In the closing chapter of her life, Queen Elizabeth II focused not on ceremony, but on family. A new biography by Robert Hardman offers a detailed account of the monarch’s final summer at Balmoral in 2022, revealing that one of her most personal wishes was to gather her great-grandchildren for what would become lasting memories.
Book claims Queen Elizabeth II wanted her great-grandchildren to visit her in Balmoral
Queen Elizabeth II marked her Platinum Jubilee, 70 years on the throne, with carefully managed appearances. She skipped the traditional Trooping the Colour parade but appeared briefly on the Buckingham Palace balcony, offering a symbolic presence. In the days that followed, the limits she was working within became clear. She missed the service of thanksgiving at St Paul’s Cathedral, the Epsom Derby, and the concert outside the Palace, instead following the events from Windsor Castle.
Even so, Queen Elizabeth II made one final appearance during the celebrations. As crowds filled the Mall for the closing pageant, she arrived discreetly through a back entrance and stepped onto the balcony, dressed in dark green and supported by a walking stick. There was no flypast that evening, but her appearance became a defining moment of the celebration.
For the first time in her reign, Queen Elizabeth II missed the entirety of Royal Ascot, which she had rarely skipped. Even so, she proceeded with a planned visit to Edinburgh for engagements at the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Those who saw her during this period noted the physical toll. “She was so brave,” one official said, pointing to visible signs of ongoing medical treatment. Despite this, she continued to carry out her duties and maintain a sense of routine.
The monarch then returned to Windsor Castle to complete her final round of summer engagements before departing for her annual stay at Balmoral Castle. Although no one said it directly, many sensed a quiet note of farewell. According to a family friend, Queen Elizabeth II hoped to gather all of her great-grandchildren at Balmoral at some point during the summer, even if Prince Harry and Meghan Markle could not attend. She wanted to ensure they shared a happy memory with her, the source added.
