Fashion or Failing Health? King Charles Spotted With a Walking Stick In New Norfolk Picture

King Charles has had a difficult battle with cancer, having been diagnosed in February 2024. While the monarch continues to put on a brave face at engagements, his occasionally weary appearance has raised concerns among royal fans. On July 12, Sandringham Estate’s social media shared a new photo of the King walking through the Topiary Garden with his trusty wooden walking stick in Norfolk. Though Charles has previously used walking sticks as a style statement, the new portrait reignited debate over his health, given his cancer battle.

In the portrait taken by photographer Millie Pilkington, Charles was seen walking down a grit path, while a second image showed him glancing over a yew hedge, with one hand on his waist. As reported by Hello! magazine, royal fans have previously raised concerns over his use of walking sticks, noting that his late mother, Queen Elizabeth, relied on them heavily during her final years when her mobility was compromised. Despite the speculation, the outlet assures that the King's choice of accessory is simply that — a traditional country fair walking stick, rather than a walking aid. He has also been pictured using various walking sticks in royal portraits during his younger years and prior to his diagnosis.

Nevertheless, royal watchers have voiced concerns on X (formerly Twitter) over Charles’ use of walking sticks. A fan commented, "Looks terrible! cancer taking its toll!" In a similar vein, another echoed, "Umbrellas new walking sticks?" While Charles' new portrait shows him with a stick, fans have opined that it is actually a 'Shepherd's Crook' and is usually used in royal portraits. A netizen stressed, "It's a shepherd's crook and he's done that all his life." Similarly, a user said, "He's used a crook or stick for years." 

Charles has also been seen using a walking stick at the Chelsea Flower Show on May 19, when he made an appearance alongside Queen Camilla. Similarly, at a 2025 equestrian event with Prince Edward, he looked suave while carrying a walking aid. GB News also reported that the King has previously been photographed with stylish walking sticks in 2008, 2002, and 1998, among other occasions. In his case, the recent use of walking sticks appears to be primarily ornamental rather than a medical necessity.

A spokesperson from The Blue Badge Co, which makes walking sticks for people with disabilities, explained to Hello! magazine why the royals rely on them. They said, "A walking stick can relieve pressure on painful joints and can improve your balance. However, used incorrectly, a walking stick or cane could increase your risk of having a fall and may lead to injuring another area of your body." Charles was reportedly diagnosed with cancer following the examination of an enlarged prostate. While Buckingham Palace confirmed his diagnosis, they have refrained from providing regular updates on his health. His treatment is ongoing and is expected to continue in 2025.