Holidaymakers visiting Windsor Castle this week got a special perk with their £11.50 entrance fee – an unusual royal guide in the form of the Prince of Wales himself.
The heir to the British throne mingled with the surprised tourists, posing for pictures and even chatting in French and German to European visitors.
Americans who had travelled thousands of miles to sightsee in the UK were stunned to have a chance to meet a member of the royal family in the flesh. "He's made our trip," said a pair of Seattle honeymooners. One of the couple's countrymen from Minnesota declared: "That was quite a shock."
But his stint as a tour guide doesn't mean Charles has quit his more familiar role. The Prince was accompanied by 60 British tourist industry executives, as the appearance was aimed to help boost UK tourism.
Meanwhile, Charles bid farewell to his longtime servant Michael Fawcett with an exclusive sending off party in his honour on Wednesday. Joined by his companion Camilla Parker Bowles, the Prince hosted the occasion in his private study at St James's Palace.
Mr Fawcett, who is aiding his former boss with the refurbishment of Clarence House, stepped down as Charles' personal consultant in March after the release of a controversial internal inquiry report on the royal household.
Photo: © Alphapress.com
Photo: © Alphapress.com
