Queen Elizabeth II: Reflections on her life and private habits

Marking the fourth anniversary of her passing on September 8, reflections on the life and private habits of Queen Elizabeth II highlight the contrast between her public dignity and her personal idiosyncrasies.

In private, the Queen maintained unique traditions. At Balmoral Castle, she reportedly preferred to wash dishes herself alongside Prince Philip, a practice that once led to a minor breach of protocol by former Prime Minister David Cameron. Her iconic handbag served as a subtle communication tool with staff; shifting it between hands signaled a desire to end a conversation, while placing it on a table indicated she intended to leave shortly.

Her personal life also included specific routines for her beloved corgis, who were fed according to a strict pack hierarchy. Additionally, despite the formal settings of the monarchy, the Queen was known to use simple Tupperware containers for her breakfast cereals.