King Charles III and Queen Camilla are currently hosting most of the British royal family at Balmoral Castle in Aberdeenshire, Scotland. The gathering, which includes grandchildren, cousins, and other extended family members, is expected to last through late September or early October. This family reunion includes a reported "summit" led by Prince William in his role as Prince of Wales. The gathering will address the many dramatic events of the past year for the monarchy as well as discuss plans for the future in light of recent setbacks.
Among the topics believed to be on the agenda is an update on Princess Kate's health and recovery following her recent battle with illness. The Princess of Wales is said to be focusing all of her energy on rest and spending quality time with her family. Being surrounded by family at Balmoral is expected to help aid her recovery. The family will also reportedly discuss moving forward from the drama involving Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. It's believed any invitation for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex to join this summer was never realistic given ongoing tensions.
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Family summits and gatherings at Balmoral Castle were common rituals led by the late Queen Elizabeth II during her annual summer and early fall vacations in Scotland. However, there have been some new rules put in place by King Charles for this year's gathering. An insider confirmed that there has been a "gentle reminder" that no social media posts or photographs from family events are to be shared online. This is to ensure privacy for the high-profile guests during their private family holiday at the Royal estate.
With so many royals staying at Balmoral, including teenagers, privacy is a major concern. A ban has been enacted on using mobile phones and cameras during organized family activities and meals. According to a well-placed source, embarrassing photos getting leaked, especially of the King, are to be avoided. Additionally, the ban is believed to help Princess Kate feel more at ease without having to worry about unauthorized images circulating publicly as she focuses on rest and recovery away from the spotlight.
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While photos from official royal social media accounts may still be permitted with communications team approval, insiders say the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have implemented a self-imposed ban on anything related to Prince Harry and Meghan Markle during their time at Balmoral. William and Kate want to avoid further stress or upset for Kate's health by keeping all discussions and topics positive as she continues healing. The priority is ensuring the Princess of Wales' comfort and mental well-being during her stay in Scotland with family.
In addition to Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis, other young royals expected to join the main gathering at Balmoral Castle include Lady Louise Windsor and James, Viscount Severn. Queen Camilla's children and grandchildren will also be in attendance. This includes her son Tom Parker-Bowles and his children; as well as her daughter Laura Lopes and her children.
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Grandchildren of Zara and Mike Tindall - Mia, Lena and Lucas - are also set to visit, though the Tindalls may leave earlier as Zara has equestrian commitments at the end of August. Peter Phillips and his ex-wife Autumn Kelly and their daughters Savannah and Isla are additionally expected to join the multi-generational family holiday at Balmoral.
Speaking about Princess Kate's attendance, a royal expert sees it as a positive step in her recovery process: "She's going to Scotland to be with her family. This is a huge move not just because she's still not fully well, but because it shows how comfortable she feels with the royal family. As a royal mom of three young children, Kate knows she'll receive support and understanding if she needs to rest. She can relax and be herself without any pressures." Spending quality time surrounded by family is believed to aid Kate's healing as she continues prioritizing her health.
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Overall, the summer gathering at Balmoral Castle looks to bring multiple royal generations together under one roof to reconnect, find unity, and strategize plans for the future of the monarchy. With new rules around privacy and an emphasis on well-being, the family hopes to make the most of this time together amid continued change and transition for the institution.
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