The British royal family is known for its devotion to centuries-old protocols, yet their Christmas traditions can surprise anyone. Behind closed doors, the monarchs weigh their guests after the holiday lunch and exchange the silliest little trinkets with one another.
A Train Journey
For many years, Queen Elizabeth II preferred to travel to her Christmas celebrations in Sandringham by train rather than by private car. She would arrive from London at King’s Lynn station in Norfolk in a specially reserved carriage.
Match of the Day
As children, Prince William and Prince Harry loved playing traditional Christmas football at the Sandringham estate alongside members of the royal staff. Often, residents from the nearby Castle Rising would join in on the fun.
Glamorous Attire
By tradition, everyone must dress in formal wear for the Christmas Eve family dinner: men in tuxedos and women in long evening gowns.
Funny Gifts
Despite their wealth, it is not customary for the royal family to give expensive or extravagant gifts at Christmas. Instead, there is an unspoken rule: gifts should be cheap and as funny as possible. For example, Prince Harry once gave Queen Elizabeth II a mechanical fish that sticks to the wall and sings. The Queen was reportedly delighted and hung it at Balmoral. Prince William once gave his grandmother slippers featuring her own face.
Weighing Before and After Dinner
One of the most unusual traditions, introduced by King Edward VII, requires each guest to weigh themselves on antique scales before and after the holiday meal. Why? It is believed that if a guest gains weight (about 3 pounds or 1.5 kg), it means they truly enjoyed the feast and the host was hospitable.
Christmas Mail
The first Christmas cards sent by the royal family were delivered in 1843 after the introduction of the “penny post” service. The cards typically featured a photograph of the royals and a brief holiday greeting.
