When you imagine a royal encounter, you might picture handshakes, polite smiles, and maybe a wave from a distance.
But for Queen Camilla, a recent visit to the Sandringham Flower Show included something a little more… unexpected.
That surprise came courtesy of a royal superfan named Phil Smith, who turned up with a fresh tattoo on his leg – not just any tattoo, but the royal cypher of King Charles and Queen Camilla.
And yes, Her Majesty found it absolutely hilarious.
A Royal Tattoo That Hurt (But Made Her Laugh)
Phil Smith, 61, proudly pulled up his shorts in front of Queen Camilla and revealed the inking on his thigh, joking, “It bloody hurt!” The Queen couldn’t help but burst out laughing.
Then she pointed to one of her police officers and said with a smile, “He’s got one too!”
Turns out Phil isn’t a stranger to Camilla. He’s been writing to her since before she married King Charles and says she often replies.
His leg already boasts four large tattoos honoring the royal family — including Queen Elizabeth, King Charles, Camilla individually, and now their joint cypher.
Phil said after their moment, “I just think she’s fabulous.
We hit it off. I waited right at the front just to show her the latest one. She laughed and loved it.”
The Royals Enjoy a Day Among the Flowers
King Charles and Queen Camilla made the trip to Norfolk for the annual Sandringham Flower Show, one of their last big public appearances before summer break.
The event, held on the grounds of the royal estate, attracts around 20,000 visitors each year.
Arriving in Queen Victoria’s vintage open carriage, they were welcomed with flowers by children and serenaded by a local school choir singing the national anthem.
It was a cheerful day, full of smiles, sunshine, and heartfelt interactions.
A Touching Return for the King
It was especially meaningful for many in the crowd to see King Charles back at the event after missing it last year due to cancer treatment.
Dressed in a smart suit and beaming alongside Camilla — elegant in a floral Fiona Clare dress — the King looked relaxed and grateful.
At one point, he chatted with a young flower show winner, commenting on the return of the rain, saying, “At least you’ve now had some rain.”
A Little Dog Talk and a Lot of Garden Pride
Camilla showed off her love for gardening and dogs during the event.
She mentioned her new Battersea rescue puppy, Moley, who didn’t attend because, as she said with a grin, “She’s very naughty. I think I only have one shoe left.”
When asked if she grows her own vegetables at Raymill, her private home in Wiltshire, Camilla lit up: “Yes, I do enjoy it.
I’m very proud of my veg. It’s the best therapy in the world.”
She noted how dry it’s been — especially now that Wiltshire is under a hosepipe ban — and admitted, “I’ve never done so much watering in my life.”
Laughter Among Cakes and Mini Gardens
Inside the flower tents, Camilla admired everything from cakes to miniature gardens.
She even remembered a past exhibit: “Do you remember last time when we had the pie that looked like the King?” she chuckled.
She giggled at the judges’ explanation for disqualifying certain entries: “Good job I’m not judging then!” she replied playfully.
And yes, her husband couldn’t help but praise her talents.
One judge mentioned that the King said Camilla is excellent at flower arranging, to which she modestly replied, “I do enjoy it. I like to do all the flowers in the house.”
Sweet Treats and Thoughtful Moments
Later, the royal couple wandered through stalls run by charities and community groups.
They sampled cakes at the Sandringham Women’s Institute Tent and stopped by stands for Cat’s Protection, St John’s Ambulance, and Medical Detection Dogs.
Camilla was given a toy Labrador, while Charles greeted two real-life pups, Bobbin and Misty, with warm affection.
Crowds Cheer and Celebrate Their Return
The visit ended with the King and Queen climbing back into their carriage, waving to crowds that clapped and cheered with joy.
One supporter shouted, “I’m so proud of you,” while another handed the King an invitation to their wedding — just in case he was free.
Charles, smiling warmly, replied, “Oh thank you!” clearly touched by the affection.
A Royal Day to Remember
From tattoos and rescue puppies to cakes and garden chats, it was a day that showed just how down-to-earth and charming the King and Queen can be.
For fans like Phil Smith — and for those lining up just to catch a glimpse — it was proof that even royalty can enjoy a good laugh, a heartfelt chat, and a flower show on a sunny afternoon.
