The Balmoral Test: A Royal rite of Passage
Staying at Balmoral Castle is an exclusive honor and a rite of passage for anyone hoping to marry into the royal family. It's become known informally as the "Balmoral Test," with famous participants including Princess Diana, Princess Kate, Meghan Markle, and Harriet Phillips. Though not an official test, it offers royal boyfriends and girlfriends the chance to see whether they would fit in with the family's outdoorsy lifestyle.
Ruthie Henshall, the ex-girlfriend of Prince Edward, told HELLO!'s A Right Royal Podcast that she was once summoned to the royal family's Scottish estate and shared what it was really like. West End star Ruthie, 59, described her experience as "surreal" and not what she'd anticipated.
She was welcomed with her own personal maid before going for a cookout without security. King Charles himself started "manning the bar," making her a very strong martini. This personal touch and the relaxed atmosphere stood in stark contrast to Ruthie's initial expectations.
Balmoral Castle holds a special place in the royal family's hearts. It was the late Queen Elizabeth II's favorite royal residence and where she passed away in September 2022. Princess Beatrice once said, "It's the most beautiful place on earth." She added, "I think Granny is happiest there. I think she really, really loves the Highlands... Walks, picnics, dogs—a lot of dogs, there's always dogs! And people coming in and out all the time."
The castle is a fond spot for other members of the family, and King Charles typically spends his summer holidays there. It's a place where family members gather, and the relaxed atmosphere and beautiful surroundings make it a perfect base for the royal family to come together.
Ruthie's experience at Balmoral highlights the unique and often unexpected nature of royal traditions. While it may seem like a simple cookout, it's a carefully orchestrated event that showcases the royal family's warmth and hospitality. The Balmoral Test is not just about fitting in with the family's lifestyle but also about experiencing the magic and charm of the royal world.
In my opinion, the Balmoral Test is a fascinating insight into the royal family's traditions and the personal touches that make them so beloved. It's a reminder that even in the most formal of settings, the royal family values warmth, hospitality, and a sense of community. As Ruthie's experience shows, the Balmoral Test is not just about passing a test but about embracing the royal family's unique and captivating world.
