Queen Elizabeth II was apparently thrilled to be told she looked like another very well known royal.
Former First Minister of Scotland, Nicola Sturgeon, recalled that she once told the late Queen of the resemblance she saw with one of her great-granddaughters, Princess Charlotte.
And she recalled that Elizabeth II was very happy with the comparison, beaming with pride as it was made.
The recollection is including in a new book about Queen Elizabeth II, by Hugo Vickers.
Nicola Sturgeon, who resigned as First Minister in 2024, had been at Queen Elizabeth’s side in 2015 on an historic day for the Monarchy. Elizabeth II chose to spend September 9 that year in Scotland as she became the longest reigning Monarch in British history.
The first images of Elizabeth II as the record breaking Queen came as she travelled by train through Scotland where she was due to open a new station.
She later made a famous speech touching on the moment that she overtook Queen Victoria who had held the record for longest reign until then. Nicola Sturgeon was among those listening as Elizabeth II said ”many, including you First Minister, have also kindly noted another significance attaching to today, although it is not one to which I have ever aspired. Inevitably, a long life can pass by many milestones. My own is no exception. But I thank you all and the many others at home and overseas for your touching messages of great kindness.”
The then First Minister of Scotland had earlier said ”we are privileged ma’am that you have chosen to mark today’s milestone here. All of us are delighted to be able to share some of this special day with you. For those watching from around the world let me say, on their behalf ma’am a simple but heartfelt thank you.”
Queen Elizabeth II later left the station at Tweedbank to return to Balmoral where she spent the evening with Prince Philip and other members of the Royal Family including Kate and her then baby daughter, Princess Charlotte.
The similarity between Charlotte, who turns 11 in May, and her great grandmother as a girl has been noted many times. Another of Elizabeth II’s relatives was often compared to her as well. Lady Sarah Chatto, only daughter of Princess Margaret, also bore a striking similarity to Elizabeth II as a child.
As a youngster herself, Elizabeth II was often compared in looks to her grandmother, Queen Mary, who she resembled as she got older, too. Similarities were also seen with Queen Mary’s only daughter, Princess Mary, who was aunt to Elizabeth II.
