The Royal Family have put their Christmas decorations up – but an etiquette expert is ‘mortified’ at their timing

THE Royal Family have put their Christmas decorations up - and as expected, they've done so in style.

Over on Instagram, they've given us a glimpse of the ornate display in Buckingham Palace's Marble Hall.

There are three large Christmas trees - which were grown in Windsor - as well as a garland fixed along the grand staircase.

The trees have been decorated with some very fitting ornaments, which come in the shape of crowns, crests and carriages.

The garland is just as glamorous, with velvet bows and colourful baubles lining the golden banister.

Sparkling white lights finish off the festive arrangement.

In the post's caption, it's explained: "The custom of displaying Christmas trees was introduced to Britain in the late 18th century by Queen Charlotte, consort of King George III, although it was a yew tree rather than a fir that was used.

"The Christmas tree was popularised by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert in the nineteenth century."

But while royal fans are delighted to see the family's decorations, etiquette expert William Hanson has said he's "mortified" at how early they've put them up.

Speaking to Fabulous, he says: "There is a correlation, I think, between how sophisticated a household is and when they put their tree up, although I am mortified to see today that Buckingham Palace have put theirs up in their public areas.

"I'd be interested to know if they are up in their private quarters and I'd be surprised if they are."

William explains that decorations would traditionally go up in a couple of weeks, continuing: "Generally we would say from December 17 onward, and that goes back to the Church of England.

"Traditionally, the crib would go up from the 17 onward and by extension of that it's not just the crib but the decorations in general."

He adds: "I also think if you put them up now you'll be bored with them by Christmas Eve.

"The sparkle literally will literally have gone, the tree will have sagged and the cat will have knocked off half the baubles.

"I'd much rather put it up much closer to Christmas."

In more royal news, here's how to get Kate Middleton's £1450 Emilia Wickstead red plaid skirt and £209 Brora cashmere cardigan for less.

The Queen reportedly told Prince William to put royal duties on the back burner when Kate was expecting Prince George.

And Michelle Obama has revealed that the Queen put her at ease by saying royal protocol was "rubbish".