On September 29, 2024, King Charles III delivered a profoundly emotional address to the Scottish Parliament, commemorating its 25th anniversary.
During this heartfelt speech, he shared personal reflections about his late mother, Queen Elizabeth II, emphasizing her decision to spend her final days at Balmoral Castle—a choice deeply rooted in her enduring love for Scotland and its stunning landscapes. Balmoral, a cherished family retreat for generations, served as a sanctuary for the Queen and ultimately became the place where she passed away on September 8, 2022, at the age of 96.
With poignant reverence, Charles spoke of Balmoral as a beloved haven for the Queen, a location where she consistently found peace and comfort. The Queen’s annual visits to Balmoral, often accompanied by her family, including her late husband, Prince Philip, symbolized her profound connection to Scotland. These trips were more than mere holidays; they represented a vital retreat from public life, allowing her to relax in the serene beauty of the Scottish Highlands.
In his address, King Charles underscored the significance of Scotland not only to the monarchy but also to his family personally. He recalled how his grandmother, the Queen Mother, instilled a deep pride in their Scottish heritage. To the royal family, Scotland was not just a geographical location but an integral part of their identity. The King’s reflections on his mother’s final wishes added an emotional layer to the occasion, emphasizing how deeply Balmoral was intertwined with the personal lives of the royal family. The Queen’s choice to spend her last days in Scotland was not a mere coincidence; it was a decision filled with profound sentiment. According to Princess Anne in a 2023 documentary, Queen Elizabeth expressed some hesitation about passing away at Balmoral. However, her family reassured her that it was indeed the right place for her, a testament to her lifelong bond with the estate where she had created countless memories with her loved ones.
This speech was not merely a reflection on Queen Elizabeth’s life; it also served as an affirmation of Scotland’s enduring significance to the British royal family. For the Queen, Balmoral had been a refuge, a place where she could find solace and joy. For her family, it remains a site rich with memories and tradition. This deep connection was echoed in Prince Harry’s 2023 memoir, Spare, where he described Balmoral as a "personal paradise," further underscoring the emotional ties the royal family continues to hold with the estate.
The speech came shortly after Charles and Queen Camilla attended a church service at Crathie Kirk near Balmoral on September 8, 2024, marking the second anniversary of Queen Elizabeth's death. The service was a solemn occasion attended by senior royals, including Prince William and Kate Middleton. This moment held particular significance as it marked Kate’s first public appearance following her chemotherapy treatment, adding an element of quiet resilience and family unity to the event.
Charles's address at the Scottish Parliament not only highlighted the royal family’s deep affection for Scotland but also evoked cherished memories of the Queen’s final years. Her annual visits to Balmoral, often shrouded from the public eye, were a testament to her longing for simplicity amid the complexities of royal duties. These moments of solitude and family bonding became increasingly precious in her final year.
This emotional tribute to Queen Elizabeth’s life and legacy in Scotland served as a powerful acknowledgment of her enduring connection with the land. The royal family’s reflections—from Charles’s speech to Princess Anne's documentary insights and Prince Harry’s memoir—point to Balmoral as a symbol of continuity, love, and solace for the monarchy. Even in death, the Queen’s desire to remain close to Balmoral encapsulates a legacy that continues to resonate deeply with both her family and the nation. This bond with Balmoral and Scotland remains a cornerstone of the royal family’s identity as they navigate the future while holding onto the cherished memories of the past.
