Royal Connections: Princess Charlotte’s Playmate and Her Hidden Ties to the Queen

In the ever-evolving world of royalty, new faces often emerge, some with intriguing backstories.

One such figure is Maud Elizabeth Daphne Marina Windsor, a young royal who not only shares a school with Prince George and Princess Charlotte but also has a fascinating family connection to the late Queen Elizabeth II.

Maud, born on August 15, 2013, in California, is the granddaughter of Prince Michael of Kent, who happens to be a cousin of Queen Elizabeth.

This makes her part of a larger royal tapestry that many might not be aware of.

While the Cambridge children often steal the spotlight, Maud and her sister Isabella Alexandra May Windsor play significant roles in the royal narrative as well.

The Windsor sisters are both students at St. Thomas's Battersea, the same school that Prince George and Princess Charlotte attend.

This shared educational experience has fostered a close bond among them.

Interestingly, Maud was born just weeks after Prince George, making them distant cousins.

At the time of her birth, her mother, Sophie Winkelmann, was working in California, which explains her American roots.

Sophie, known as Lady Frederick Windsor, has quite the impressive background herself.

She's an actress who appeared in popular shows like “Peep Show” and “Two and a Half Men.”

Additionally, she is the half-sister of television presenter Claudia Winkelmann.

This connection adds another layer to the Windsor family's rich history.

Maud's name carries significant weight.

It pays homage to several royal ancestors, with her first name honoring Queen Maud of Norway, the daughter of King Edward VII.

Her middle names, Elizabeth and Daphne, further reflect her lineage, with Elizabeth being a tribute to her great-grandmother, Queen Elizabeth II, and Daphne honoring her mother's grandmother.

The final touch comes from Marina, named after her paternal grandmother, Princess Marina of Greece and Denmark.

In a recent interview with Hello, Sophie shared insights into the close relationship between the young royals.

She recounted an invitation to tea at Kensington Palace shortly before Princess Charlotte's birth.

During this gathering, Maud and George hit it off remarkably well, with Sophie noting George's articulate nature, which set him apart from his peers.

Public appearances have also showcased Maud's budding royal presence.

She was seen alongside Princess Charlotte as they both served as bridesmaids at Princess Eugenie's wedding to Jack Brooksbank in 2018, a moment that captured the hearts of royal watchers.

As the Cambridge children prepare for a new chapter, rumors swirl about their potential move to the Windsor estate.

Prince George is set to start at Lambrook School this September, which boasts impressive facilities, including a nine-hole golf course and scuba diving classes.