Though almost four years have passed since Queen Elizabeth II died, she's still in the hearts and minds of the world – including her grandson, Prince William, who recorded his cherished memories of his grandmother for a digital memorial in honour of the late Queen.
In an emotional video, the future King spoke of spending "many a quiet afternoon" with the late Queen and Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, at Windsor Castle, where his grandmother was "completely at ease" surrounded by her family, dogs and horses.
Prince William invited royal watchers to learn about a side of Her Majesty normally guarded from the public, writing about how the late monarch would ride her horses in Windsor Great Park, even in her later years, revealing a "side of Granny the world didn't often see – off duty, relaxed and utterly at home."
© Samir HusseinPrince William's fond memories
The Prince of Wales, who recorded his video at Windsor, where he too now lives with his family, said: "Whilst I had the privilege to know the late Queen better than most, some of my fondest memories of my grandmother are from here in Windsor.
"I remember many a quiet afternoon having tea with her and my grandfather at the castle, chatting, sharing stories, and seeing how completely at ease she was here, surrounded by family and her much-loved dogs and horses."
© Tim Graham Photo Library via GettyOn what he inherited from his grandmother, including eventually, the throne, Prince William quipped: "To this day, she's given me a love of teatime that I never knew I needed. These moments with my grandmother are ones I'll always hold dear."
The Queen's penchant for teatime
Not one to scrimp on her daily rituals, Queen Elizabeth II would take afternoon tea daily at around 5 pm, and it would usually consist of two types of sandwiches, as well as scones, small cakes and Earl Grey tea.
© Getty ImagesQuite different to how her son, King Charles, goes about his day; The King reportedly doesn't eat lunch, and often works late into the night – no tea and scones for him!
Explaining her husband's dedication, Queen Camilla has described Charles as "not one for chilling," with Prince Harry supporting this observation, once recalling that his father would sometimes fall asleep at his desk and wake up with a piece of paper stuck to his face.
His Majesty's second cousin, Lady Frederick Windsor, also revealed: "He works all day long, has a quick supper and then disappears until about 4 am to write letters. He cares about so many things and he comes up with brilliant solutions."
While King Charles might not be making time for daily cups of tea, as his mother did, we're hoping he too takes time to rest and spend quality time with Prince William, away from his busy royal schedule.
