THE Queen could move to Windsor Castle permanently to be closer to Prince Philip, a royal insider has claimed.
The Duke of Edinburgh was laid to rest in the Royal vault at Windsor Chapel yesterday after a poignant ceremony attended by 30 of his closest family members and friends.
Read our Prince Philip funeral live blog for the latest updates
Speaking to the Daily Express, the source claimed Her Majesty now feels “most comfortable” at Windsor Castle and could remain there for the foreseeable future.
Although The Queen and Prince Philip used to stay in Windsor for weekends, the royal couple spent most of lockdown in their second home and away from their official residence Buckingham Palace.
Ahead of her 95th birthday next week, a source told the paper: “The kindest thing to do is to allow her to live where she feels most comfortable.”
The Queen is expected to return to royal engagements on April 22 – the day after her birthday – once the two-week period of mourning ends.
However, one aide claimed Her Majesty will return to Buckingham Palace once coronavirus restrictions are lifted – but were reportedly reluctant to confirm whether it would still be The Queen’s main residence.
They said: “Buckingham Palace will continue to be her primary place of work.”
The insider told The Express that Windsor is “likely” that The Queen would spend most of her time in Windsor – close to Philip’s resting place – as senior working royals start taking on more work.
Last week, it was reported that The Queen will “not walk alone” after Philip’s death and that members of the Royal Family will accompany her on future public engagements.
One source told the Daily Mail: “The Duke of Edinburgh is irreplaceable and the Queen’s dedication to duty is undiminished.
“But senior officials and members of the family have long had an eye on ensuring she is more supported in the future and it seems sensible to start employing this now.”
The Queen is set to return to work after Philip’s funeral and will oversee the state opening of Parliament next month.
Sources said the hardworking monarch still plans to attend the ceremonial event and deliver her annual Queen’s Speech to MPs on May 11, accompanied by her son Charles.
In more Royal Family news, Princes William & Harry ‘relaxed in moment of unity’ as they chatted at Philip’s funeral, a body language expert said.
And this is the adorable nickname Prince Philip’s mum used in loving letters to the Duke revealed – and it will melt your heart.
Plus the Royal Family paid heartwarming tribute to Prince Philip as they revealed the ‘unique touches’ Duke planned for his funeral
