Not all royal visits are picture-perfect affairs. Sometimes, even the most opulent palaces and grand state dinners can be shaken up by a member of the Royal Family.
On the latest episode of the Mail’s Queens, Kings and Dastardly Things podcast, hosts Robert Hardman and Kate Williams dive into the history of the most notorious Royal houseguests, sharing stories that range from extravagant appetites to outright rudeness.
Princess Margaret: A Legendary Party-Starter
Among the Royals highlighted, Princess Margaret, Queen Elizabeth II’s younger sister, takes center stage for her unpredictable and often scandalous behaviour.
Known for her sharp wit and love of champagne, Margaret has long divided opinion: some saw her as a charming socialite, others as a headache for hosts.
Memoirs from dignitaries and fellow Royals recount her legendary drunken escapades and her ability to both charm and exasperate.
A Rebellious Guest Abroad
Royal biographer Robert Hardman recounted one particularly memorable incident during a European tour in the 1950s.
A grand lunch had been arranged for Margaret at a chateau, with all of society’s young elites eager to meet her.
But on the morning of the event, Margaret feigned illness with a “fake cough” and stayed in her room, leaving the Queen Mother to attend alone.
Hardman recalled, “She turned up very hungover… then called in a hairdresser just to have her hair done. Phenomenally rude behaviour.”
Margaret’s Wild Nights
Historian Kate Williams added more anecdotes illustrating Margaret’s unpredictable charm.
At a ball hosted by Lady Rothermere, Margaret reportedly grabbed the microphone mid-performance and demanded Cole Porter’s music.
Her impromptu singing stopped the dance floor, drawing loud boos—including from the famous painter Francis Bacon, who was himself intoxicated.
Williams quipped, “You do need to be careful with Princess Margaret when she comes round – she could say anything, or sing anything.”
Charm That Could Win Over Even Dictators
Yet Margaret’s unorthodox behaviour was not all chaos. In the early 1970s, she played a crucial diplomatic role during a tense Cold War moment.
Ahead of a state visit by Yugoslavia’s Communist leader President Tito, Margaret was sent on a pre-visit to the country.
Despite Tito’s reputation as a hardline leader, Margaret charmed him so thoroughly that he addressed her as “comrade princess,” a nickname fondly remembered in the former Yugoslavia.
Hardman reflected, “The princess was able to wow one of the most terrifying monsters of her day.”
Royal Scandals and Hidden History
Episodes like these remind listeners that behind the polished images of Royal visits lie tales of rebellion, wit, and unexpected diplomacy.
Queens, Kings and Dastardly Things continues to uncover these secret moments from history, offering a mix of palace intrigue, scandal, and colourful personalities.
The latest episode exploring the worst Royal houseguests is available wherever you get your podcasts.