Queen Elizabeth II has always been in the public eye – as well as being the subject of countless gossip and rumours. So what does being the Queen really involve? Although many people know she’s the head of a religion and has two birthdays, there’s still a lot of mystery surrounding Queen Elizabeth II. Did you know that…

1. She doesn’t need a passport or driving license

Despite both these documents being issued in her name, the Queen is the only person in the country who doesn’t need them to travel or drive. I guess if your face is on every stamp in the country, you don’t really need any ID.

2. She has her own ATM

The Queen is a very busy person and doesn’t have time to head to the bank to withdraw her money. Luckily, Coutts bank fitted her own personal ATM in the basement of Buckingham Palace. One of the many perks of being the Queen!

3. She owns every dolphin in British waters

Not only are the people of Britain her subjects – but the dolphins too! Queen Liz technically owns every dolphin, whale, and sturgeon in British waters. You might think that this is one of those crazy outdated laws, but it was recognised as recently as 2004!

4. She has her own knights

No, not the ones who wear body armour and like to joust; the Queen’s knights are people who have contributed to British society in some way – and they can be anything from soldiers to poets to philanthropists. However, fantasy writer Terry Pratchett did forge himself a sword to celebrate!

5. She can fire governments at will

You might think that the British Empire is no more, but the UK still has a few tricks up its sleeve. If the Queen is unhappy with how someone is ruling one of her former colonies, she can change it. Think this sounds too outdated? It last took place in Australia in 1975.

No matter where you stand on the subject of the monarchy, you can’t deny that the role is fascinating! Do you know any other interesting facts about the Queen?

For more information on the UK, check out our country guide!