Harriet Sperling, the fiancée of Peter Phillips, is undergoing the famous 'Balmoral Test' after being invited to the Scottish Highlands with the Royal Family for the first time. The 45-year-old nurse, who is set to marry the King's nephew, has joined King Charles and other family members at the Balmoral estate.
The Balmoral Test is an unofficial assessment for potential royal family members, requiring guests to enthusiastically join outdoor activities, change outfits up to five times a day, and participate in eating, drinking, and party games while observing royal protocol. Sperling's visit comes less than a month after her engagement to Phillips was announced, a quicker timeline than other royals like Kate Middleton, who first visited two years before marrying Prince William.
Royal insiders report that Sperling has enjoyed her time at Balmoral, joining Zara Tindall for an electric mountain bike trip and horse riding around the estate. A source said, 'Everyone knows Peter is smitten and his family have accepted Harriet into the set up so she will likely pass the infamous Balmoral Test with flying colours.'
Princess Diana and Princess Catherine excelled on their first visits, while Sarah, Duchess of York, Margaret Thatcher, and Cherie Blair reportedly struggled. The test dates back to Prince Philip and the Queen Mother, with Wallis Simpson famously failing by criticising the tartan carpets.
Peter Phillips, 19th in line to the throne, will marry Sperling after a year of dating. The couple announced their engagement earlier this month, with both families delighted. No wedding date has been set.
