King Charles has developed a sweet tradition that stretches back decades, and it all begins in a small village in the Scottish Highlands. Long before he became king, Charles was introduced to Walker’s shortbread while attending school nearby, and the classic biscuits have remained a personal favorite ever since.
The village of Aberlour, best known for its rolling hills and world-famous whiskey distilleries, is also home to the Walker family’s iconic bakery. For more than 125 years, Walker’s has been producing its signature buttery shortbread — and over time, it’s become a regular treat for the monarch.
Walker’s Makes Special Batches for King Charles
During a recent visit to Aberlour, Bryony Walker, a fourth-generation member of the Walker family, shared insight into the king’s specific tastes. “The King has his very specific favourite biscuits,” she told HELLO!. “There are even biscuits that we don’t make anymore that he would occasionally request, and so we might make a special run for him.”
She added that Charles sampled several varieties during his visit and toured the factory where the shortbread is produced.
Walker’s relationship with the royal family goes back decades. Queen Elizabeth II awarded the brand a Royal Warrant for shortbread and oatcakes, a tradition now carried on by King Charles. In the company’s visitor book, signatures from Charles and Camilla dating back to the 1980s mark their long history of visits.
“I think they like our history and our heritage and the fact that we’ve done it for a very long time,” Bryony said. “They look for quality products that are made of real ingredients, and they really look for that good quality, delicious eat. Even the royal family are looking for a treat now and again!”
A Royal Tradition That Spans Generations
Charles has returned to Aberlour multiple times, both as a student and as a royal. In 2001, he and Queen Camilla visited to open a new Walker’s factory at the base of the estate. Staff recalled that he noted how much warmer the new headquarters was compared to its schoolhouse days, offering a glimpse into his fondness for the place.
Pointing to a plaque commemorating his visit as the Duke of Rothesay, Bryony expressed pride in the company’s royal connection. “We have lots of shared values with them as a business as well as a product which they love,” she said. “We’re so, so proud to have that sort of association with the royal family over the years.”
