Mike Tindall has revealed the reason why Prince Louis and other young royals do not sit with their parents during the Royal Family's Christmas lunch. The former rugby star, who is married to Zara Phillips, shared insights into the festive seating arrangements during an episode of his podcast, The Good, The Bad and The Rugby, in 2019.
Tindall explained that at the family lunch, which typically sees around 70 guests seated across seven tables, children are given their own separate dining area. He said: "The kiddies have their own little one in a different room." The tradition ensures that young members of the family, including Prince Louis, Prince George, and Princess Charlotte, dine away from the main adult table.
Former royal chef Darren McGrady previously told the BBC that the practice is rooted in tradition. "The children always ate in the nursery until they were old enough to conduct themselves properly at the dining table," McGrady said. He added that there was no high chair at the Queen's table, describing it as "Victorian" in nature.
This year, the Prince and Princess of Wales surprised royal watchers by not attending the pre-Christmas lunch at Buckingham Palace on December 19. A Kensington Palace source told The Telegraph that the decision had been made "some time ago" and that the family had already left for their Norfolk residence, Anmer Hall, to begin their holiday.
The Royal Family's Christmas celebrations continue to follow long-standing traditions, including a Christmas Eve gift exchange and a walk to St. Mary Magdalene Church on Christmas morning. The main festive lunch at Sandringham is expected to host around 45 guests this year, including members of the extended family.
