The Queen 'will not attend Archie's christening'

It’s set to be one of the biggest events in the royal calendar this year but according to reports, the Queen will be giving Archie Mountbatten Windsor’s christening a skip.

The adorable royal tot will reportedly be christened just a stone’s throw from Meghan Markle and Prince Harry’s Frogmore Cottage home, in St George’s Chapel, Windsor.

It’s believed the christening will take place next month and while senior members of the royal family, such as his grandad Prince Charles, uncle Prince William and aunt Kate Middleton, are expected to be front and centre on the day, the Queen apparently won’t be in attendance.

According to The Sun, the Queen has prior engagements that day, which she has already committed her time to.

Queen breaks with royal tradition again

It’s not the first time the Queen has been forced to miss one of her great-grandson’s christenings, as in July 2018 the Monarch and her husband, Prince Philip, were nowhere to be seen when Prince Louis was christened.

Buckingham Palace said it was because the Queen needed some time to rest before a heavy week of engagements.

However, reports also surfaced that their absence was due to health reasons, as the 93-year-old Queen had just undergone eye cataract surgery and Prince Philip underwent hip surgery in April.

In October 2013, when Prince George was christened and in July 2015 when Princess Charlotte was christened, both the Queen and Prince Philip were pictured at the festivities.

READ MORE: Prince Harry and Meghan Markle release new photo of baby Archie to mark the Duke’s first Father’s Day

Star-studded christening

While the Queen might be giving the day a skip, there’s expected to be a big turn out for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s baby’s big day.

Of course there will be many members of the royal family in attendance, and a large celebrity presence is also expected, much like at the couple’s May 19th wedding in Windsor Castle last year.

Meghan’s pals, Serena Williams, Oprah and George and Amal Clooney may fly in for the occasion.

READ MORE: Prince William's Father's Day post angers royal fans

It’s also been reported that the former Suits actress’ best friend, Jessica Mulroney, will act as godmother to Archie.

Meanwhile, Prince Harry is expected to have asked his school friends Alexander Gilkes and Jake Warren to be Archie’s godfathers.