Princess Anne and Prince Charles were all smiles as they arrived at St Giles' Cathedral in Edinburgh for the biennial service of the Order of the Thistle, Scotland's highest order of chivalry. Donning the robes of the order, the royal siblings were cheered by hundreds of fans who had gathered behind police barriers to catch a glimpse of the Queen's children.
Prince Charles was appointed a Knight of the Order in February 1977, while Princess Anne became a Lady of the Order in November 2000. The late Prince Philip was also a Knight, appointed in April 1952, and Prince William is the most recent royal to join, having been installed in July 2012. The service is usually attended by all Knights and Ladies, though neither the Queen nor the Duke of Cambridge participated this year.
The Order of the Thistle is the second most important order in Britain's honours system, after the Order of the Garter. Alongside its royal members, it includes 16 Knights and Ladies who are Scottish individuals recognised for public service or contributions to national life.
The Queen is currently in Scotland for Holyrood Week, her annual visit from late June to early July. This week, she attended the Ceremony of the Keys, presented the Queen's Medal for Music to John Wallace, and held a private audience with First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, who recently confirmed plans for a second independence referendum.
Princess Anne and Prince Charles have also been carrying out engagements in Scotland, including visits to Strathcarron Hospice, an investiture ceremony, and a garden party at Holyroodhouse Palace. Prince Charles additionally visited the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh.
