Princess Margaret, known for her distinctive preferences and lively personality, was reportedly not a fan of champagne, favoring gin and tonic at lunchtime and whisky and soda in the evening instead. Her long-time lady-in-waiting and traveling companion recalled that it was customary to inform hosts well in advance about the princess’s likes and dislikes, which included a particular avoidance of champagne.

Traveling with Princess Margaret offered a blend of glamour and unpredictability. Though official visits were meticulously arranged to avoid mishaps, the princess’s fondness for alcohol occasionally proved challenging. On a visit to New Orleans during Mardi Gras, for example, both Princess Margaret and her maid indulged in the festive atmosphere and rum available throughout the day. This led to the maid becoming incapacitated and unable to prepare a bath for the princess. Despite this, Princess Margaret reportedly showed kindness and concern for her aide rather than frustration.

The following day posed further difficulties when Princess Margaret declined to attend a visit to an historic house that had been specially prepared for her by its owner. The princess’s excuse of a headache forced her lady-in-waiting to break the news, which deeply disappointed the homeowner. After the experience, the group chose not to return to Mardi Gras events.

Long flights during official tours could also be demanding. On a journey to Australia with a stopover in Singapore, Princess Margaret was reluctant to sleep on the overnight leg and instead frequented the onboard bar, smoking and drinking. This lack of rest affected her mood upon arrival in Canberra, where she initially bypassed a waiting crowd of Girl Guides before being persuaded by her attendant to offer a greeting.

Princess Margaret’s appreciation for cultural events was also noted, particularly her interest in avant-garde productions at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Despite occasional discomfort with some performances, she adhered to the protocols expected of her, even sitting through what was described as an unpleasant show involving actors speaking through wheelie bins.

During a shooting weekend at Balmoral Castle in August 1990, an incident involving a chair believed to have belonged to Queen Victoria drew criticism from the princess. She unexpectedly reprimanded her lady-in-waiting for sitting in the chair, highlighting the royal attention to historical significance and protocol.

That same weekend saw Princess Diana present with her sons, William and Harry, along with other family members including Sarah Ferguson and her daughters, and David Linley. The gathering was described as relaxed and family-oriented, with the children engaged in activities such as pony riding and sports car outings.

A notable moment occurred when the queen was overheard admonishing a young Prince William, then about eight years old, after he returned alone from a pony ride without informing anyone. The concern expressed was attributed to the potential danger of his unaccompanied return and the resulting distress caused to those searching for him.

Royal Lodge, once the residence of the Queen Mother and later Andrew Mountbatten Windsor, was depicted as a setting of understated comfort and warmth. Guests attending seasonal visits there recalled the Queen Mother’s jovial spirit and appreciation for informal hospitality. The residence was described as modest and slightly worn, with simple but homely accommodations. Tea served in the drawing room included a variety of traditional fare, complemented by the Queen Mother’s convivial presence, often clad in a crinoline dress with a gin and Dubonnet in hand.

These anecdotes offer insight into the personal aspects of royal life, reflecting both the privileges and occasional challenges experienced by members of the British royal family and their close associates.