Why Queen Camilla won’t be seen in public for weeks

Queen Camilla has quietly stepped back from the royal spotlight this summer – and she won’t be seen at public engagements again for several weeks.

The 78-year-old Queen Consort has now begun her annual summer break, traditionally spent alongside King Charles in Scotland. While His Majesty is already in the Highlands – understood to be staying at the Castle of Mey, once the Queen Mother’s beloved residence – Camilla is expected to join him at Balmoral in the coming days.

Although the monarch continues to receive red boxes and government briefings during this time, the royal diary clears out for August, with public appearances paused until early autumn.

A royal aide previously described this period as “vital breathing space” for the King and Queen following a year of intense public scrutiny and duty.

This quieter spell is in keeping with past royal tradition. Queen Elizabeth II would often remain at Balmoral until early September, and the current royal couple appear to be following a similar pattern.

Despite her break from public view, Camilla has become one of the most active senior royals, undertaking more than 230 engagements last year. From animal welfare campaigns to literacy initiatives, the Queen has steadily built a strong portfolio of patronages and public work.

And while she won’t be photographed for a few weeks, it’s likely that Queen Camilla will be spotted at Crathie Kirk, the church the royal family attends while in Scotland, or walking the Balmoral estate with her rescue dogs, Bluebell and Beth.

For now, she’s expected to enjoy a few weeks of privacy and calm – before the royal machine picks up pace again in September.