To any watching admirer, she makes it look easy. As with so much in the business of royalty, the reality is a little more laborious.

The Queen has given a rare glimpse into the perilous business of wearing the Crown Jewels, as she describes a crown so heavy she must keep her head lifted for fear of breaking her neck.

The Queen, who is to discuss her memories of her own Coronation in a BBC documentary, described the Imperial State Crown as “very unwieldy”, agreeing it was very heavy.

The crown, which was worn at the end of the Coronation and for most State Openings of Parliament since, was adapted slightly for her, following the death of her father.

“You see, it’s much smaller isn’t it?! the Queen says, gesturing to the height of the crown’s arches in scenes to be broadcast on BBC One on Sunday. “You know, it would have been up to about there when my father wore it.”