You could be forgiven for thinking the pretty brunette mingling with fellow freshers at Newcastle University this week was just another student.It was in fact the Queen's granddaughter, Princess Eugenie.
Wearing Converse trainers and a purple fringe bag slung over the shoulder, the 19-year-old's only concession to her royal status was the bodyguard discreetly waiting in the background. If she was feeling apprehensive about her first day at uni, Eugenie certainly didn’t show it as she smiled broadly on her way into an induction seminar.
But then, luckily for the princess, she had a close friend from Marlborough College to hold on to – literally - for support. Eugenie will be studying at Newcastle for the next three years working towards a combined BA in English, history of art and politics. During that time she will be staying in her own en-suite bedroom, featuring a single bed, wardrobe, chest of drawers and desk, and she'll be sharing a kitchen and lounge area with five other students.
At least unpacking her boxes is one ordeal Prince Andrew's daughter won't have to go through. While she was at the Toronto Film Festival with her mum, palace staff headed from Windsor to the north east where they unloaded her things at the £96-a-week residence. No doubt the princess will be looking forward to experiencing student nights out.
"There's a bar on every corner in Newcastle," one student said. "Most students sample every one during their degree. "One of the most popular areas of the city is the Bigg Market known for its student bars and happy hours.
