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King Charles and Queen Camilla | Source: Getty Images
King Charles and Queen Camilla | Source: Getty Images

King Charles & Queen Camilla Arrive at Breathtaking Estate Surrounded by Nature to Celebrate 19th Anniversary

Bettina Dizon
Apr 11, 2024
10:20 A.M.

King Charles and Queen Camilla were captured getting off their plane as they landed in Aberdeen for their 19th anniversary. Retreating to their Balmoral estate home has been a longstanding tradition for the reigning couple.

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King Charles and Queen Camilla recently marked a special milestone, celebrating 19 years of matrimonial bliss with a romantic getaway to Aberdeen.

King Charles and Queen Camilla join in the 'clapping for our carers' at their home at Birkhall on April 23, 2020, in Aberdeenshire, United Kingdom. | Source: Getty Images

King Charles and Queen Camilla join in the 'clapping for our carers' at their home at Birkhall on April 23, 2020, in Aberdeenshire, United Kingdom. | Source: Getty Images

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The royal couple, known for their enduring bond, chose their cherished Highland retreat for this year's anniversary as they do every year, a tradition they've honored since their wedding on April 9, 2005.

Arriving from RAF Northolt in north-west London, they were seen touching down at Aberdeen Airport in the evening. They later made their way to their secluded haven, Birkhall in Balmoral Estate.

King Charles and Queen Camilla leave after attending church in the village of Crathie, near Balmoral on September 8, 2023. | Source: Getty Images

King Charles and Queen Camilla leave after attending church in the village of Crathie, near Balmoral on September 8, 2023. | Source: Getty Images

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Nestled a mere seven miles from the castle, Balmoral is a place that holds sentimental value as it was where they spent their honeymoon. This visit, set against the backdrop of King Charles' ongoing battle with an undisclosed form of cancer, adds mystery to whether he is in the midst of treatment or taking time to rest.

Birkhall on the Balmoral estate in Scotland,  May 18, 1961. | Source: Getty Images

Birkhall on the Balmoral estate in Scotland, May 18, 1961. | Source: Getty Images

Located in the expansive Cairngorms National Park, this remote estate offers a tranquil escape from public life. For King Charles, following in his mother's footsteps to find solace and strength in the beauty of nature is a cherished ritual, one that he and Queen Camilla now share as they look back on nineteen years together and forward to many more.

King Charles during a ceremony to present service medals to soldiers from the 51st Highland, 7th Battalion, The Royal Regiment of Scotland in the grounds of Birkhall in Ballater, Aberdeenshire, on October 13, 2012. | Source: Getty Images

King Charles during a ceremony to present service medals to soldiers from the 51st Highland, 7th Battalion, The Royal Regiment of Scotland in the grounds of Birkhall in Ballater, Aberdeenshire, on October 13, 2012. | Source: Getty Images

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The estate has long been a cherished retreat for the British royal family. Queen Elizabeth, as a young princess, along with her sister Margaret Rose, enjoyed many joyful holidays at Balmoral.

Queen Elizabeth II with then Prince Charles in the garden at Birkhall on September 2, 2009, Balmoral Estate, Scotland. | Source: Getty Images

Queen Elizabeth II with then Prince Charles in the garden at Birkhall on September 2, 2009, Balmoral Estate, Scotland. | Source: Getty Images

This tradition continued throughout her reign; the estate became her preferred summer sanctuary, where she found peace and solace amidst its vast landscapes. It was here that Queen Elizabeth indulged in her love for Highland ponies and took leisurely strolls, truly embracing the serene embrace of Balmoral.

Queen Elizabeth II and then-Prince Charles plant a tree to mark the start of the official planting season for the Queen's Green Canopy at the Balmoral Cricket Pavilion, Balmoral Estate in Scotland on October 1, 2021. | Source: Getty Images

Queen Elizabeth II and then-Prince Charles plant a tree to mark the start of the official planting season for the Queen's Green Canopy at the Balmoral Cricket Pavilion, Balmoral Estate in Scotland on October 1, 2021. | Source: Getty Images

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Balmoral holds an equally special place in His Majesty's heart, not only as a cherished childhood memory but also as a testament to his grandmother's influence.

Balmoral Castle from the walled rose garden, residence of the British Royal Family, Royal Deeside, Aberdeenshire, Scotland, United Kingdom | Source: Getty Images

Balmoral Castle from the walled rose garden, residence of the British Royal Family, Royal Deeside, Aberdeenshire, Scotland, United Kingdom | Source: Getty Images

"It is such a special place, particularly because it was made by my grandmother," he reflected. This "childhood garden," as he fondly calls it, has seen only modest enhancements by the King, aimed at preserving its original charm and beauty.

Balmoral Castle from the walled rose garden, residence of the British Royal Family, Royal Deeside, Aberdeenshire, Scotland, United Kingdom. | Source: Getty Images

Balmoral Castle from the walled rose garden, residence of the British Royal Family, Royal Deeside, Aberdeenshire, Scotland, United Kingdom. | Source: Getty Images

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Situated 600ft above sea level and facing the majestic Lochnagar mountain, Birkhall, the residence on the estate, is enveloped in an aura of seclusion and tranquility.

King Charles during a ceremony to present service medals to soldiers from the 51st Highland, 7th Battalion, The Royal Regiment of Scotland in the grounds of Birkhall in Ballater, Aberdeenshire, on October 13, 2012. | Source: Getty Images

King Charles during a ceremony to present service medals to soldiers from the 51st Highland, 7th Battalion, The Royal Regiment of Scotland in the grounds of Birkhall in Ballater, Aberdeenshire, on October 13, 2012. | Source: Getty Images

The River Muick, a vibrant waterway that courses through the estate, adds charm to the garden. The sound of its water and the loud calls of swifts flying above are what captivates the Royal. "The river is the magic," King Charles marveled.

The River Muick in Balmoral Estate, dated 2022 | Source: YouTube/BBC News

The River Muick in Balmoral Estate, dated 2022 | Source: YouTube/BBC News

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Meanwhile, the gardens at Birkhall are a testament to the meticulous care and dedication of its caretakers. Flowers particularly blooming in the late summer months also align well with the Monarch's preferred time to visit.

The garden in Balmoral Estate, dated 2022 | Source: YouTube/BBC News

The garden in Balmoral Estate, dated 2022 | Source: YouTube/BBC News

Interestingly, the hands that tend to this lush expanse, Ann Bain and Suzie Graham, were not always into gardening. Originally horse loggers, their journey to becoming Birkhall Gardens' custodians began with a desire for change. This led them to garden duties at Birkhall one day a week.

The garden in Balmoral Estate, dated 2022 | Source: YouTube/BBC News

The garden in Balmoral Estate, dated 2022 | Source: YouTube/BBC News

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Eight years into this new path, they stepped up as the garden's full-time caretakers. They progressed under the mentorship of Debs Goodenough, King Charles's head gardener at Highgrove.

The garden in Balmoral Estate, dated 2022 | Source: YouTube/BBC News

The garden in Balmoral Estate, dated 2022 | Source: YouTube/BBC News

The garden's layout is a scenic marvel, with levels that show off many red roses, like Europeana, Le Mans, and Bishop Elphinstone. This floral splendor is anchored by trimmed yew decorations. The main one comes from the Queen Mother, while King Charles adds more to make the garden look good in winter.

King Charles during an interview in the garden in Balmoral Estate, dated 2022 | Source: YouTube/BBC News

King Charles during an interview in the garden in Balmoral Estate, dated 2022 | Source: YouTube/BBC News

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From peas and beans to dahlias and sweet peas, and from potatoes to raspberries, the garden is a blend of fruit, vegetables, and flowers, cultivated to provide fresh produce for the house during the royal family's stay.

The garden in Balmoral Estate, dated 2022 | Source: YouTube/BBC News

The garden in Balmoral Estate, dated 2022 | Source: YouTube/BBC News

This self-sufficient oasis not only serves the practical needs of Birkhall but also stands as a breathtaking spectacle of nature's abundance, meticulously curated to peak in beauty when the King and Queen are in residence.

The garden in Balmoral Estate, dated 2022 | Source: YouTube/BBC News

The garden in Balmoral Estate, dated 2022 | Source: YouTube/BBC News

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Just like King Charles and Queen Camilla's recent retreat, Prince William and Princess Catherine also took a brief hiatus. We previously reported that William and Catherine prepared to spend their Easter break away from the public eye at their country home, Anmer Hall.

This decision came on the heels of the heart-wrenching announcement that Kate had been diagnosed with cancer, an event that has led to an outpouring of support from across the globe.

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Prince William, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Princess Catherine at their Anmer Hall home as seen in a YouTube video dated April 29, 2021 | Source: Youtube.com/@telegraph

Prince William, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Princess Catherine at their Anmer Hall home as seen in a YouTube video dated April 29, 2021 | Source: Youtube.com/@telegraph

The couple, joined by their children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis, has opted for the tranquility of their Norfolk residence over the traditional Easter service in Windsor, marking a poignant moment in their lives.

Prince Louis as seen in a YouTube video dated April 29, 2021 | Source: Youtube.com/@telegraph

Prince Louis as seen in a YouTube video dated April 29, 2021 | Source: Youtube.com/@telegraph

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Anmer Hall, a Georgian mansion nestled in the lush landscapes of Norfolk, stands as a testament to the couple's love story, gifted by the late Queen Elizabeth II as a wedding present.

Anmer Hall in Norfolk, England on September 17, 2013 | Source: Getty Images

Anmer Hall in Norfolk, England on September 17, 2013 | Source: Getty Images

This 10-bedroom sanctuary, built in 1802, has been the backdrop for the family's most intimate moments, away from the relentless gaze of public life.

Prince William, Princess Charlotte, and Prince George as seen in a YouTube video dated April 29, 2021 | Source: Youtube.com/@telegraph

Prince William, Princess Charlotte, and Prince George as seen in a YouTube video dated April 29, 2021 | Source: Youtube.com/@telegraph

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The mansion, which has undergone several renovations, the most recent in 2021 costing a reported £1.5 million, offers the Wales family a retreat to focus on recovery and togetherness in these trying times.

Anmer Hall in Norfolk, England on September 17, 2013 | Source: Getty Images

Anmer Hall in Norfolk, England on September 17, 2013 | Source: Getty Images

The news of Kate's diagnosis has reverberated through the royal family and among royal watchers, prompting a recalibration of the family's Easter plans.

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Instead of attending the high-profile Easter church service, the Wales family will embrace the solace of Anmer Hall, leveraging the healing power of privacy and the natural beauty surrounding them.

Anmer Hall in Norfolk, England on September 17, 2013 | Source: Getty Images

Anmer Hall in Norfolk, England on September 17, 2013 | Source: Getty Images

This decision underscores a profound moment of unity and support within the family, as they navigate through Kate's treatment and recovery process.

Princess Catherine at the Fakenham Garden Centre in Norfolk on June 18, 2020 in Fakenham, United Kingdom | Source: Getty Images

Princess Catherine at the Fakenham Garden Centre in Norfolk on June 18, 2020 in Fakenham, United Kingdom | Source: Getty Images

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A Kensington Palace spokesperson conveyed the collective spirit of resilience, stating, "The Princess will return to official duties when she is cleared to do so by her medical team. She is in good spirits and is focused on making a full recovery."

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In the wake of this news, the couple was seen boarding a helicopter, marking their departure to Anmer Hall. This visual, captured against the backdrop of Windsor, epitomizes the journey ahead for the family — one of hope, healing, and privacy.

Anmer Hall in Norfolk, England on September 17, 2013 | Source: Getty Images

Anmer Hall in Norfolk, England on September 17, 2013 | Source: Getty Images

The stunning Georgian mansion, with its rich history and serene environment, offers an ideal setting for the Princess to focus on her health, surrounded by her loved ones.

Princess Catherine talking to Martin and Jennie Turner, owners of the Fakenham Garden Centre in Norfolk on June 18, 2020 in Fakenham, United Kingdom | Source: Getty Images

Princess Catherine talking to Martin and Jennie Turner, owners of the Fakenham Garden Centre in Norfolk on June 18, 2020 in Fakenham, United Kingdom | Source: Getty Images

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Kate's connection to Norfolk extends beyond the walls of Anmer Hall. Throughout her time in the region, she has been a familiar face in the local community, visiting businesses and engaging with residents in a manner that reflects her down-to-earth nature.

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From browsing at the Grapes Gallery in Snettisham to unnoticed visits to the Spar supermarket, Kate's presence in Norfolk has always been marked by a sense of normalcy and warmth.

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Local business owners, like Rob Kerr of Grapes Gallery, fondly recall encounters with Kate, highlighting her approachable demeanor.

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"She didn't come across as the type of person who would expect people to say anything like that to her anyway. She was very down to earth," Kerr shares. This sentiment is echoed throughout the community, with residents and business owners alike cherishing the moments they've shared with the Wales family.

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Norfolk has provided a backdrop for the family to live a life marked by moments of normalcy and privacy. The region's peaceful environment and friendly people make it an ideal place for the royals to raise their children, far from the prying eyes of the media.

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Local establishments, from the J.E. Howard butcher shop to the Church Farm bed and breakfast, have become part of the fabric of their daily lives, offering a glimpse into a world away from royal duties and public engagements, which Kate has stepped back from.

As we previously reported, Kate has been visibly absent from public engagements for some time with no specified return following her cancer diagnosis announcement.

Kate Middleton, the Princess of Wales | Source: Youtube/The Mirror

Kate Middleton, the Princess of Wales | Source: Youtube/The Mirror

Recently, Kate turned to social media and revealed that she had been diagnosed with cancer. The announcement, made through a profoundly emotional video message, has unveiled a personal health battle within the royal family, marking a rare moment of vulnerability for the British monarchy.

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The diagnosis followed what was initially deemed a successful major abdominal surgery in London in January, originally reported to address a non-cancerous condition.

Kate Middleton, the Princess of Wales | Source: Youtube/The Mirror

Kate Middleton, the Princess of Wales | Source: Youtube/The Mirror

However, post-operative tests unexpectedly revealed the presence of cancer, prompting an immediate commencement of preventative chemotherapy treatments for the Princess.

In her video message, Kate expressed gratitude for the support and understanding from the public, the great care she received from her incredible medical team, and the global community's kindness.

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The news arrives amid recent public sightings of Kate and William, which showed no outward indication of the family's private struggle. Kate's candid disclosure underscores the challenges they have faced in coming to terms with the diagnosis.

This highlights the concerted effort to shield their young children, George, Charlotte, and Louis, from public scrutiny during this challenging time. The nature of Kate's cancer remains undisclosed, with Kensington Palace urging respect for the family's privacy and refraining from speculation.

However, it was previously reported on January 29, 2024, that the Princess of Wales was finally released from the hospital following a planned abdominal surgery.

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Kensington Palace shared an update on Kate's recovery journey. The message posted to the official Instagram account of William and Kate that she has returned to her home.

She is back at Windsor, where she continues to recover. From the statement, the public has been told that Princess Catherine's recovery is progressing well.

Princess Catherine at the Evelina London's New Children's Day surgery unit opening in London, England on December 5, 2023 | Source: Getty Images

Princess Catherine at the Evelina London's New Children's Day surgery unit opening in London, England on December 5, 2023 | Source: Getty Images

Another part of the announcement read, "The Prince and Princess wish to say a huge thank you to the entire team at The London Clinic, especially the dedicated nursing staff, for the care they have provided."

At the end of the statement, the Royal family expressed their deep gratitude to the countless well-wishers worldwide who prayed and sent goodwill to the Princess and her family. The celebratory news comes just under two weeks after communication from Kensington Palace first made the public aware of Kate's hospitalization and abdominal surgery.

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Based on the recovery timeline given in that first statement concerning how long the Princess was expected to stay at The London Clinic, Kate Middleton is on track to making a full recovery.

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Amidst curiosity and concern for Princess Catherine's health, the Palace assured the public of her steady progress, kindly requesting privacy during this time. We previously reported that people were still relieved to see pictures of the Princess near Windsor accompanied by her mother, after she was spotted for the first time in over two months since her surgery.

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On Monday, near Windsor Castle, the Princess of Wales was seen sitting in the passenger seat of a black Audi SUV. Her mom, Carole Middleton, was driving, she looked relaxed, simply focusing on the road ahead. Trying to maintain her privacy, Kate wore black sunglasses and let her hair down.

At that time, Kate decided to reside in their family's residence, Adelaide Cottage in Windsor.

Windsor Castle, Windsor, 2007 | Source: Getty Images

Windsor Castle, Windsor, 2007 | Source: Getty Images

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Adelaide Cottage, nestled within the serene Windsor estate, is a perfect example of a quieter, more intimate side of royal living. Chosen by Prince William and his wife, this residence offers a stark contrast to their bustling London base at Kensington Palace.

The cottage, nearly 200 years old, is a perfect balance between elegance and simplicity. With classic marble fireplaces and a dignified facade, it is known for its historical charm.

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Prince George, Princess Charlotte, Prince Louis, Prince William, Duke of Cambridge and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, 2022 | Source: Getty Images

Prince George, Princess Charlotte, Prince Louis, Prince William, Duke of Cambridge and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, 2022 | Source: Getty Images

The house offers the Cambridges a serene and private hidden place surrounded by nature. Away from busy loud London, and close to the Middleton children's school, it is a perfect place to recover.

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