Heartbreak behind William’s deep connection to Scotland after dark days of grief

In light of the health issues faced by the Royal Family throughout the initial seven months of the year, the summer holidays are set to be a heartening change, particularly for the youngsters belonging to the Prince and Princess of Wales. Prince George, 10, his little sister, Princess Charlotte, who is nine, and their youngest sibling, Prince Louis, six, will be lending their mother some much-needed moral support as she tenaciously battles cancer.

There’s no doubt that Catherine, 42, will cherish every moment spent in her children’s loving embrace this summer. But a lighthearted getaway from the daily grind promises to provide that additional ounce of solace to her – and to her husband, Prince William.

Following a traditional visit to Scotland marking Holyrood Week by the King, Queen, and other pertinent royals, excitement builds for the most anticipated event of their summer recess – their retreat to Balmoral. As the annual visit looms on the horizon, it signifies a rather emotional return for the mother-of-three, says an expert in Royal affairs.

For Prince William, Scotland’s allure is more than just its stunning landscapes; it’s a land of pivotal life moments.

During their summer holiday at Balmoral in 1997, Prince William was hit with the devastating news of his mother’s death, a sorrow revisited when his grandmother Queen Elizabeth II passed away there in 2022. Yet, it’s also where he encountered future joy, meeting Kate Middleton.

Reflecting on his deep ties to Scotland, William shared his feelings: “In short, Scotland is the source of some of my happiest memories. But also, my saddest. I was in Balmoral when I was told that my mother had died. Still in shock, I found sanctuary in the service at Crathie Kirk that very morning. And in the dark days of grief that followed, I found comfort and solace in the Scottish outdoors. As a result, the connection I feel to Scotland will forever run deep.”

Scottish memories

Now as parents, William and Kate are creating new Scottish memories with their children. “George, Charlotte and Louis already know how dear Scotland is to both of us and they’re starting to build their own happy memories here too,” he expressed.

The Wales family holds a special bond with Scotland, one that veteran Royal commentator Jennie predicts will influence their summer plans. She believes that William will prioritise Catherine’s needs, adding, “I think William and the children will fit in with whatever is best for Catherine.”

They have the option to retreat to their private hideaway, Tam-Na-Ghar – a cottage with historical significance, often previously used by Queen Victoria and bequeathed to William by his great-grandmother, the Queen Mother, upon her death in 2002.

Jennie Bond, ex-royal correspondent for BBC, told OK!: “It’s been one heck of a year for the Royal Family so far and nothing would please the King more than to have his close family gathered together in the peace of Balmoral for a time to take stock together, mark the passing of an incredibly difficult few months and look to the future.”

Royal watchers are buzzing with speculation about whether the princess will join the family’s traditional summer retreat to Scotland. Jennie Bond added: “Like Catherine herself has said, cancer treatment brings with it a large measure of uncertainty and that must extend to whether she is able to spend part of the summer holidays at Balmoral. If she does go, I’m sure the whole family will want to surround her with love, support and renewed strength. She, meanwhile, will want to make the summer months as fun and carefree for the children as she possibly can after everything she’s been through.”

Should the family opt to stay closer to their usual stomping grounds, an extended getaway to Anmer Hall in Norfolk seems probable. The family adores this red brick sanctuary, where they can enjoy private moments, frolic in the garden, embark on local excursions, and visit the picturesque Holkham Beach.

Scotland, however, remains a place of profound significance for the princess, not only because of its beauty but also as the backdrop to her early Royal journey, which began when she met Prince William at the University of St Andrews.

Traditional escape

The Royal Family, while not yet confirmed, traditionally escape to the Highlands for their August retreat, where they’re spoilt for choice with leisure pursuits.

“Just like in the late Queen’s reign, time at Balmoral is family time,” Jennie said. “And, if the King gets the chance, he will relish the chance to hang out with his grandchildren by reading them stories, teaching them about the wildlife around them, playing cards and enjoying picnics… weather permitting!

“Then there are the ponies and what better place to learn to ride? The late Queen was always popping her children and grandchildren on ponies and leading them around, and now Charles will do the same.”

This hiatus from Royal responsibilities offers an ideal opportunity for bonding with the grandkids. The King, a known storyteller, may well delight the little ones with his 1980 children’s book, The Old Man of Lochnagar, set amidst the caves near Balmoral.

There might even be a chance for the King to share a contemplative stroll through Prince George’s Wood the arboretum at Birkhall named for his eldest grandson upon his birth in 2013.

The future king is set to enjoy a host of barbecues and escapades with his cousins in the Highlands, possibly even joining in the Royal tradition of salmon fishing on the River Dee alongside James, Earl of Wessex, 16, and his mum, the Duchess of Edinburgh, 59, who are both skilled anglers.

King Charles is expected to use his Highland retreat as a period for contemplation, having faced over half a year marked by health concerns.

“Balmoral has always been the place where Charles takes time out to relax and reflect,” notes Jennie. “Walking over the moors is his ‘me time’, where he can take solace in the hills and rugged countryside.”

Following Queen Elizabeth’s passing at Balmoral Castle at 96, she was celebrated as the Queen of Scots, and although the Royal Family have since performed official engagements there, her legacy remains deeply intertwined with Scotland.

Queen Elizabeth’s love for Scotland was no secret, with her lifelong habit of visiting annually, whether for state matters or leisurely family times. The King cherishes his Scottish sojourns just as much, signalling his intention to honour his mother’s example and preserve this cherished bond.

The King’s affection for Scotland remains steadfast, and he has celebrated significant personal moments there, including his engagement to Queen Camilla at their Birkhall home. This resonates with Royal history, as Balmoral was the setting where Prince Philip made his secret proposal to Princess Elizabeth back in 1946.

“It will be their second Balmoral summer without the late Queen – but I’m sure her presence, and absence, will still be keenly felt,” muses Jennie.

For William, Catherine, and the rest of the Royal family, the allure of escape that Balmoral offers is a beacon of hope amidst recent tribulations.

“The summer stay up there has always been a time primarily for family for a gathering in the peace of the Scottish countryside after the busyness and noise of their working lives in London and elsewhere. It’s a ‘breathe, relax and be still’ kind of place, and that’s what they all love about it,” explains Jennie. “And, this year, more than ever, they all need to gather themselves and re-group for what they must all hope will be better days to come.”