King Charles Comes Face-to-Face with an Infamously Mischievous Pony as He Begins Summer Stay at Balmoral Castle

King Charles Embraces Summer at Balmoral Castle with Mischievous Pony Encounter

As the warm weather ushers in the summer season, King Charles kickstarts his annual summer stay at Balmoral Castle in Scotland. The royal retreat at Balmoral Castle began with a customary welcome ceremony, marking the commencement of the monarch’s summer residence. Notably, this event also signified a delightful reunion between King Charles and a mischievous yet beloved character at the castle – Corporal Cruachan IV, a Shetland pony and the mascot of the Royal Regiment of Scotland.

During the welcome ceremony on August 18, 2025, King Charles, donning a traditional kilt, graciously inspected troops from Balaklava Company, 5th Battalion of the Royal Regiment of Scotland. Amidst the pomp and formalities, the King shared a few moments with Corporal Cruachan IV, engaging in light-hearted exchanges with the pony’s handler. Unlike his previous antics, the pony behaved impeccably, receiving a gentle pat on the nose from the sovereign before the ceremony progressed.

Although Corporal Cruachan IV has maintained decorum in recent years, he garnered notoriety for his playful and attention-grabbing antics during the reign of Queen Elizabeth. Notable incidents include attempting to nibble on flowers held by the Queen at Stirling Castle in 2017 and causing a stir by relieving himself during a ceremonial welcome at Balmoral Castle the following year. Such playful gestures became emblematic of Cruachan’s spirited nature in the presence of royalty.

The historic Balmoral Castle holds significant importance to the British royal family, with its picturesque landscapes and serene surroundings offering a respite for generations of royals. Originally acquired by Queen Victoria’s consort, Prince Albert, in 1845, the castle has been a cherished summer retreat for the royal family. The late Queen Elizabeth held a deep affection for Balmoral, as it witnessed pivotal moments in her life, including Prince Philip’s proposal in 1946 and idyllic summers with her family.

While Balmoral provides a sanctuary away from the public eye, it remains a place of work and reflection for King Charles. Engaging with diplomatic papers delivered in the iconic “red boxes” and attending to official duties, the monarch blends leisure with responsibilities during his summer sojourn. The royal family is set to convene at Balmoral in the upcoming weeks, ensuring moments of togetherness and relaxation amidst the tranquil Scottish Highlands.

Despite the joyous occasions that transpire at Balmoral, the castle also holds somber memories, notably marked by the passing of Queen Elizabeth in 2022. Last year, King Charles commemorated the first anniversary of his mother’s demise and his ascension to the throne at Balmoral, underscoring the bittersweet nature of the royal abode.

Looking ahead, Prince William and Kate Middleton are anticipated to visit Scotland with their children, further continuing the royal tradition of summer escapades in the enchanting environs of Balmoral. The transition to Forest Lodge in Windsor signifies a new chapter for the Prince and Princess of Wales, symbolizing a lasting abode for their growing family beyond the ephemeral confines of earlier residences.

In essence, the commencement of King Charles’s summer at Balmoral Castle epitomizes a harmonious blend of tradition, family ties, and cherished memories against the backdrop of Scotland’s idyllic landscapes. With each summer retreat, the royal family forges enduring connections with history and heritage at the heart of Balmoral’s timeless allure.