Royal family share an adorable baby photo for the Queen's birthday

The royal family have posted a photo of the Queen at age 2 as a sweet tribute for her 96th birthday on Thursday.

Sharing on their official Instagram account, the snap shows the then Princess Elizabeth smiling into the camera with her hands on her face.

Alongside the photo, the caption reads: “Happy Birthday Your Majesty!

“Then Princess Elizabeth, she was the eldest daughter of The Duke and Duchess of York and never expected to become Queen.”

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“Her life changed in 1936 when her uncle, King Edward VIII abdicated, her father became King George VI and the young Princess became the heir presumptive.

“Following the sad death of her father in 1952, Princess Elizabeth became Queen Elizabeth II aged just 25, and this year is celebrating 70 years on the throne — a first in British history.”

There were gun salutes across London and musical tributes to mark the Queen’s birthday.

At Windsor Castle, the crowds enjoyed watching the Band of the Coldstream Guards play a rendition of Happy Birthday.

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge also posted their own tribute to the Queen on Instagram.

Prince William and Kate Middleton shared two photographs, including a very adorable photo of the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh with many of their great-grandchildren.

“Wishing Her Majesty The Queen a very happy 96th birthday today!” the post began.

“An inspiration to so many across the UK, the Commonwealth and the world, it’s particularly special to be celebrating in this Platinum Jubilee year.”

Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall were quick to follow, posting a carousel of images including one of the Prince as a young boy.

“Wishing Her Majesty The Queen a particularly special 96th birthday today, as we celebrate her Platinum Jubilee year,” they wrote.

The tributes come after Prince Harry spoke of his 'special relationship' with his grandmother the Queen during his explosive interview with the Today show's Hoda Kotb this week.

Harry explained that despite living further away from his family and grandmother, he's putting in the effort to make sure she is secure and supported.

On Wednesday, the Duke was questioned over whether he will return to the UK for the Platinum Jubilee.

"I don't know if I'll come. There are lots of issues with security and everything else.

"That's what I'm trying to do. I'm trying to do everything to make sure my kids can meet her."

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