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Queen Elizabeth II

The Queen created an RAF no-fly zone over the Castle of Mey to ensure her mother could enjoy a peaceful midday snooze

A letter from the Ministry of Defence has revealed that The Queen requested military chiefs create a no-fly zone so The Queen Mother could enjoy peaceful afternoon naps.

The Queen’s mother would spend at least three weeks each year at her Scottish holiday home, the Castle of Mey in Caithness. During this time, she often enjoyed a midday nap, but found herself disturbed by the noise around the castle due to low-flying RAF jets.

Official UK Armed Forces records dating back as far as 1993 reveal that Military chiefs agreed to create a no-fly zone around the Castle of Mey so that the Queen Mother could enjoy peaceful naps during her stay.

A Ministry of Defence letter at the time is reported to have said: “While we can give no guarantee that aircraft are not seen in the vicinity, this should ensure that Her Majesty is not disturbed.”

The letter added: “Similar arrangements can be made for future periods when the Queen Mother is in residence. I understand that this is usually during the month of August.”

Previously owned by both The Queen and The Queen Mother between 1952 and 1996. The Castle and Gardens of Mey are now owned by registered Scottish charity, The Queen Elizabeth Castle of Mey Trust. The current trustee being The Prince’s Foundation.

Although currently closed due to Covid restrictions, the castle and gardens are usually open to the public.

About author

Susan is an Actress, Vocalist, Voice-over artist and Writer. She graduated from the University of Salford with a BA (HONS) Music Degree and spent some time travelling around Europe with various choirs, during which time she also performed in the opening ceremony of the 2002 Manchester Commonwealth Games before pursuing her acting and writing career.