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.
