Emotional moment at Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival highlights royal bond
Duchess Sophie won widespread admiration with a heartfelt gesture during her surprise appearance at the RHS Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival on July 1.
Attending on behalf of King Charles, the Duchess of Edinburgh honored both the monarch and Princess Catherine by visiting the festival's rose display, where she played “The King's Rose” and “Catherine’s Rose” in tribute. In a particularly moving moment, she gently kissed “Catherine’s Rose,” introduced to celebrate the Princess of Wales following her courageous cancer battle.
The touching act was shared in a video released by the royal family, showing Sophie beaming as she toured the gardens. The scene struck an emotional chord, with royal watchers remarking that both the King and Catherine would have struggled to hold back tears.
Sophie looked elegant in a floral-print midi dress with statement jewelry, charming guests and spreading joy throughout the event. The Palace noted that she also spent time with local schoolchildren, discussing environmental practices and the joy of horticulture, alongside beloved British television characters, The Wombles.
The moment underscored the warmth and respect between Sophie, the King, and the Princess of Wales, cementing her place as one of the most cherished members of the royal family.
