Kate Middleton was given a rare privilege during her first royal holiday to Balmoral

(Image credit: Getty Images)

The Cambridges are undoubtedly the most talked-about family in the world, with their three children Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis entertaining the public on the regular.

Yes, from Princess Charlotte’s signature sass and Prince George’s surprising nickname to Prince Louis’ hilarious facial expressions at the Platinum Jubilee, these miniature royals never fail to make viral news.

It is the Duchess of Cambridge and her "aura of perfection" that makes the most headlines however, from her multiple public appearances to her candid words about motherhood.

This week, it was her pre-royal days that made news as it was revealed that she was given a royal privilege during her first time at Balmoral.

The Queen's Scottish residence is a holiday destination for all royal family members over the summer months, with Kate Middleton allowed to visit during the early days of her and Prince William's relationship.

In order to make her feel welcome, the Queen reportedly even gave Kate a sweet royal privilege, allowing the Duchess - a keen photographer - to take pictures of the residence, something that is usually banned.

Royal commentator Katie Nicholl opened up about the gesture in her book, Kate: The Future Queen, explaining: "Until now the Queen had met Kate only fleetingly at the wedding of Peter and Autumn Phillips, but she went out of her way to make her feel welcome, giving her permission to take pictures at Balmoral."

Well, that's lovely.

Jenny Proudfoot
Features Editor

Jenny Proudfoot is an award-winning journalist, specialising in lifestyle, culture, entertainment, international development and politics. She has worked at Marie Claire UK for seven years, rising from intern to Features Editor and is now the most published Marie Claire writer of all time. She was made a 30 under 30 award-winner last year and named a rising star in journalism by the Professional Publishers Association.