The Queen has been photographed riding out from the Balmoral Estate, while on her annual break from public life.
The image shows her on one of her fell ponies, accompanied by a groom on another steed.
A surprised onlooker, who shot a video of the ride, said: “We were enjoying a little sightseeing and were taking pictures at the gates wondering if the Queen was in residence – when out she rode. We never expected to see her for one minute.
“If the policeman at the gate had not saluted her you would never have known it was the Queen riding past us.”
The Queen, who is an accomplished horsewoman, rode wearing riding trousers, a beige coat, and a scarf over her hair.
She rode without a helmet – a move which has raised repeated concerns in the past for her safety.
The British Equestrian Health and Safety Association has previously described the Queen as being “from the old school” in her choice not to ride with a helmet.
While it is not the law in the UK, it is recommended by various equestrian groups.
A royal biographer revealed the Queen had been questioned about helmets while out riding with her trainer Ian Balding.
He reportedly said to her: “I really think it is ridiculous that you above all others do not wear a crash helmet.”
To which she replied: “I never have, and you don’t have to have your hair done like I do.”
The Queen is at the Balmoral Estate on Deeside for her annual visit.
She arrived at Balmoral after opening the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow but spent several days staying in nearby Craigowan Lodge until the tourist season finished.
The Queen will remain at Balmoral until October, when she returns to the public eye. She will attend the Braemar Gathering next weekend along with other members of the Royal Family.