bahrainthismonth.com | JUNE 2026 UK IN BAHRAIN 30 Monarchs Motorcars and Kristian Harrison explores the British monarchy’s historic love affair with cars and the treasures hidden within the royal garages. It should come as no surprise that the British Royal Family has a fleet of cars fit for kings and queens, most of which are housed at the Royal Mews at Buckingham Palace unless required elsewhere. Yet among the grand Bentleys and stately Rolls-Royces, there are some remarkable stories … for example, did you know that His Majesty King Charles III has a cheese-powered Aston Martin? A Fleet Fit for Royalty Before diving into the more unusual vehicles, it is worth understanding the royal car classifications. Vehicles used for ceremonial duties fall into several groups. The most distinguished are the State Cars, used for public engagements and formal occasions by the monarch or visiting dignitaries. The fleet currently boasts two Bentleys and three Rolls-Royces. Royal Review Vehicles – two modified Range Rovers – follow closely behind in importance, built specifically for parades and official ceremonies. What distinguishes these cars is not only their design but their privileges. Painted in Royal Claret and Masons Black, they are among the very few vehicles in Britain exempt from carrying number plates, sharing this honour only with the State Hearse, last used for Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. For less formal events, the Semi-State Cars come into play. These vehicles, which do bear registration plates, include a pair of 2012 Jaguar XJ Limousines and three 2022 Range Rover models. Beyond the ceremonial fleet, there are dozens of other cars
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