David Armstrong-Jones, the second Earl of Snowdon, was spotted cycling home from Buckingham Palace after attending King Charles III’s pre-Christmas lunch on Tuesday, adding an unexpectedly active twist to the Royal Family’s annual festive gathering.
Embed from Getty ImagesThe 64-year-old royal, son of Princess Margaret and Antony Armstrong-Jones, was photographed leaving the palace gates on two wheels, complete with helmet and reflective safety gear. Known for his love of cycling – he previously told The Telegraph that he commutes by bike across London daily – the Earl opted for a healthy and environmentally friendly departure while other members of the family drove home.
The pre-Christmas lunch, traditionally hosted by the monarch at Buckingham Palace, brings together senior royals for an intimate meal ahead of the festive season. It serves as both a family reunion and a subtle display of royal hierarchy, with attendance carefully curated to reflect the working and extended members of the Royal Family. Guests typically include the Prince and Princess of Wales with their children, the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh, and other close relatives, providing a rare glimpse into family life behind palace walls.
This year, the gathering was notable for the absence of Prince Andrew, who was not present amid continuing controversy surrounding his past associations and legal entanglements. While he has maintained a low profile in recent years, his absence contrasted sharply with the younger generation’s active participation, including Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie, who were seen arriving together for the lunch. The optics highlighted the careful distinctions the Royal Family continues to make between individual accountability and the inclusion of their children.
Returning to his two-wheeled transport, the Earl of Snowdon’s ride underscored both his personal independence and his distinctive approach to royal life. Even amid the formalities of Buckingham Palace, the Earl has carved a niche as a figure who blends tradition with a modern, practical lifestyle – in this case, pedalling home after a royal gathering.
