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The Queen to exit coronavirus lockdown after six months

The Queen and Prince Phillip will be returning to Buckingham Palace for royal engagements after fleeing the central London residence more than six months ago at the peak of the coronavirus pandemic.

The 93-year-old was taken to Windsor Castle in early March where her and Prince Philip, 98, were kept quarantined with a few staff to minimise the risk of contracting the virus.

Queen Elizabeth II in car leaving Buckingham palace during coronavirus outbreak
The Queen is planning to exit lockdown and return to Buckingham Palace. Photo: Getty Images

Though just weeks ago it was reported the pair would head straight back to their domestic bubble after their summer holiday, it seems plans have changed.

A Buckingham palace spokesperson today confirmed the monarch and her husband will be returning to Windsor and leaving their strict lockdown arrangements to recommence the use of Buckingham Palace in October.

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"The Queen and The Duke of Edinburgh will depart Balmoral Castle during the week commencing September 14 to spend time privately on the Sandringham Estate,” a spokesperson said in a statement to The Sun.

“Subject to the finalisation of the autumn programme, Her Majesty's intention is to return to Windsor Castle in October and to resume the use of Buckingham Palace for selected Audiences and engagements.”

Queen Elizabeth Prince Phillip in care return from coronavirus lockdown
The Queen and Phillip are slated to return in October after more than six months of lockdown. Photo: Getty Images

They did clarify that given the ever-developing situation, the plans could change but for now, it seems her Majesty is heading back to as normal as possible.

"These plans will be kept under review and will, of course, be subject to all relevant guidance and advice,” the spokesperson concluded.

Her Majesty first left Buckingham Palace in March this year, and just weeks ago it looked like she wouldn’t return until next year at the earliest. It’s believed to be the longest period in her 68-year reign that she's spent away from her primary residence.

The drastic lockdown measures put in place for the royal couple came after the virus made its way into the family.

Prince Charles shocked the world when he tested positive in late March, after a Buckingham Palace aide also tested positive for COVID-19.

Prince Charles and Camilla have also been keeping clear of London, instead residing up in Scotland, where Charles stayed in isolation after his positive test.

Prince William and Kate Middleton have also spent most of the time in their Norfolk home Anmer Hall, where they have been home-schooling Prince George and Princess Charlotte.

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