Queen Camilla assaulted a man as a teenager and fought back using her high heel, according to the upcoming book Power and the Palace: The Inside Story of the Monarchy by former royal correspondent Valentine Low.
The book recounts how Camilla shared the incident during a tea with former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson at Clarence House in June 2008, when he was still Mayor of London.
Guto Harri, Johnson’s former communications director, recalled that Camilla described being groped by a man while traveling on a train to Paddington at around age 16 or 17. When Johnson asked how she responded, Camilla reportedly said, “I did what my mother taught me to. I took off my shoe and whacked him in the nuts with the heel.”
After defending herself, Camilla left the train and reported the attack to an officer. The man was arrested shortly afterward.
The book suggests this experience inspired Boris Johnson to open three rape crisis centers in London during his time as mayor, reflecting the impact of Camilla’s courage and resilience.
Camilla’s account highlights not only her personal bravery but also the influence of early lessons in self-defense. The story resonates as a stark reminder of the dangers women face and the importance of standing up for oneself in dangerous situations.
By sharing her experience, Camilla indirectly influenced public policy. Johnson’s subsequent actions in opening rape crisis centers show how individual stories can translate into broader social change.
The incident underscores the need for awareness and preparedness. Camilla’s story serves as both a cautionary tale and a testament to taking control in critical moments.
