Queen Victoria had 9 children in 17 years, 8 of whom were born at Buckingham Palace. Initially, the layout of the palace was completely unsuited for a young family. The palace garden wasn’t designed for children either, but it wasn’t long before its formal atmosphere was enlivened by games of hide-and-seek, pony rides and skittle tournaments.

While Victoria never hid her dislike of pregnancy, she remained a devoted and conscientious mother. Her maternal affection is evident in her journals and sketchbooks and she also preserved and commissioned childhood souvenirs.