Let’s set the scene: It’s a lovely summer day, but even with overcast skies, the young royals are in high spirits. At the King’s Cup royal sailing regatta on August 9, Prince George, now 6 years old, couldn’t contain his excitement as he explored the yachts with pure joy. Meanwhile, his sister, Princess Charlotte, who's just 4, was spotted playfully sticking her tongue out at her maternal grandfather, Michael Middleton, over the crowd. "Her mother, Kate [Middleton], found it absolutely hilarious," reveals a close royals insider.

As the long, sun-kissed summer days start winding down, Prince William and Kate’s kids — including the youngest, Prince Louis, who’s just 15 months old — have been soaking up every last bit of freedom. “They’re making the most of family time,” the insider shares. “These kids absolutely adore being outdoors, running around, and just being kids.”

Queen Elizabeth's Balmoral Getaway: A Royal Family Tradition

This month, Queen Elizabeth II, at the ripe age of 93, is set to host her beloved grandchildren and their parents at her cherished Balmoral Castle, a sprawling 50,000-acre Scottish estate. “I think Granny is happiest there,” Prince William’s cousin, Princess Eugenie, confides. She goes on to describe the magical vacations at Balmoral: “It’s all about walks, picnics, and, of course, dogs — plenty of dogs! It’s a place where you can truly breathe and run free.”

Read also:
Unlocking The Power Of Deephot Linking Your Ultimate Guide

Kate Middleton with Prince George and Princess Charlotte — ANDY RAIN/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock

The kids are practically buzzing with excitement. “George recently received a pair of binoculars for his birthday, and he can’t wait to use them during the visit,” the insider shares. “And the queen has promised to go horseback riding with Charlotte.” Like many grandparents, the monarch has noticed how much Charlotte resembles her. “They share a very strong bond, although she loves all of her great-grandchildren equally,” the insider adds.

William and Kate’s Parenting Philosophy: Letting Kids Be Kids

This summer has been particularly meaningful for Prince William and Kate, both 37. “While William tends to be the stricter parent, both of them truly want to let their kids enjoy childhood,” the insider explains. “They’re savoring this downtime together as a family, and it’s bringing them closer.”

Before their sailing adventure, an eyewitness opened up exclusively to Closer Weekly about spotting Kate, George, and Charlotte on a shopping trip. You might think the royal family would breeze past the lines, but guess what? “They waited in line at the checkout just like any other family,” the source confirms.

For more on your favorite celebs, pick up the latest issue of Closer Weekly, on newsstands now — and be sure to sign up for our newsletter for more exclusive news!