The British royal family has a rich history, filled with memorable moments that capture the essence of youth and growth. The influence of Elizabeth II’s formative years on the royal family. Over the decades, so many of our alumni have left their indelible imprint on the world during their teenage years. This post looks at these royals’ major accomplishments and actions during their formative years, using their example as a learning opportunity.
This picture from 1942 shows the young Elizabeth, just 16 at the time, cycling in Windsor around Royal Lodge where she now lives. Together with her sister Princess Margaret, the two took refuge at Windsor over the course of the Second World War for security and protection. Elizabeth wore a chic all-black ensemble and large-brimmed, pearl-accented hat. Her bike ride became a shining beacon of routine in the middle of a conflicting war zone.
In 1978, Prince Edward competed at the prestigious Badminton Horse Trials in South Gloucestershire. At that age, he was only 14 years old. This event was a watershed moment in his young life. He began to take to his new royal duties and step into the public eye.
Peter’s visit from 1991, when 13-year-old Peter Phillips came to stay with his grandmother, The Queen. He was then at Port Regis Prep School in Dorset. Our visit provided a poignant window into the deep family connections that permeate the royal household. It was a wonderful reminder of just how important family ties are, even for the royal family.
As an 18-year-old student at the Gordonstoun School in Scotland, Prince Philip was very different from the other students in 1939. His experience at this institution refined his personality. It also established the basis for his future standing as the royal family’s moral center.
As early as 1962, Prince Charles—then only 14 years old—was displaying an artistic flair for style. This was evident in an official portrait taken during her last full year as First Lady. This momentary flash of his fiery character foreshadowed the exceptional leadership he would go on to show during his life.
At that moment in 1995, Zara Tindall was only 14 years old. Immediately, she built a reputation as a skilled equestrian, performing her skill throughout the royal household. Her talent and commitment to this burgeoning sport would eventually make her a member of the pantheon of greats in equestrian circles.
When Prince Harry was a teen, he was sent to Eton College. He deftly juggled his scholarly endeavors with the demands of being a member of the royal family. It was a tumultuous era filled with challenges and promise that molded his rebellious spirit.
Lady Gabriella Windsor, daughter of Prince Michael and Princess Michael of Kent, shared a moment with The Queen and senior royals on the balcony of Buckingham Palace during Trooping the Colour. This moment gave a glimpse into the traditions and pride of royal ceremonies.
In June of 1999, Prince William hit an exciting new milestone. On his 17th birthday, he passed his driving test in Cirencester, Gloucestershire. Reaching this milestone was just one of many breakthroughs on the road to independence for him as he began to navigate adulthood.
Kate Middleton’s gap year in 2001 led her to spend ten weeks on a Raleigh International Expedition trip to Patagonia in Chile. This experience not only broadened her horizons but provided her with invaluable life lessons that would influence her future endeavors.
Princess Anne, at 17 years old in 1968, showcased her fashion sense dressed in a chic silk tunic and statement earrings. As a youth, her style mirrored her personality—she was known for bold colors and prints—and her confidence would continue into her adult life.
Prior to meeting Prince Charles, Princess Diana spent time working at a nursery school in her late teen years. This experience would begin to shape her deeply compassionate spirit, focus on serving others, and devotion to bridging divides. Hallmarks that would come to characterize her legacy.
Meghan Markle fully embraced her artistic side during her teenage years. She starred in many musicals, and once even acted opposite fellow actress and singer Katharine McPhee. Her flair for the arts revealed her creativity, while her love for performance helped her stand out with her passion.
