Queen Camilla, the United Kingdom’s queen consort, faced an attempted sexual assault as a teenager, using her shoe’s heel to defend herself, as revealed in a new book. The incident occurred on a train heading to Paddington, London, when she was around 16 or 17 years old. The story, shared by Camilla with Boris Johnson during a 2008 meeting, was published in “Power and the Palace” by Valentine Low, a former royal correspondent for The Times. The book, released in September 2025, details how the then-student reacted to the attack and reported the aggressor to authorities. The account underscores Camilla’s long-standing commitment to combating sexual violence, a cause she has championed for over a decade. The story was shared with Johnson, former London mayor, during a personal connection at a Clarence House meeting. The episode highlights Camilla’s resilience and her advocacy for victims of violence.
The book’s narrative, based on a conversation relayed by Guto Harri, Boris Johnson’s former communications director, provides vivid details of the incident. During the meeting, Camilla described how the aggressor attempted to touch her inappropriately on the train. Her immediate reaction, inspired by her mother’s teachings, was to use her shoe’s heel as a weapon. After the confrontation, she had the presence of mind to report the man to a uniformed official at Paddington station, leading to his arrest. The book, exploring the monarchy’s relationship with political power, uses this episode to illustrate Camilla’s personal strength.
The excerpt’s publication in the Sunday Times sparked significant attention, shedding light on a lesser-known aspect of the queen consort’s life. The story, beyond revealing a moment of courage, reinforces her connection to initiatives supporting victims of violence. Buckingham Palace was contacted for comment on the account but issued no official rebuttal, suggesting the reported details are not disputed by the Crown.
Courageous response in a critical moment
Camilla’s story on the train is a testament to her determination from a young age. The incident, occurring when she was a student, shows a teenager who, faced with danger, acted swiftly and bravely. According to the account, the aggressor began moving his hand invasively, prompting her immediate reaction.
- Learned self-defense: Camilla credited her response to her mother’s advice to use available objects for protection.
- Immediate reporting: Upon arriving at the station, she located an official and reported the attack, ensuring the aggressor’s arrest.
- Lasting impact: The episode shaped her views on the importance of addressing violence against women.
The account, detailed by Guto Harri, highlights Camilla’s composure, as she not only defended herself but also ensured the aggressor faced consequences. This personal story adds depth to her public image, known for its discretion and strength.
Meeting with Boris Johnson
The context of the story’s revelation is equally compelling. During a meeting at Clarence House around 2008, Camilla and Boris Johnson, then London’s mayor, formed an instant connection. According to Guto Harri, their conversation was marked by notable chemistry, with Johnson expressing admiration for the then-duchess of Cornwall.
The discussion, initially light, turned serious when Camilla shared the train incident. Johnson, intrigued, asked what happened next. Camilla’s direct and humorous description of her self-defense impressed the politician. This moment of openness underscores Camilla’s ability to connect with public figures, even on sensitive topics.
- Personal connection: The rapport between Camilla and Johnson facilitated the sharing of personal stories.
- Conversation tone: Despite the topic’s gravity, Camilla narrated the episode with confidence.
- Internal impact: The story was shared by Johnson with his team, reaching author Valentine Low.
The interaction, documented in the book, shows how personal experiences can emerge in formal settings, revealing lesser-known facets of public figures.
Commitment to the cause
Camilla’s dedication to combating sexual violence has gained prominence in recent years. As queen consort, she has used her platform to support initiatives aiding victims of abuse. One example is the Wash Bag Project, which provides hygiene kits for individuals undergoing forensic exams after sexual assaults.
Camilla also participates in events and campaigns raising awareness about domestic and sexual violence. Her work includes visits to shelters, meetings with survivors, and support for organizations offering psychological and material assistance. The train incident adds a personal perspective to her advocacy, showing that her connection to the issue transcends royal duty.
- Wash Bag Project: Initiative providing hygiene items for victims post-forensic exams.
- Public campaigns: Camilla promotes events to highlight prevention efforts.
- Survivor support: Visits to support centers reinforce her commitment.
- Symbolic impact: Her personal story inspires other victims to seek help.
This dedication reflects Camilla’s evolution as a public figure, turning personal experiences into concrete actions to help others.
A book unveiling the monarchy
“Power and the Palace” by Valentine Low explores the dynamics between the British monarchy and political power, offering intimate stories about royal figures. Published in September 2025, the book draws on insider accounts, like Guto Harri’s, to provide a close-up view of the Crown.
The excerpt about Camilla is one of several narratives in the book. It also covers significant moments in the monarchy, such as Charles III’s ascension in 2022 and the impact of Elizabeth II’s death. Camilla’s story, however, stands out for its emotional weight and its connection to her public work.
- Book’s focus: The monarchy’s relationship with political leaders.
- Trusted author: Valentine Low is a former royal correspondent for The Times.
- Recent publication: Launched in 2025, the book reflects contemporary events.
Low’s narrative blends journalistic rigor with personal stories, offering a unique perspective on royal life.
Legacy of resilience
Camilla’s train story is not just an isolated account but a reflection of her strength and determination. From a young age, she showed the ability to face adversity with courage, a trait that continues to define her as queen consort. Her ability to turn a traumatic episode into a narrative of empowerment inspires other victims to seek support and justice.
Buckingham Palace’s lack of official contestation suggests the account is viewed as authentic. Camilla’s decision to share this story with Boris Johnson, in a moment of vulnerability, reinforces her authenticity as a public figure. Moreover, her work in causes related to violence against women demonstrates a sustained commitment to social change.
- Inspiration for others: The story encourages victims to report abuses.
- Royal authenticity: Camilla uses her experience to connect with the public.
- Lasting impact: Her journey underscores the importance of resilience.
The blend of personal courage and philanthropic work makes Camilla a central figure in the fight against gender-based violence, with her story now amplified by Low’s book.