King Charles III was joined by the Royal Family's newest member during a traditional festive outing to church in Sandringham this weekend.
A Festive Gathering at St Mary Magdalene Church
The King, 77, led the royal party on the short walk from Sandringham House to St Mary Magdalene Church for the Sunday morning service on 28 December 2025. The monarch is continuing the family's longstanding tradition of spending the Christmas period at the Norfolk estate.
He was accompanied by his youngest brother, Prince Edward, the Duke of Edinburgh, and Sophie, the Duchess of Edinburgh. Sophie chose a stylish beige coat for the occasion, paired with a darker brown hat and boots. The King's sister, Princess Anne, and her husband, Vice Admiral Sir Tim Laurence, were also present.
Surprise Appearance from Peter Phillips and His Fiancée
Adding a fresh dynamic to the traditional gathering was a surprise appearance from Peter Phillips, the King's eldest nephew. He attended with his fiancée, Harriet Sperling, who looked festive in a checked outfit. The couple's presence was notable as Peter did not join the wider royal family for Christmas Day itself earlier in the week.
Reports suggest the pair opted for a quieter celebration this year, spending the day with Harriet's family. This marks a change from the previous year, when NHS nurse Harriet was scheduled to work. The couple, who got engaged in August 2024 after a year of dating, are set to marry, at which point Harriet will officially become a member of the Royal Family.
Extended Family Joins the Festive Tradition
The royal congregation was further bolstered by the presence of the King's cousin, David Armstrong-Jones, the Earl of Snowdon. He was joined by his two children, Lady Margarita Armstrong-Jones and Charles, Viscount Linley. The group paused to exchange warm greetings with well-wishers who had gathered to see them, with the King sharing a few words.
This public appearance comes just days after the King's annual Christmas Message was broadcast to the nation and the Commonwealth. The sight of the family walking together to the local church underscores the continuity of royal traditions during the festive season, now welcoming its newest prospective member into the fold.
