On May 8th, King Charles graciously hosted Buckingham Palace’s inaugural garden party of the season, a time-honored tradition dating back to the late 1800s. This regal affair coincided with Prince Harry’s arrival in London for the prestigious Invictus Games ceremony. While King Charles was accompanied by Queen Camilla and esteemed members of the royal family, Prince Harry attended the illustrious 10th-anniversary service at St. Paul’s Cathedral unaccompanied.
The garden party, a symbol of elegance and grandeur, saw King Charles, and Queen Camilla extend their warm hospitality to over 8,000 distinguished guests. Among the esteemed attendees were close relatives, including Anne, Princess Royal; the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh, Prince Edward and Sophie; and the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester, Prince Richard and Birgitte. Notably absent were Prince William and Kate Middleton, as reported by the Mirror. King Charles, exuding regal charm, was attired in a dignified grey suit complemented by a light blue waistcoat, as revealed by the outlet.
Anticipation swirled regarding a potential reunion between Prince Harry and his father during his visit to the UK. However, a spokesperson for the Duke clarified that King Charles’ busy schedule precluded such a meeting. “In response to the many inquiries and continued speculation on whether or not the Duke will meet with his father while in the U.K. this week, it, unfortunately, will not be possible due to His Majesty’s full program,” the spokesperson conveyed to The Telegraph.
Despite the absence of immediate family members, Prince Harry was accompanied by notable figures, including his cousin Louis Spencer, uncle Earl Charles Spencer, and aunt Lady Jane Fellowes. Also present were his confidant Mark “Marko” Dyer, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s wife Akshata Murty, and his lawyer David Sherbourne. Prince Harry received an enthusiastic welcome from the jubilant crowd gathered outside St. Paul’s Cathedral, indicative of his enduring popularity and the affection of the public.