Queen Elizabeth

The weirdest advice given to Queen Elizabeth by her grandmother Queen Mary

Queen Elizabeth

Queen Elizabeth was given bizarre advice regarding her “toilet habits” just before she ascended the throne in 1952. 


Queen Elizabeth II is the longest-reigning monarch in the world.



She is also one of the most well-travelled monarchs in British history. Her Majesty is a frequent traveller and has seen more of the world than any other British monarch. When the Queen ascended the throne on June 2, 1953, her beloved grandmother, Queen Mary passed on two very practical pieces of advice. It turns out, that the advice seemed to have worked.

So, what was the advice? Queen Mary’s advice to her granddaughter was revealed by royal biographer, Karen Dolby in ‘The Wicked Wit of Queen Elizabeth II’. According to Ms Dolby, Queen Mary is claimed to have said: “During public engagements, one should sit down whenever possible. And, one should avail oneself of toilet facilities whenever the opportunity arises”.

Also read: Top-5 award-winning movies about the British monarchs.



The advice was no doubt useful during her frequent away days and meetings. For loo breaks a retiring room is designated for Her Majesty and Prince Philip everywhere they visit. This may also be used as a panic room in case of an attack.

For more royal family updates: follow The Royal UK on Instagram

There are some more things that the Queen carries with her always: Queen Elizabeth always has her own toilet paper when travelling, according to a man who went on 20 royal tours with the royal family. Gordon Rayner states that it is always sealed with a sticker. It is done so that they know, which one have they already used.



Mr Rayner told The Royal UK: “Sanitary ware is marked or sealed with stickers to warn others that they are reserved. It could be assumed that the toilet paper brand the British royal family uses is Andrex. Andrex was granted the royal warrant in 1978. 

However, reports that she travels with her own loo seat are not true, according to Karen Dolby. It is only the Prince of Wales, Charles who has ever been known to do this. However, Charles has since quashed those bizarre rumours. 

Also read: Queen Elizabeth reveals she was “bored” at her Father’s Coronation.



While being interviewed on an Australian radio show, Charles was caught off guard when asked about his travelling request requirements. Prince Charles swore at the absurdity of the allegation. To this, he replied: “My own what”? Before adding: “Oh don’t believe all that crap”.

If you liked the article, kindly share it with your friends, groups and family members 🙂