Since announcing she had finished chemotherapy last September, Kate Middleton has gradually returned to public engagements. And now it has been announced that next week she and Prince William will spend two days in the Scottish Isles meeting communities and highlighting conservation efforts.
“The Duke and Duchess of Rothesay will visit the Isles of Mull and Iona on Tuesday 29th and Wednesday 30th April to celebrate and connect with rural island communities,” Kensington Palace said in a statement today, reflecting the fact that William and Kate go by these different titles when in Scotland. The Isle of Mull is off the west coast of Scotland and has a population of close to 3,000. Iona is its tiny neighbor with a population of just 170.
“During their visit to the Scottish Isles, Their Royal Highnesses will spend time with members of the local community reflecting on the power of social connection and the importance of protecting and championing the natural environment, two subjects which are close to both of Their Royal Highnesses’ hearts,” Kensington Palace said.
The two days of engagements will be Kate’s biggest work trip since her gradual return to public duties began. Since last September, she has carried out selected individual engagements and she and William also spent the day in Wales in January ahead of St David’s Day. The Princess’s last public appearance was in her role of Colonel of the Irish Guards on March 17, St Patrick’s Day, when she attended the regiment’s annual parade at Wellington Barracks. The Wales family daily did not attend the Easter Sunday service in Windsor with the rest of the royal family this year as they were in Norfolk while the children were still on their school holidays.
During their time on the Isle of Mull next week, William and Kate will visit a community hub and market in the town of Tobermory. They will also join school children in outdoor learning. “The landscapes and communities on the Scottish Isles provide a sharp contrast to how many of us in more urban environments live,” Kensington Palace said. “These island communities offer a powerful model for fostering a more loving, empathetic, and compassionate society though deeper connections with our surroundings and engaging more in shared endeavours.”
Town & Country Contributing Editor Victoria Murphy has reported on the British Royal Family since 2010. She has interviewed Prince Harry and has travelled the world covering several royal tours. She is a frequent contributor to Good Morning America. Victoria authored Town & Country book The Queen: A Life in Pictures, released in 2021.