A shopping centre in Tunbridge Wells was given the royal treatment on Monday.

Queen Sofia of Spain visited the Royal Victoria Place on Tuesday , based at the top of Mount Pleasant Road, for an unexpected trip to pick up some Christmas gifts while visiting the UK.

The 75-year-old, who was born a princess of Greece and Denmark but not Spain, was joined by her daughter Princess Elena, Duchess of Lugo, and their team of security staff as they browsed stores in the largest retail centre.

The pair spent five hours in the centre and left laden with shopping bags.

Marc Burchett, marketing manager of the centre, commented; “We were delighted to welcome some of the Spanish monarchy for this festive shopping trip.

“Royal Tunbridge Wells has always proved a popular destination with Rroyals throughout the town’s history and therefore it is a great honour that they choose to come and visit us.”

Queen Sofia, who is often praised by her native press for her wardrobe choices, has ruled Spain since her husband’s accession in November 1975.

She is married to King Juan Carlos I of Spain, who became the first reigning monarch of the country since 1931 two days after the death of Franco.

Royal Victoria Place is also currently paying tribute to another of its Rroyal connections.

It is marking the 21st anniversary of its official opening by the late Diana, Princess of Wales, by putting together a community art project that will recreate an image of Queen Victoria via a photo mosaic. The artwork will befor displayed in the centre.

PeopleResidents and shoppers are invited to participate by submitting a photo of themselves and their familiesy to www.victoria-at21.com

It is hoped that the project will be unveiled early in 2014.