Princess Anne, the only daughter of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, is currently recovering in Southmead Hospital in Bristol following a horse-related accident on her Gloucestershire estate, Gatcombe Park. The Princess Royal, aged 73, sustained head injuries and a concussion on Sunday evening. As a precautionary measure, she was admitted for a second night on Monday, according to Buckingham Palace.
The exact circumstances of the incident remain somewhat nebulous due to her concussion, but her medical team indicated that the injuries were consistent with an impact from a horse’s head or legs. Despite the concerning nature of her injuries, Princess Anne was conscious by Monday, and her memory loss, reportedly limited to the details of the incident itself, is expected to be temporary, The Telegraph reported.
The severity of the situation prompted the attendance of an air ambulance, though she ultimately was transported by road to Southmead, the largest hospital in the South West. This facility is renowned for its specialist neuroscience unit and serves as the only adult major trauma center in the Severn Major Trauma Network. Given her history as an Olympian equestrian, Princess Anne is no stranger to equine-related risks, making this incident particularly poignant.
Vice Admiral Sir Timothy Laurence, her husband, visited the hospital on Tuesday, providing an encouraging update on her condition. “She is recovering well, thank you. We are both profoundly grateful to the medical team and hospital support staff for their expert care—and to the emergency services who were all so wonderful at the scene,” he said.
He also expressed gratitude for the widespread support they have received. “We are both deeply touched by all the kind messages we have received from so many people near and far. It means a great deal,” he added.
The Palace’s statement reflected a tone of cautious optimism: “The Princess Royal has sustained minor injuries and concussion following an incident on the Gatcombe Park estate yesterday evening. Her Royal Highness remains in Southmead Hospital, Bristol, as a precautionary measure for observation and is expected to make a full and swift recovery.”
“The King has been kept closely informed and joins the whole Royal Family in sending his fondest love and well-wishes to The Princess for a speedy recovery,” the statement concluded.
"*" indicates required fields
Renowned for her robust work ethic and straightforward demeanor, Princess Anne is among the most active royals in terms of public engagements. Her lifelong passion for equestrianism is well-documented, having competed in eventing at the highest levels, including representing Great Britain in the 1976 Montreal Olympics. Her dedication to the sport extends beyond the competitive arena into various equestrian charities and administrative roles within the sport.