On June 3, 2026, Queen Camilla welcomed a group of seriously ill children and their families to Clarence House for a delightful tea party and treasure hunt, organised in collaboration with the charity Dreams and Wishes. This initiative has been dedicated to creating joyful experiences for children facing life-threatening illnesses since its inception in 2011.
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The festive occasion took a royal turn as the children arrived in a horse-drawn carriage, making their way along The Mall from the Royal Mews. Upon arrival, they were greeted by the Grenadier Guards, who stood proudly in their tall bearskin hats, providing a truly majestic atmosphere for the event held at the official residence of Queen Camilla and King Charles.
Once inside, the children were treated to an array of delicious, personalised sweet treats, including cookies adorned with their names written in icing. Such thoughtful touches set the tone for an engaging afternoon that combined the elegance of royal tradition with the warmth of a family-friendly celebration.
Among the many highlights was the moment when Queen Camilla interacted directly with the children. In a touching display of encouragement, she honoured a young boy named Rupert, aged seven, by pinning a medal of commendation he had brought along for merit in scouting. Rupert’s mother, Hannah Williams, shared her son’s excitement, revealing that he had been inquiring whether the Queen had a dragon in her castle, showcasing his youthful imagination during this once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Notably, the treasure hunt was themed around a whimsical quest, where the children were tasked with finding treasures that had supposedly been stolen by a fictional evil wizard. Dressed charmingly, little Maria, aged six, was among those who led the treasure hunt as she donned a purple princess dress. At the conclusion of their adventure, each child was rewarded with a goodie bag and a large chocolate coin, presented by the Grenadier Guards, further enhancing the day’s excitement.
As the event drew to a close, Queen Camilla made a point to personally thank each child, offering hugs and kisses that made the day even more special for the attendees. Additionally, she expressed her gratitude to Tony Curtis, the CEO of Dreams and Wishes, who surprised her with a bottle of gin that he noted was a favourite of King Charles.
Curtis highlighted Queen Camilla’s strong involvement with the charity, noting her annual correspondence since its foundation, which speaks volumes about her commitment to supporting children in need. “She is fantastic, especially how she spends so much time chatting to the children and the parents,” he stated, encapsulating the warmth and compassion she displayed throughout the event.
This wasn’t the Queen’s first experience with Dreams and Wishes; she had hosted a similar afternoon tea event back in 2013 when she held the title of Duchess of Cornwall. Her enduring support for charities assisting children highlights her dedication to improving the lives of young people facing significant challenges.
Beyond Dreams and Wishes, Queen Camilla also supports the Helen & Douglas House children’s hospice and Roald Dahl’s Marvellous Children’s Charity, both of which provide crucial services to families with seriously ill children. In her role as patron, she continues to inspire hope and joy within the community, creating cherished memories for those touched by adversity.
The tea party at Clarence House was a beautiful blend of royal charm and heartfelt connection, illustrating once more the monarchy’s commitment to fostering goodwill and support for vulnerable segments of society. For the children and families who attended, it was a day to remember, filled with laughter, joy, and the splendor of a royal occasion.