Queen Camilla and King Charles have kicked off the final day of their official visit to Northern Ireland with separate engagements across the region.
Queen Camilla's Engagement in Newtownards
Her Majesty visited Newtownards, where she spoke with volunteers from a charity that has supported up to 523 women and 364 children over the past year by providing vital aid to those facing domestic abuse. The Queen, 78, has long campaigned against domestic violence and sexual abuse, making it a cornerstone of her public work.
Dressed in a stylish blue Bruce Oldfield suit, previously worn to the 2024 Epsom Derby, Camilla also opted for a striking brooch with incredible historic significance. Featuring three turquoise stones in the shape of the national symbol of Ireland, it is believed to be the diamond and turquoise brooch gifted to the late Queen Elizabeth II ahead of her marriage to Prince Philip in 1947.
King Charles in County Down
Meanwhile, Charles paid a visit to County Down, where he met with Maurice Patton, founder of Ards Allotments, and his wife Judith Patton. The allotment was first established by Maurice after he watched footage on the news of Charles, then Prince of Wales, visiting an allotment more than 20 years ago.
During his visit, the King spoke with members of the Loughries Men's Shed Ukulele Ensemble and even had a go himself at playing the instrument. He also met the community of volunteers, gardeners, and growers who use the allotment space to grow fresh produce while contributing to the local economy.
Reunion at Conway Square
Following their separate engagements, Their Majesties reunited at Newtownards' Conway Square to meet members of the public during a two-day festival celebrating the local community. There, Charles and Camilla were joyously welcomed by a furry friend, while the Queen enjoyed an ice cream and wafer as she spoke with stallholders and local traders.
Previous Day's Activities
Yesterday, the King and Queen went their separate ways on the second day of their visit. Camilla enjoyed a stroll through the village of Hillsborough, just 12 miles from Belfast and home to Hillsborough Castle. She pulled a perfect pint of Guinness during a visit to The Parson's Nose pub, but insisted that King Charles was the real expert. 'It's a bit early to drink. I'll leave it here until later,' she laughed.
The King's first stop was the Newcastle Community Cinema, founded in 2008 by local film enthusiasts. As he arrived, he was given a special VIP ticket by Vera Edelstein. 'Is that for me?' he beamed, adding, 'That's very generous of you.' He then helped start a short trailer for the film A Quiet Love, about a deaf couple during the Troubles.
He also met Northern Irish actor Ian McElhinney, who starred in Derry Girls and Game of Thrones. Afterwards, he visited Donard Methodist Church, where he met volunteers from The Pantry Food Bank, causing giggles as he examined the contents of their boxes.
Their Majesties concluded the second day with a garden party at Hillsborough Castle, the official residence of the monarchy in Northern Ireland. They planted a Malus Royalty purple crab apple tree in honour of the occasion. Camilla met with officers from the 2nd Battalion The Rifles, of which she is Colonel-in-Chief.
