Princess Kate’s next solo visit revealed – as she’s set to mark key event within days
The Princess of Wales will mark a key day for one of her patronages next week
In her role as Colonel of the Irish Guards, The Princess of Wales will visit the regiment next week ahead of the St. Patrick’s Day Parade at Wellington Barracks in Central London.
The event, which has typically been held at Mons Barracks in Aldershot, is always a favourite among royal fans and often provides memorable moments. Whether it is their funny interactions with the soldiers’ families, meeting the regiment’s mascot, Irish Wolfhound Seamus, or raising a toast with a well-earned pint of Guinness, it is always a popular day.
Kate became the new Colonel of the Irish Guards in March 2023, taking over from Prince William, who had held the position since 2011. He stepped into the role of Colonel of the Welsh Guards, succeeding his father, King Charles.
The Princess of Wales took over as Colonel in 2023 (Image: Getty)
It was a big year for the Irish Guards last year as it was their turn to Troop their Colour before the King at the annual birthday parade in June. While the Colonel of the regiment typically attends the final rehearsal the week before, the Princess was forced to cancel her appearance last year owing to her cancer diagnosis.
Kate was instead replaced by Lieutenant General James Bucknall at the event, with The Irish Guards sharing a photograph of a letter Kate wrote to them, sending her apologies on their official X account.
The letter read: “I wanted to write to let you know how proud I am of the entire regiment ahead of the Colonel’s Review and Trooping the Colour. I appreciate everyone Trooping this year has been practising for months, and dedicating many hours to ensure their uniforms and drill are immaculate.
“Being your Colonel remains a great honour, and I am very sorry that I am unable to take the salute at this year’s Colonel Review. Please pass my apologies to the whole Regiment, however, I do hope I can represent you all again soon. Please send my very best wishes and good luck to all involved.”
Kate finished the letter by handwriting the Irish Guards’ motto Quis Separabit, which means ‘Who shall separate us?’ and signed it ‘Colonel Catherine’.
The event marks one of the regiment’s most significant annual traditions.
Princess Kate will attend the Irish Guard’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade at Wellington Barracks in London on Monday
Upon arrival at the Barracks, the princess will award long service and good conduct medals to soldiers within the regiment.
She will also present shamrock to the Irish Wolf Hound regimental mascot.
The parade will conclude with a Royal Salute and march-past where Kate will take the salute as Colonel.
Following the parade, the future Queen will meet veterans of the Irish Guards and Mini Micks, junior cadets from Northern Ireland.
Princess Kate attended the 2023 St. Patrick’s Day Parade
The Princess will then join the official Officers’ and Sergeants’ Mess photographs.
After the photographs, Her Royal Highness will visit the Junior Ranks dining hall where the Senior Guardsman will propose a toast to The Princess.
She will then spend time meeting Guardsmen to hear about their roles and experiences within the Irish Guards.
The Princess’s visit will conclude with a trip to the Sergeants’ Mess.
Princess Kate announced she was diagnosed with cancer in March last year
There she will meet with members and their families, completing her St Patrick’s Day engagements with the regiment.
Her appearance will be mark the latest outing from the Princess of Wales as she continues her gradual return to public duties.
Royal Commentator Fitzwilliams previously told GB News: “Her return has to be carefully balanced with health considerations but it’s really good news.
“She is cancer-free and is doing more. She is prioritising health.”
