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Queen Elizabeth's Touching Next Milestone: 64 Years on the Throne Following Her Father's Death

As Queen Elizabeth remarked on the day she passed Queen Victoria's record reign in September, a long life can bring with it "many milestones."

And now the 89-year-old monarch is set for yet another big milestone: 64 years on the throne, as February 6 marks the death of her father, King George VI, and also the day she became Queen.

Queen Elizabeth. Photo: Getty

Known as Accession Day, the Queen normally spends it in quiet, somber reflection at Sandringham House, as it marks the death of her beloved father as much as the day that her public life changed forever. Around the time, she often takes part in a low-key engagement close to her estate in Norfolk. The palace has yet to announce anything for that period.

King George VI with his daughters Princess Elizabeth and Princess Margaret. Photo: Getty


Soon after the date passes, she'll head south to London and Windsor Castle for a fuller set of public and behind-closed-doors work, such as audiences with diplomats and meetings with the U.K. Prime Minister, David Cameron.

Last year the Queen undertook 341 public duties, more than her grandsons Prince William and Prince Harry and granddaughter-in-law Princess Kate combined, according to the year-end figures.

Last week, she made her annual outing to the Women's Institute meeting at West Newton, enjoying cakes and a chat with the local ladies.

The next milestone? Her 90th birthday on April 21. She will be feted more publicly in June with a series of birthday festivities, including a street party along the Mall close to Buckingham Palace in London.

SIMON PERRY writes for for People.com