Preparations for the arrival of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip at their Balmoral summer home are underway. But some royal staff said the work was an "assignment from hell" because of the many prohibitions.
Some royal aides apparently compared their Balmoral stint during COVID-19 to a prison camp. Staff members aren't allowed to do much. To prevent Elizabeth and Philip from catching the virus, aides were told they can't leave Balmoral to visit pubs and shops.
One source said some aides are "going stir-crazy." They have been at Balmoral for at least two weeks ahead of the royals' arrival.
Precautions are necessary because Elizabeth and Phillip are vulnerable to the virus as a result of their age. According to news reports, Balmoral staff have been told to follow the Balmoral Bubble protocol.
Under this Elizabeth and Philip's potential summer guests won't be staying at the castle as usual. Neither will they be allowed indoor gatherings with the queen and her husband.
Guests, including members of the royal family, dining with Elizabeth and Philip will be hosted in an outdoor setting. Social distancing will be observed - especially among the palace staff.
Staff numbers will be reduced to fewer than normal. Staff will observe a two-week quarantine before entering Balmoral. If they are off duty they will also have to quarantine before returning to their own homes.
The protocols are similar to rules enforced in Windsor Castle - where the queen and Philip have been isolating since March. The royals plan to stay at Balmoral from August to late October.
However, according to Daily Express, Princess Anne may be one royal who can visit her parents at Balmoral. Princess Anne is turning 70 in August and is expected to be in Scotland with her husband, Sir Timothy Laurence.
Prince William, the Duchess of Cambridge and their children are reportedly planning to visit Balmoral for the summer as are Prince Charles and Camilla, the Duchess of Cornwall. They will, however, be staying at different apartments within the estate and will spend time with Elizabeth and Philip during outdoor picnics and walks.
