How the Royals gave us Christmas trees - and the surprising story behind it
ok.co.ukOver the years, the Royal Family have introduced many customs which have gone on to become popular traditions. One of the most famous of these is the Christmas tree which is thought to have first seen in the UK thanks to King George III's wife, Queen Charlotte.
While it did not become the iconic sensation it is today until Queen Victoria's reign, the Royal Family are often credited with making it an accessible trend.
Even though the practice of bringing trees into the house and decorating them with candles and sweets is believed to date back to the 16th century, it was only because of the Royal Family's German links that it became mainstream.
Despite not being updated since King Charles' accession, The Royal Family website explains: "Queen Charlotte, consort of George III, is thought to have introduced the Christmas tree to the Royal Family. "The later enthusiasm of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert for the custom helped spread the popularity throughout the country.Today, The Queen and Members of her family, will usually put the final touches on their Christmas tree." When she was young, Charlotte’s family always decorated single yew branches and laid presents for each other underneath.
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