A Royal Wake-Up Call

Queen Elizabeth II meets Michael Fagan for a chat in her bedroom

Location: Buckingham Palace, SW1A 1AA

Description: On July 9th 1982, Queen Elizabeth II was woken through unfamiliar means...on this occasion the Royal carriage clock did not chime...

Rather the Queen was awoken by a dishevelled and inebriated looking Michael Fagan, mumbling to himself and swigging a bottle of wine stolen from the Royal cellars. The unemployed builder just wanted a chat and unfortunately, the Queen was in no position to refuse.

Being a little worse for wear, Michael's request for a smoke to partner his fine bottle of wine was the Royal chance to raise the alarm and summon help.

Michael Fagan was not charged for trespassing in the Queen's bedroom since it was then a civil offence and proceedings would have compromised the Queen's position as head of state and was acquitted of stealing wine from Buckingham Palace in June.

Michael went on to claim that he broke in to test the security system and found it wanting...wanting what, a drink!

Tours: Queen Elizabeth II Tour of London

Themes: Royalty Royalty Theme