Harriet Sperling: “Balmoral test” with Charles, William and Kate

For Harriet Sperling, it gets serious: The 45-year-old nurse and fiancee of Peter Phillips (47), son of Princess Anne (76) and oldest grandchild by Queen Elizabeth II (1926-2022), is in the middle of her great test as a future member of the royal family. In the traditional “Balmoral test” in the Scottish highlands, she currently has to prove that it fits into the ranks of the Royals. In addition to King Charles III. (76) and Prince William (43) also Queen Camilla (78) and Princess Kate (43), who take a close look at the newcomer.

The unofficial test, which all potential Royal heals have to undergo, requires a lot: enthusiasm for outdoor activities, up to five outfit changes a day and compliance with the royal protocol at food, drink and party games. Particularly explosive: Harriet’s visit takes place just a few weeks after your engagement announced – usually future royals will only complete the test shortly before a wedding.

However, the first British media reports are optimistic: enjoyed their time with the family and did well – according to palace circles. She undertook a mountain bike tour with her future sister-in-law Zara Tindall (44) and went riding with other family members. “Everyone knows that Peter is destroyed, and Harriet brought Harriet on board, so she will pass the notorious ‘Balmoral test’ with flying colors,” said an insider.

The test has history: While Duchess Kate and Princess Diana (1961-1997) are said to have passed him with distinction, according to media reports, others such as Sarah Ferguson (65) fought with the requirements. Harriet, on the other hand, seems to have left a good impression on earlier occasions – at the Ascot race she was warmly welcomed by King Charles and kissed Peter publicly.

Peter Phillips, who is only in the 19th place in the succession, and the mother of a daughter announced her engagement in summer. The couple got to know each other at a sporting event and made their relationship public in May 2024. For Peter it will be the second marriage after his divorced connection to Autumn Kelly (47), with which he has two children.