Queen Camilla and King Charles Show Off an Unexpected Skill on Their Surprise Belfast Visit
King Charles and Queen Camilla made an unannounced visit to Belfast on Tuesday, just hours after opening the Chelsea Flower Show.
King Charles and Queen Camilla are known to engage in cultural activities whenever they are on a foreign visit. Recently, they made an unannounced visit to Belfast, Northern Ireland, on Tuesday, just hours after opening the Chelsea Flower Show with a star-studded guest list. The reason behind their visit appears to be rooted in a cause close to Charles’ heart. Belfast is set to host the prestigious Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann, which is the biggest celebration of traditional Irish music, song and dance, for the first time in August this year. To show their commitment to the cause, the King and Queen played a traditional instrument as well.
It had been raining in Belfast when the monarchs arrived. However, that didn’t stop them from taking part in the festivities. Charles and Camilla visited Thompson Dock and even tried their hand at playing bodhran, a traditional Irish frame drum. The King, who has always been musically inclined, could be seen having fun, despite the rain. Camilla took her husband’s lead as she too tested out her drumming skills. The King was beaming with joy, as not only was he surrounded by a vivid culture, but he was also taking part in it. Apart from playing music, he went on to speak to Irish dancers present at the Dock.
Buckingham Palace released a statement about the unannounced visit, which said, “The King and Queen are delighted to be returning to Northern Ireland. This visit will provide Their Majesties with an opportunity to reconnect with the people of Northern Ireland, for whom they hold deep admiration and friendship,” according to Hello!.
Like much of their joint outings, Charles and Camilla were in sync in Belfast as well. Holding a transparent umbrella, the Queen Consort looked regal in a floral dress. She had worn a turquoise overcoat to protect herself against the cold. She completed her look with a blue scarf and a beige purse.
As for Charles, he wore a dark grey blazer, matching trousers, a crisp white shirt, a patterned turquoise-blue tie, and a blue and white pocket square. While Camilla used an umbrella to shield herself from the rain, the King seemed to brave the showers without the need for any other gear.
Since the visit was a complete surprise, it is unclear what the monarchs’ itinerary will be in Belfast.
