The Cotswolds’ very own Prince of Wales turns 70 this month, so we looked back on some of the highlights of his life and career, and wondered what birthday pressies we would buy for the man who has the world at his feet
Happy Birthday, Charles!
The Prince of Wales made the most of the scorching weather and celebrated his 70th Birthday at a Buckingham Palace garden party in May – and who can blame him? – but the big day actually falls on November 14.
We’ve been told, though, that the Queen has (shhhh) organised a bit of a do in the State Rooms on the actual day, as well. And, with the addition of the special exhibition he curated at the Palace, featuring some of his favourite artworks as part of his 70th celebrations (‘Prince and Patron’), it looks like this one’s the birthday that just keeps on giving.
When you’re heir apparent to the reigning sovereign, what could you possibly want on your 70th Birthday wish list? We searched around for options for the perfect gifts, and came up with the following...
Modern Architecture Tour
There’s no getting away from the fact that London has its share of ‘monstrous carbuncles’, but we thought you might enjoy taking in this tour of the capital’s architectural wonders, including its soaring skyscrapers and futurist ‘wobbly’ footbridge. It may confirm your worst fears, but we think it’s worth a punt. insider-london.co.uk
Sixpence Cufflinks
It’s always comforting to have something to fiddle with when carrying out official duties, and these rhodium-plated sixpence cufflinks – complete with Mummy’s image – will bring you added luck. Aspinal of London, aspinaloflondon.com
The Secret Life of Plants, by Peter Tompkins and Christopher Bird
Your vegetable patch is all ears and waiting for your utterances. This book, originally published in the 1970s, has been pooh-poohed by some but it truly offers an insight into the sentient life of plants and their ability to communicate with man. You probably already have this, Charles, but you can never have too many copies. Available to order from Cotswold booksellers.
Personalised Sewing Kit
In today’s disposable society, we want to applaud your make-do-and-mend attitude, Charles. We too believe that, if you invest in quality, timeless pieces, then, with a little care and upkeep, they truly can last a lifetime. This personalised silver-plated sewing kit can be easily popped in a blazer pocket to deal with lost buttons and fraying cuffs in a jiffy. business-gifts-express.co.uk
Storage case for homeopathic remedies
You’ll be ready for any little emergency life may throw at you with this stylish linen case, able to hold up to 208 homeopathic remedies. It has a protective shield against electromagnetic waves, of course, and comes in a range of colours. £103.37 from etsy.com
Burnley FC Mug
As a big supporter of the Lancashire team, we wanted to get you something to enjoy your morning Earl Grey in. Come on, The Clarets! ebay.co.uk
World’s Best Grandad Sign
We know those little tinkers give you the runaround, but you love nothing more than chasing them round the garden. We’re pretty sure they’ll be getting round to buying you one of these in the near future, but in the meantime, here’s one from us. gettingpersonal.co.uk
Phytl Signs Explorer
While you’re reading your book on the Secret Life of Plants (aloud, of course), plug your cheese plant into this piece of Swiss-designed tech and listen to its literary feedback. phytlsigns.com
The Highgrove Florilegium
At £12,950, we had a bit of a whip-round to get you this, but it is rather special. We figured that, while you’re on your travels, it would be good for you to have a reminder of the glorious gardens at Highgrove...and these watercolours are the next best thing to sitting with the sun on your face in your special bower in Gloucestershire.
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Seventy years as the Queen’s eldest has seen some pretty extraordinary occasions, so we’ve looked through the archive at some of our favourite moments...
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