After a challenging few months balancing his royal duties and undergoing cancer treatment, King Charles has finally made his way to Scotland to begin his annual retreat at Balmoral Castle. The iconic Scottish residence, a long-standing favorite of the Royal Family, welcomed the King on Monday, August 19, marking the start of his well-deserved break.
Upon his arrival, King Charles was greeted with a small ceremony at the Royal residence. Members of Balaklava Company, 5th Battalion of the Royal Regiment of Scotland, were present to welcome the King, along with their beloved mascot, Corporal Cruachan IV, a Shetland pony known for his past mischievous antics.
Photos from the event capture the King smiling as he interacted with the four-legged mascot, who was dressed in his Royal tartan kilt for the occasion. This year, however, Corporal Cruachan seemed to be on his best behavior, a notable change from previous years when his encounters with the Royal Family were far more playful.
During Queen Elizabeth’s time at Balmoral, Corporal Cruachan gained a reputation for his rebellious streak, providing memorable and humorous moments for the Royal Family. One such incident occurred in 2018 when the Queen arrived at Balmoral for her yearly stay. During the ceremonial welcome, the cheeky pony relieved himself in front of Her Majesty, prompting her to discreetly turn away and cover her nose from the smell. The year before, at Stirling Castle, the same mischievous pony tried to nibble at the Queen’s bouquet, much to her amusement, told The Mirror.
Despite these antics, Corporal Cruachan’s charm and spirited behavior endeared him to both the Queen and the public. This year’s more subdued encounter with King Charles marks a gentle departure from the playful exchanges of the past, signaling a new chapter in the long-standing tradition of the Royal Family’s summer retreats at Balmoral.
As King Charles settles into his stay at Balmoral Castle, the peaceful surroundings of the Scottish Highlands will provide him with a much-needed respite. The annual retreat to Balmoral remains a cherished tradition for the Royals, offering them a chance to unwind and recharge away from the public eye.