmoral Castle. He arrived at the Scottish estate on August 18, where he was greeted by a pony linked to the late Queen Elizabeth. The monarch will stay at the Highlands retreat through September, with no official engagements on the calendar.
Charles touched down at Balmoral dressed in a kilt, green stockings, and a tweed blazer, stopping to say hello to fans waiting to welcome him. Locals turned out to greet His Majesty, joined by the Royal Regiment of Scotland and their Shetland pony mascot, Corporal Cruachan IV, who happens to be “notoriously naughty,” according to PEOPLE. While reviewing the troops, Charles greeted both Corporal Cruachan and his handler. The pony was on his best behavior, a change from his usual reputation.
A devoted horse lover, Elizabeth knew Corporal Cruachan’s cheeky streak well. Back in 2017 at Stirling Castle, the Shetland tried to take a bite out of the flowers in her hands. He also relieved himself during the 2018 Balmoral welcome ceremony. That moment had caused her to turn away and cover her nose with her hand. On another occasion, when she spotted Corporal Cruachan, the late Queen had remarked, “Here we go again.”
Life at Balmoral revolves around the outdoors, from hikes and horse rides to fishing and hunting. Barbecues are a staple too, and Prince Philip even earned the nickname “the master of the barbecue,” Vanity Fair reported.
In the 2016 documentary Our Queen at Ninety, Elizabeth’s granddaughter Princess Eugenie said that Balmoral is where “I think Granny is the most happy.” She added, “I think she really, really loves the Highlands.”
