The Princess of Wales attends the historic Garter Day service, marking a joyful return to royal life
The Princess of Wales made a radiant return to royal life on Monday, joining the annual Order of the Garter procession at Windsor Castle after missing last year’s event during cancer treatment. Dressed in an elegant white ensemble with a matching hat and pearl necklace, Catherine smiled and chatted warmly with fellow royals as she resumed public duties at one of the monarchy’s most historic occasions.
Hundreds of onlookers gathered on the castle grounds to watch the age-old ceremony unfold in bright summer sunshine. The princess stood alongside the Duchess of Edinburgh and Vice Admiral Sir Tim Laurence at the Galilee Porch of St George’s Chapel — the traditional vantage point from which members of the Royal Family observe the grand procession.
King Charles III and Queen Camilla, wearing the traditional dark blue velvet robes and plumed hats of the order, followed centuries-old custom by taking up their place at the rear of the ceremonial parade. They were joined by other senior royals including the Prince of Wales, Princess Royal, and Duke of Edinburgh, all dressed in full regalia.
The procession, a highlight of the royal calendar, wound its way through the castle grounds past lines of Household Cavalry troopers. Clad in their signature scarlet tunics and silver helmets with white plumes, the guards formed a glittering corridor for the monarch and the Knights and Ladies of the Garter.
Though not a participating member of the order, Prince Andrew was among the guests, observing from the sidelines. Former Prime Minister Sir Tony Blair and composer Lord Lloyd-Webber, both Garter knights, walked in the procession.
Kate’s presence carried special significance. It marked her most high-profile public appearance since she stepped back from royal engagements in early 2024 following a diagnosis that prompted months of treatment and recovery. Her participation on Garter Day signals her gradual re-emergence into royal life and was greeted with quiet cheers and visible affection from the Windsor crowd.
Earlier in the day, King Charles hosted a traditional Garter lunch for members of the order. The gathering also comes ahead of another major royal appearance, with the King and Queen expected at Royal Ascot later in the week.
Founded in 1348 by King Edward III, the Order of the Garter is the oldest and most senior order of chivalry in the United Kingdom. Membership is limited and deeply symbolic, awarded by the sovereign to individuals who have made significant contributions to public life, national service, or the monarchy.
Despite the solemnity and historic weight of the occasion, the mood was relaxed and celebratory. Families with picnics and deck chairs dotted the lawn, many waving Union flags or wearing royal-themed attire.
For Kate, whose illness and subsequent recovery have been met with an outpouring of public sympathy, the day marked not only a return to tradition but a hopeful new chapter.
