King Charles III has been pictured with a frothy pint of Guinness, complete with foam on his upper lip, during a recent visit to the Guinness Open Gate Brewery in London. This charming moment is far from an isolated incident, however, as the monarch has a long and well-documented history of enjoying a casual drink while engaging with communities across the UK and beyond.
A Lifelong Appreciation for a Pint
Photographers from the Press Association have captured the King, and previously the Prince of Wales, with an alcoholic beverage on numerous occasions over the decades. One of the earliest images dates back to 1974, showing a young Charles enjoying a pint at Cowdray Park after playing polo in the Spring Cup. On that occasion, he reportedly joked with waiting photographers about not bringing his then-girlfriend, American Laura Jo Watkins, to the event.
His royal duties have often taken him to pubs, where he has tried his hand at pulling a pint. While his technique has sometimes resulted in a less-than-perfect pour, his enthusiasm for supporting community pubs is unwavering. A notable visit took him to The Fleece Inn in Wotton-under-Edge, Gloucestershire, a pub supported by the Pub is The Hub initiative, where he was pictured with a half-pint of Guinness.
Royal Recognition and Family Traditions
Charles's affinity for beer has even earned him formal recognition. In 2002, he was named Beer Drinker of the Year for his service in promoting the industry. This tradition appears to be passing to the next generation, as his son, Prince William, has been photographed trying a special coronation brew named 'Kingmaker'. Even the Princess of Wales, Kate, has been seen enjoying a cider during official engagements.
The King's wife, Queen Camilla, has also joined him on several brewery and pub visits over the years. Furthermore, Charles's fondness for a drink extends overseas, such as when he sampled a pint at the Salone Del Gusto food festival in Italy in 2004.
More Than Just a Drink
These moments are more than simple photo opportunities; they highlight the King's longstanding commitment to community pubs as vital social hubs. His visits, whether to a local in Wales where he limited himself to a half, or to major breweries, consistently draw attention to the importance of the British pub and the brewing trade. Each raised glass serves as a toast to tradition, community, and a very relatable royal pastime.
