Explosive Revelations from Princess Diana’s Butler Claim Buckingham Palace is a ‘Gin Palace’

Explosive Revelations from Princess Diana’s Butler Claim Buckingham Palace is a ‘Gin Palace’

In a candid new book, Princess Diana’s former butler Paul Burrell describes Buckingham Palace as the ‘gin palace,’ asserting that drinks flowed freely within its opulent walls. Burrell, who served the royal household for 11 years before transitioning to Kensington Palace, has penned the book entitled ‘The Royal Insider,’ revealing intriguing details about the palace’s drinking culture.

According to Burrell, large quantities of gin were consumed each week, stating, ‘some legitimately, some not.’ He commented on the various clever methods used by palace staff to sneak alcohol into the residence for private parties.

Burrell recounted, ‘I quickly became familiar with the ingenious ways in which the household smuggled booze for their soirées.’ He recalled instances where he was instructed by senior staff to empty out a screw-top tonic water bottle, only to refill it with gin to supply royal staff members for festivities held in their private quarters.

Incognito Drinking Tools

In an amusing revelation, Burrell mentioned that footmen often transported Russell Hobbs electric kettles around the palace. However, these kettles were not filled with water but rather with the beloved gin. This anecdote highlights the lengths to which palace staff went to conceal their drinking habits.

Burrell’s observations shed light on an unspoken reality: the drinking culture extended beyond just the staff. Reports indicate that members of the royal family also indulged behind closed doors, engaging in their own favored libations.

Royal Drinking Traditions

Royal experts discussed how it was widely known that the Queen Mother had her own routine involving alcohol. William Shawcross, her biographer, revealed that she frequently enjoyed a gin and Dubonnet at noon, followed by red wine at lunch, a martini in the evening, and pink champagne after dinner. This established a sophisticated tradition of imbibing within the royal family.

Queen Elizabeth II had a penchant for a gin and Dubonnet, her favorite cocktail. Princess Margaret reportedly favored Famous Grouse whiskey, while contemporary royal family members like Princess Catherine have also been linked to evening gin and tonics. Meghan Markle even named her lifestyle blog ‘The Tig’ after her favorite wine, Tignanello.

Modern Royals and Their Preferences

In 2021, a family friend disclosed that Prince William has a notable routine where he brings his wife, Kate Middleton, a classic gin and tonic after they have put their children to bed. This small act of care reflects their strong partnership.

While Kate Middleton often enjoys gin, she has a sweet side as well. British royal expert Hilary Fordwich mentioned that the Princess enjoys vodka, passion fruit, and raspberry liqueur — much sweeter than the drinks favored by others. Often, these sweeter concoctions are topped off with a splash of champagne, a nod to her wedding celebration with Prince William.

King Charles and His Habits

Even King Charles, who is known for leading a healthy lifestyle, is not averse to a good drink. Valentine Low, author of ‘Power and the Palace,’ shared anecdotes from government minister Michael Gove, who recounted a memorable trip on the royal train with Charles. During their conversation over a nightcap, he was offered a fine malt whiskey, specifically Laphroaig, showcasing the King’s appreciation for quality beverages.

Fordwich also pointed out that Charles is considered a lighter drinker compared to others in his family. Often, he meticulously prepares a martini using equal parts gin and vermouth for the perfect blend. His late mother’s drinking preference, which often mirrored the Queen Mother’s, included a Dubonnet and gin before lunch, followed by wine with meals and, later in the evening, dry martinis and champagne.

Reports suggest that Queen Elizabeth II particularly enjoyed Bollinger champagne, which has held a royal warrant since 1884. In contrast, her husband Prince Philip often opted for beer at state banquets, favoring Boddingtons Bitter for its straightforward appeal.

Averages and Anomalies

The royal family has generally demonstrated a capacity to handle their alcohol, although there are exceptions. Prince William, for instance, has garnered the playful nickname ‘One Pint Willy,’ highlighting his lower alcohol tolerance compared to his more robust family members.

The nickname was humorously attributed to him by Mike Tindall, a former rugby player and husband of William’s cousin, Zara. Tindall also revealed on a podcast that in his younger, clubbing days, William had more stamina and sampled various drinks, including kamikaze shots that combine vodka, lime juice, and triple sec.

Princess Diana is remembered as one of the more moderate drinkers in the family, often enjoying white wine such as Chablis and peach Bellinis at social gatherings, which reflected her personal preferences.

Shifting Attitudes and Lifestyles

In recent years, Prince Harry has transformed his lifestyle following his marriage. He once had a reputation for indulging in vodka Red Bull chasers but reportedly began his day with green juice now. This marked shift towards health and mindfulness contrasts with the revelry often associated with royal parties.

As unveiled by Burrell’s revelations and expert opinions, the royal drinking culture—a mix of tradition and modern preferences—reveals a fascinating aspect of life within the palace walls.

A New Perspective on Royal Habits

These insights into the royal family’s drinking habits provide us with a unique perspective on their lives. They show that beneath the grandeur often associated with the monarchy, members of the royal family carry their human qualities—routine, tradition, and a shared love for certain libations that mirror the society they represent.