A private evening of Scottish music, though William and Catherine were not among guests
King Charles and Queen Camilla welcomed a touch of tradition to Balmoral Castle during their annual summer retreat, hosting a private concert on Thursday evening (August 28). According to the Court Circular, the programme featured music performed at the 2023 Honours of Scotland Service, held last July at St Giles’ Cathedral in Edinburgh.
In attendance were Princess Anne and Prince Edward, accompanied by Vice-Admiral Sir Tim Laurence and Duchess Sophie. While Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson are also staying at Balmoral this summer, they were not reported to have joined the gathering.
The Prince and Princess of Wales were likewise absent from the evening. William and Catherine were last seen at Sunday service at Crathie Kirk with the King and Queen, before likely returning to Windsor ahead of the school term for their children.
No images of the concert have been released, keeping the occasion strictly private. The programme included Gaelic songs, regional dialects, and performances by Scottish musicians, reflecting the cultural themes of the Honours of Scotland ceremony.
Balmoral has been the royal family’s Highland retreat since 1852, offering both privacy and tradition. Beyond the formal occasions, the estate has long been a backdrop for family walks, fishing, and barbecues during the summer months.
