The Queen is well known for a lot of things - her love of corgis, her penchant for horses, and even her stylish, brightly coloured matching coats and hats. Oh, and of course that she's the longest reigning monarch in British history and has dedicated her whole life to service of the Commonwealth.
However, there are emerging some unexpected things that make Her Majesty who she is. For example, did you know that The Queen collects pepper grinders and stamps? Or that she's apparently a talented mimic? And the latest thing we've discovered about our 95-year-old monarch is one of the most unique talents yet. Thanks to Windsor Castle's close proximity to Heathrow Airport, she has developed an ability to identify different plane models by their sound.
The historic Berkshire castle is known to be The Queen’s favourite home and has now become her permanent residence since the death of her husband Prince Philip last year. The Windsor Estate is located just 16 miles away from the busy Heathrow Airport, meaning there is constant air traffic flying overhead.
While this would be annoying for some, it has allowed The Queen to develop the most impressive talent that stuns her family and guests. Hello Magazine reported that The Queen was enjoying lunch with her racing friends at Windsor Castle when she stopped and said: "Boeing 747," as a plane flew overhead. Then she added: "That’s an Airbus."
As Windsor is just a stone's throw from Heathrow, planes can be heard roaring past at all hours, meaning Her Majesty has become able to identify each plane model by their different sounds.
It’s not just being nearby to one of the busiest airports in the country that has aided the Queen’s unexpected talent, but also because she is one of the most widely travelled nonagenarians in the world. During her 70-year reign, she has travelled to more than 120 countries - visiting many more than once.
When it comes to air travel, there are many crucial rules that the Royal Family must adhere to with regards to safety. Even though she no longer travels abroad, the Queen always had a supply of blood and a doctor with her at all times.
Another important rule is that two heirs to the throne cannot travel in the same plane. While this rule can be broken with the monarch's permission, once a royal child turns 12 it is vital that they do not travel with another heir in case a plane crash occurs.
While plane crashes rarely happen nowadays, three royals have previously lost their lives in air accidents. Prince Philip’s sister, Princess Cecile died in a crash in 1937, the Queen’s uncle Prince George of Kent died in 1942 and her cousin, Prince William of Gloucester died while competing in an air show in 1972.
A final rule that was introduced after a tragedy occurred was the need for every royal woman to pack a black dress. When King George VI died in 1952, the Queen was in Kenya on a royal tour and did not have any mourning clothes packed for her return to the UK. When her plane landed at London Airport a suitable dress was brought aboard for her to change into before she disembarked.
