QUEEN CAMILLA WELCOMES SERIOUSLY ILL CHILDREN TO ROYAL CHRISTMAS PARTY AT CLARENCE HOUSE

Queen Camilla has once again brought heartwarming Christmas cheer to some of the UK’s most vulnerable children, hosting her 20th annual festive celebration at Clarence House, complete with Santa Claus, real reindeer, and a precious slice of royal history.

The Queen warmly welcomed seriously-ill youngsters supported by Helen & Douglas House in Oxfordshire and Roald Dahl’s Marvellous Children’s Charity, continuing a tradition she began two decades ago. For the children and their families, the royal invite is regarded as one of the most magical events of the festive season, and this year’s celebration was no exception.

As the children arrived, they were greeted by Christmas music, decorations, and a room filled with twinkling lights. But the biggest surprise came when Her Majesty gathered the group around the grand tree, encouraging them to help her hang baubles, ribbons, and ornaments. Camilla smiled as every child proudly added a decoration of their own, declaring that with the tree complete, “Christmas has started.”

The day’s excitement grew when Santa Claus himself appeared at the foot of the grand staircase, accompanied by two reindeer waiting outside in the courtyard. He presented the Queen with two squeaky dog toys for her beloved rescue terriers, Bluebell and Beth.
“There is nothing you can buy for the Queen,” Santa joked warmly, explaining the gifts were chosen by Mrs Claus especially for the royal pets.

But the biggest thrill of the day involved something truly unique: Queen Victoria’s historic State Sleigh, a priceless piece of royal heritage. Her Majesty invited the children to climb aboard as she carefully guided them through the beautifully restored sleigh, brought out of the Royal Mews especially for the occasion. The youngsters could barely contain their excitement as they posed for photos, many of them beaming with delight at a moment few outside the Royal Family have ever experienced.

One parent described the gesture as “a memory our family will treasure forever,” adding that for children with life-limiting conditions, events like this offer a much-needed escape from hospital routines and daily challenges.

Queen Camilla threw a festive party at Clarence House – Credit: PA

The Queen has long been a champion of both charities in attendance. Helen & Douglas House, the world’s first children’s hospice, provides support for families coping with life-shortening conditions. Roald Dahl’s Marvellous Children’s Charity funds specialist nurses across the UK who care for seriously ill children. Camilla has supported both organisations for many years, often speaking of the bravery of the young people they assist.

A Clarence House spokesperson said the Queen is “deeply committed to continuing this cherished Christmas tradition,” which brings joy not only to the children but to Her Majesty herself.

With warm smiles, festive magic, and a touch of royal history, Queen Camilla once again ensured that Christmas began in the most heartwarming way possible, with love, generosity, and unforgettable memories.