Queen Elizabeth II Shares a Few Laughs—And a Few Complaints—About Her Royal Ride
For the first time in decades, the Queen decided to let herself be heard on a BBC documentary. In a clip that floated onto the screen, the 91‑year‑old remarked that her beloved Gold State Coach was “horrible” and “not very comfortable.” Who knew a queen could be so candid?
Comfort? Not Exactly
- Bushed out on leather, the coach has been getting the royal treatment since George IV’s coronation in 1821.
- Built in the 18th century, it’s been the crown’s ride for Jubilee celebrations and other state affairs.
- Despite that, the Queen said: “It’s only sprung on leather.”
Talking Crowns
She also pulled back the curtain on the Crown Jewels:
“There are some disadvantages to the crowns, but otherwise they’re…quite important things.”
The Glory of 1953
The documentary, titled The Coronation, darts through the historic night of 2 June 1953 when a young Queen was crowned after her father’s death. She’s the world’s longest‑reigning monarch and the oldest head of state, so watching her on camera feels oddly intimate.
One Coronation, Two Life Journeys
In a whisper of humor:
“I’ve seen one coronation and been the recipient in the other, which is pretty remarkable.”
She added a dose of wisdom:
“It’s sort of, I suppose, the beginning of one’s life really, as a sovereign.”
A Touch of Childhood Mischief
When the camera rolled back to show her kids—Prince Charles and Princess Anne—playing with her royal robe in 1953, the Queen’s expression shifted to a protective snort. Alastair Bruce praised it as “such fun for the children!” The Queen gently countered: “Not what they’re meant to do.”
All in all, it’s a glimpse of the regal life: polished, historically rooted, and sprinkled with the occasional laugh.
