The monarch receives keys to the city in a powerful moment steeped in royal tradition
King Charles III began Holyrood Week with a heartfelt moment as he took part in the historic Ceremony of the Keys in Edinburgh on Tuesday, July 1. The annual event, which officially welcomes the sovereign to the Scottish capital, saw the 76-year-old monarch visibly emotional during the symbolic exchange.
Dressed in a grey suit and vibrant striped tie, the King received the ceremonial keys from Lord Provost Robert Aldridge in the gardens of the Palace of Holyroodhouse—his official residence in Scotland. As tradition dictates, His Majesty returned the keys, entrusting them to the city’s safekeeping.
The royal family shared highlights of the day on Instagram, captioning the images:
“Today, the historic Ceremony of the Keys took place in the Gardens of the Palace of Holyroodhouse.” They added, “Dating back centuries, this tradition symbolises Edinburgh welcoming its monarch.”
The King's Bodyguard for Scotland, founded in 1822 during King George IV’s reign, provided the Guard of Honour for the event. Music from the Band of the Royal Regiment of Scotland and their Pipes and Drums added to the grandeur of the occasion.
During the visit, King Charles was warmly received by military personnel and uniformed dignitaries, with Queen Camilla also by his side for the week's engagements.
Following the moving ceremony, the King is set to host an investiture ceremony and a garden party at the palace, further honouring Scotland’s traditions and its relationship with the monarchy. Holyrood Week continues to be a key moment in the royal calendar, and King Charles’s presence in Edinburgh reinforces his commitment to all corners of the United Kingdom.
