Join us as we celebrate Queen Camilla’s 77th birthday and delve into her extraordinary life story. From her early years and education to her marriage with King Charles and their historic coronation, discover the key moments that shaped her journey. Read more about the remarkable woman who has become an integral part of the British monarchy.
On this special day, as Queen Camilla celebrates her 77th birthday, we take a moment to reflect on her remarkable journey and the significant contributions she has made as the Queen Consort of the United Kingdom. Born Camilla Rosemary Shand on the 17th July 1947, her story is one of resilience, dedication, and a deep commitment to public service.
Early Life and Education
On the 17th of July 1947, Major Bruce Shand and his beloved wife, The Hon. Rosalind Cubitt, welcomed their first child, Camilla Rosemary Shand. Coming from a family with a long lineage and ties to the royal family, she enjoyed an idyllic childhood alongside her sister Annabel and brother Mark. Queen Camilla’s early years were deeply influenced by her distinguished family background, including her great-great-grandmother, Alice Keppel, who was famously the mistress of King Edward VII, the great-great-grandfather of King Charles.
Growing up in the picturesque surroundings of East Sussex and the elegant neighbourhood of South Kensington, Queen Camilla’s upbringing was a blend of privilege and tradition. The Shand family’s home, The Laines, featured expansive gardens, a swimming pool, and even hosted the local Conservative Party Association summer fête, reflecting their social standing. A particularly charming memory from Queen Camilla’s childhood involved her learning to ride horses at Pony Club camps, where she won rosettes at local gymkhanas. This early love for animals has stayed with her throughout her life.
Her education began at Dumbrells School in Sussex and continued at Queen’s Gate School in South Kensington. She also attended Mon Fertile school in Switzerland and studied at the Institut Britannique in Paris. This varied education laid a strong foundation for her future roles, giving her a broad perspective and the skills needed for her public life.
Queen Camilla often speaks fondly of her childhood, describing it as “perfect in every way.” She fondly recalls how her father would read to her, instilling a lifelong love of books and learning. These early experiences not only shaped her character but also prepared her for the significant public role she would later undertake.
Marriage and Family Life
In 1965, Queen Camilla made her debut in London society, marking a significant event for young women of her standing. Eight years later, she married British Army officer Andrew Parker Bowles, with whom she had two children, Thomas Henry and Laura Rose. Despite the dissolution of their marriage in 1995, Queen Camilla’s role as a devoted mother remained steadfast.
The love story between Queen Camilla and King Charles is one of resilience and deep affection, spanning decades and overcoming numerous obstacles. They first met at a party in 1971, introduced by mutual friend Lucia Santa Cruz. The connection was immediate, and they shared a love for polo and the countryside. However, their paths diverged when Charles joined the Royal Navy, and Camilla married Andrew Parker Bowles in 1973, a decision that left Charles heartbroken
On 10 February 2005, Clarence House announced the engagement of Camilla Parker Bowles and the Prince of Wales. The engagement ring, a five-carat emerald-cut diamond flanked by three baguette diamonds on each side with an art deco design, is a family heirloom from the jewellery collection of Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother, King Charles’ grandmother. Allegedly, the diamond ring was originally a push present from King George VI after she gave birth to Queen Elizabeth II. This ring symbolised their enduring union and historical connection. The couple received the blessing of Queen Elizabeth II, the government, and the Church, despite initial controversies surrounding Charles’ future role as the supreme governor of the Church of England.
They married on 9 April 2005 in a civil ceremony at Windsor Guildhall, followed by a Service of Prayer and Dedication at St George’s Chapel, Windsor Castle. Their wedding was a joyous occasion, celebrated by 800 guests, and marked the beginning of Queen Camilla’s cherished role within the royal family. The couple’s happiness together is evident in their public engagements, where shared laughter and mutual support are always present.
Public Service and Charity Work
Since her marriage to King Charles in 2005, Queen Camilla has taken on an impressive array of charitable responsibilities, becoming Patron or President of over 100 charities. Her efforts span various causes, including health and well-being, literacy, the arts, animal welfare, and support for survivors of rape, sexual assault, and domestic violence.
A particularly poignant aspect of her charitable work is her dedication to osteoporosis awareness and support, inspired by the deaths of her mother and grandmother from the condition. She has served as President of the Royal Osteoporosis Society since 2001, actively supporting the charity since 1994. Queen Camilla’s personal connection to this cause has driven her to raise significant awareness and funds, making a substantial impact on the fight against osteoporosis.
Her Majesty’s contributions have been recognised through numerous honours. In 2012, she was appointed a Dame Grand Cross of the Royal Victorian Order (GCVO) by Queen Elizabeth II. She was later named a member of the Privy Council in 2016 and a Royal Lady of the Order of the Garter in 2022. Since the reign of King Charles III began, she has received further honours, including Lady of the Thistle in 2023 and Grand Master and First and Principal Dame Grand Cross of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire in 2024.
Queen Camilla’s dedication to her charitable causes and her unwavering support for numerous organisations highlight her compassionate nature and her commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of many. Her work continues to inspire and uplift communities across the United Kingdom and beyond.
The Coronation and Beyond
The coronation of Their Majesties King Charles III and Queen Camilla on 6 May 2023 at Westminster Abbey was a historic event, marking the first coronation in nearly 70 years. This grand ceremony not only underscored Queen Camilla’s integral role in the modern British monarchy but also celebrated the enduring bond between her and King Charles. The event was rich in tradition and attended by dignitaries and royals from around the world, highlighting its global significance.
Queen Camilla’s presence at the coronation symbolised her unwavering support and partnership with King Charles. The ceremony featured traditional rituals, including the anointing and crowning, steeped in centuries-old customs passed down through generations.
As we celebrate Queen Camilla’s 77th birthday, we honour not just her life but her unwavering dedication to service and the countless lives she has touched through her charitable endeavours. Her journey from Camilla Shand to Queen Consort is a testament to her strength, compassion, and enduring commitment to the United Kingdom.
Queen Camilla’s Birthday 2024
Queen Camilla’s 77th birthday is set to be marked by a significant event in the British political calendar: the State Opening of Parliament on 17 July 2024. This occasion holds special importance as Her Majesty is expected to accompany King Charles to the event. Even if The King opts to send Counsellors of State in his place, it is likely that Queen Camilla will attend, given her role as a counsellor.
The last State Opening of Parliament, held in November 2023, saw Queen Camilla adorned with the iconic Diamond Diadem tiara. This piece of jewellery, often associated with the late Queen Elizabeth II, is anticipated to make another appearance. Tobias Kormind, co-founder and MD of 77 Diamonds, explained why this tiara holds such significance:
“The Diamond Diadem tiara is in many people’s minds the jewel most closely associated with the late Queen. One of the most instantly recognisable tiaras of the British monarchy, it is most closely linked with the late Queen Elizabeth II, because she wore it on numerous occasions including en route to her Coronation in 1953, to most State Openings of Parliament and for photographs such as those used for coinage, banknotes and postage stamps – which explains why it’s instantly recognisable.”
As we celebrate Queen Camilla’s 77th birthday, we honour not just her life but her unwavering dedication to service and the countless lives she has touched through her charitable endeavours. Her journey from Camilla Shand to Queen Consort is a testament to her strength, compassion, and enduring commitment to the United Kingdom.
