A sweet story has emerged that highlights just how close Prince George is to his grandmother, Carole Middleton. Away from royal duties and public expectations, their relationship appears refreshingly normal. In fact, the future king is said to genuinely enjoy spending time with his grandmother doing everyday things, including shopping trips that feel far removed from palace life.
Prince George’s special bond with Carole Middleton
According to a recent profile of Princess Kate published by The Times ahead of her birthday, Prince George regularly enjoys quality time with Carole Middleton. These moments are not just about fun. They also involve learning practical life skills, such as running small errands and behaving sensibly in public.
That image of normality was reinforced during an engagement in Sunningdale, Ascot, held last September to mark the passing of Queen Elizabeth II. While meeting members of a local Women’s Institute group, Prince William and Princess Kate chatted with Sally Pellow, who shared an unexpected royal encounter of her own.
Sally revealed that years earlier she had served Kate in a French Connection shop in Reading. But the story did not end there. About five years ago, she crossed paths with the family again in a far more surprising way.
A quiet shopping trip away from royal life
Sally explained that she had stopped by a local interior design shop to collect wallpaper samples when she noticed Prince George inside with his grandmother. According to her, the young royal was “beautifully dressed” and sitting calmly at a desk while eating pieces of orange, clearly comfortable and well behaved.
Members of the WI group later commented on how sensible George appeared while out in public. Prince William responded with a laugh, admitting that “behind closed doors it’s a completely different ball game,” a remark that resonated with many parents.
Reports over the years have suggested that when George, Charlotte and Louis were younger, Carole and Michael Middleton often shared childcare duties alongside the family’s long-time nanny, Maria Teresa Turrion Borrallo. More recently, the Middletons are also said to have played a crucial role in supporting their daughter during her cancer treatment.
Support behind the scenes and growing maturity
Royal expert Katie Nicholl has spoken about the steady presence Kate’s parents have provided during her health battle. She described Carole and Michael as grounded and united, explaining that their focus has been not only on supporting Kate and William, but also on being there for their grandchildren.
That support was quietly visible in Princess Kate’s video update released in September 2024, when she announced the end of her chemotherapy treatment. The footage showed intimate family moments, including scenes of Carole and Michael Middleton playing cards with George, Charlotte and Louis, offering a glimpse into how closely knit the family has been during that period.
Prince George has continued to attract attention for his mature behaviour in recent weeks. During the royal family’s Christmas Day appearance at Sandringham, many onlookers noticed his calm confidence as he greeted members of the public and politely accepted gifts.
One bystander later told HELLO! magazine that George seemed remarkably composed for his age, noting that it was hard to believe he will be a teenager the next time he takes part in the tradition.
