It's not every day that you run into a future Queen casually strolling through a store, but that's exactly what happened to a few shoppers this week.
Kate Middleton, along with her two oldest children, Prince George and Princess Charlotte, stunned customers and staff when they walked into The Range, a popular discount outlet for some last-minute Christmas shopping.
"I did a double-take when I saw her. You don't expect to see royals shopping at The Range," one surprised mom told The Sun.
Other shoppers revealed that the Duchess of Cambridge, who was dressed in casual clothes, had carts full of children's books, pictures, and materials for arts and crafts.
"I recognised little Prince George holding Kate's hand and Charlotte with a red bow in her hair. Their protection officers were keeping a discreet distance so they looked like any other family out grabbing last-minute Christmas bargains," the customer continued.
"When Kate got to the checkouts I plucked up courage to ask if she'd do a selfie with me and my kids. She very politely declined. She was so nice, explaining she was just doing a bit of Christmas shopping," she added.
According to the witnesses, Kate's purchase was so big that she filled up multiple carts.
Kate and the rest of the royal family are currently in Norfolk, where they will be celebrating Christmas at the Queen's home in Sandringham.
It is believed that the busy mother of three was buying items for her fellow royals, who have a tradition of exchanging gag gifts on Christmas Eve.
Royal insiders previously revealed that the family goes all out when it comes to the silly gift tradition. Once the duchess gave Prince Harry a "Grow Your Own Girlfriend" kit, and a few years ago, Harry gave his grandmother a novelty shower cap with the phrase "Ain't life a b**tch" printed on it.
In addition to the gag presents, the royals will also open their other gifts on Christmas Eve.
"The royals are of German descent so they weave in German traditions to their celebrations," explained former royal chef Darren McGrady. "After afternoon tea, they open gifts on Christmas Eve, as is the German tradition."
