Celebrating the Queen's birthday

Elizabeth II turns 96 on 21 April. She is one of Britain's longest reigning monarchs.

Many people think that being queen is a serious business, you always have to look your best and, of course, own your emotions. Elizabeth certainly is, but behind her stern gaze is actually a woman with a great sense of humour.

The celebrations will be a close one with members of the royal family at a small cottage at Wood Farm. The Queen will be hosting guests the day after the birthday party.

There will be no public events in Britain on 21 April, but celebrations to mark the Queen's platinum jubilee and her official birthday will take place in June.

Prince Philip settled at Wood Farm in 2017 when he stepped away from royal duties. There, the Duke of Edinburgh led a secluded lifestyle, spending much time reading and painting. It is thought that the house was also loved by the Queen's father George VI.

Also on 20 April, Mattel released a Barbie "Queen Elizabeth II" doll in honour of the monarch's birthday.

On April 19, sources at Buckingham Palace told the Daily Mail that Prince Harry and his wife Meghan Markle had been invited to join the rest of the British crown to welcome the Queen to the balcony on the day of the Queen's birthday celebrations.

Earlier this month, Prince Harry and his wife Meghan Markle met Britain's Queen Elizabeth II for the first time since they gave a scandalous interview about racism in the royal family two years ago.