Prince Edward’s former girlfriend, Ruthie Henshall, a renowned West End actress, has shared insights into her encounter with the Royal Family’s well-known ‘Balmoral test’. Ruthie, aged 59, recently published her memoir titled “The Showgirl and the Prince,” unfolding her romance with the prince.
The autobiography delves into the secretive initiation of Edward and Ruthie’s relationship, from their visits to Buckingham Palace to tea sessions at Windsor with the late Queen Elizabeth. Within the book, the actress reveals the inner workings of what occurs when a royal member invites a partner to Balmoral, known as the challenging ‘Balmoral test’.
The Balmoral test is widely recognized as a traditional assessment for potential royal companions. Notable past guests have included Princess Diana in 1980, the Princess of Wales in 2009 before marrying Prince William, and Meghan Markle in 2018.
During an episode of HELLO!’s A Right Royal Podcast, Henshall disclosed her unexpected but luxurious experience at the Scottish estate, complete with personalized services, notably her own maid. Despite the grandeur of the visit, she noted the family’s casual demeanor and shared moments of outdoor gatherings devoid of security personnel.
Henshall mentioned King Charles, then the Prince of Wales, taking charge of hosting duties and serving potent drinks to set a jovial atmosphere. The weekend at the royal Scottish estate demands guests to grasp royal etiquette, maintain engaging conversations, and seamlessly transition from casual to formal attire as per the family’s dynamic lifestyle and changing schedules.
The Balmoral Test remains a legendary tradition within royal circles, as depicted in various media, including the Netflix series The Crown. Royal expert Omid Scobie described the test as more of a ‘royal initiation,’ emphasizing the necessity for guests to adhere to social etiquette, be well-versed in royal protocol, and adapt swiftly to diverse situations during their stay at the queen’s private residence.
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