King Charles Reflects on Queen's Final Days at Balmoral

King Charles III recently reflected on the final days of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, emphasizing the significance of Scotland to the royal family. He noted that Balmoral Castle, located in Aberdeenshire, was the late Queen's cherished retreat where she spent many summers. Despite her concerns about the logistics of dying in the Highlands, the King suggested that she ultimately chose to spend her last moments there, surrounded by family and nature. This sentiment was expressed during a speech marking the 25th anniversary of the Scottish Parliament, where he highlighted Scotland's special place in their hearts. Queen Elizabeth II passed away on September 8, 2022, at the age of 96, at Balmoral, a residence that has been part of the royal family since 1852. The estate was privately owned by the Queen and not part of the Crown Estate, making it a personal sanctuary for her. Princess Anne recalled her mother's worries about the implications of dying at Balmoral, indicating that the Queen wished to avoid causing logistical difficulties for others. However, the royal family encouraged her to prioritize her own wishes. Ultimately, the King expressed hope that his mother felt at peace in her decision to spend her final days in a place she loved dearly, reinforcing the emotional connection the royal family has with Scotland.