A Royal Christmas

Thanks to the detailed chronology and prodigious writing about the Royal Family, we have a mirror into how holidays attain their ritualist power [...] and handsome proof of how our Christmases [...] are connected to kings and queens more than we might realize. 

Jef Rouner, Houston Chronicle

Hardback, 210 x 172 mm, 150 colour illustrations
ISBN 978 1 909741 56 0

German rights sold

A Royal Christmas is the first official publication to explore the fascinating Christmas traditions of royalty past and present. Drawing on many previously unpublished objects and images from the Collection, this highly visual book offers insight into the influence and charm of royal festivities.

The book details the history of the royal broadcast, which is a cornerstone of Christmas for many people. It also discusses the introduction of Christmas trees to Britain by Queen Charlotte and how this custom was later popularised by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert.

In this beautiful gift book, expect to see royal Christmas dinner menus and recipes; Queen Victoria’s account of Prince Albert falling through the ice while skating; photographs of Princess Elizabeth and Princess Margaret performing Aladdin at Windsor’s Christmas pantomime; exquisite festive jewellery; and many more seasonal tales.

Louise Cooling is Assistant Curator at Kenwood House. She was previously Assistant Curator of Paintings at the Victoria and Albert Museum and Curator of Paintings, Royal Collection Trust.