The Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton, joyfully rejoined the royal family for the annual Order of the Garter service, a significant highlight in the monarchy’s calendar. Having missed last year’s event due to her cancer treatment, Kate’s presence marked a poignant and celebrated return.
The service unfolded at Windsor Castle, with Kate witnessing the procession of Ladies and Knights of the Garter as they moved from the castle grounds to St George’s Chapel. King Charles and Queen Camilla upheld tradition by standing at the end of the procession, adorned in deep blue velvet robes and white plumed hats. Other notable figures, including the Prince of Wales, Princess Royal, and Duke of Edinburgh, were also present in their ceremonial attire.
Joined by the Duchess of Edinburgh and Vice Admiral Sir Tim Laurence, Kate positioned herself at the chapel’s galilee porch—a customary vantage point to absorb the ceremony’s grandeur. The air was filled with warmth and laughter, notably when Kate and Sophie shared a lighthearted moment as the procession’s lead, the elderly Military Knights of Windsor, passed by.
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Meanwhile, Prince William observed from a distance, engaging briefly with other royal family members as Kate and Sophie continued their cheerful conversation. The procession route was lined with troopers from the Household Cavalry’s Life Guards and Blues and Royals, their plumed helmets and swords adding to the ceremony’s stately ambiance.
This event signals the start of a bustling period for the royal family, with the King and Queen anticipated to attend Royal Ascot soon. A large and enthusiastic crowd gathered along the procession path, many bringing picnic setups that added a relaxed, celebratory atmosphere to the occasion.
Arriving together 15 minutes before the procession, Kate and Sophie received courteous hat doffs from two gentlemen ushers, prompting Kate to jokingly remark “again and again,” capturing the light spirit of the day. Both women showcased elegant fashion choices; Kate donned a Self Portrait outfit paired with a Sean Barrett hat, while Camilla wore a Fiona Clare dress beneath her Garter robes.
Before the service, King Charles hosted a luncheon for the order, attended by guests including the Duke of York, who notably did not participate in the procession. Among the distinguished Knights of the Garter present were former Prime Minister Sir Tony Blair and Lord Lloyd-Webber, who processed ahead of the royal family, adding to the event’s distinguished character.