Five things you didn't know about the Queen

As Queen Elizabeth II celebrates her official birthday on the 17th June, here’s five things you (probably) didn’t know about her.

Nicknames

The Queen has two known nicknames. Her friends and family call her ‘Lilibet’ and Prince Philip affectionately calls her ‘Cabbage’.

Wake Up Call

There’s no annoying phone alarms going off in Buckingham Palace, instead The Queen wakes up to the sound of her personal bagpiper each morning. It’s said she can even tell the difference when her usual piper is off.

Travel

Queen Elizabeth doesn’t have her own passport, nor is she required to have one as all British passports are issued in her name.

Drinks

The Queen’s favourite brew is a cup of earl grey, and she’s known to drink gin and Dubonnet before her lunch.

Married Life

It seems marital tiffs are not uncommon, even when you’re a monarch. The Queen was once seen throwing a pair of tennis shoes and a racquet at Prince Philip in frustration during their first Australian visit.

The royal tantrum was witnessed by a stunned film crew, although the tape was confiscated by her people and has never been seen. It’s reported her majesty left the scene, only to return a few minutes later and apologise, saying: “I’m sorry for that little interlude, but, as you know, it happens in every marriage. Now, what would you like me to do?”.

• Queen Elizabeth II
• Royal Family