Five things you didn't know about the Queen
The Queen celebrates her official birthday on the 17th June
As Queen Elizabeth II celebrates her official birthday on the 17th June, here’s five things you (probably) didn’t know about her.
Nicknames
The Queen has two known nicknames. Her friends and family call her ‘Lilibet’ and Prince Philip affectionately calls her ‘Cabbage’.
Wake Up Call
There’s no annoying phone alarms going off in Buckingham Palace, instead The Queen wakes up to the sound of her personal bagpiper each morning. It’s said she can even tell the difference when her usual piper is off.
Travel
Queen Elizabeth doesn’t have her own passport, nor is she required to have one as all British passports are issued in her name.
Drinks
The Queen’s favourite brew is a cup of earl grey, and she’s known to drink gin and Dubonnet before her lunch.
Married Life
It seems marital tiffs are not uncommon, even when you’re a monarch. The Queen was once seen throwing a pair of tennis shoes and a racquet at Prince Philip in frustration during their first Australian visit.
The royal tantrum was witnessed by a stunned film crew, although the tape was confiscated by her people and has never been seen. It’s reported her majesty left the scene, only to return a few minutes later and apologise, saying: “I’m sorry for that little interlude, but, as you know, it happens in every marriage. Now, what would you like me to do?”.