The Princess of Wales’ most eye-catching royal moments happen before the cameras are even properly rolling.
This week, Kate quietly arrived at her own engagement in her own car.
The 44-year-old welcomed the World Cup-winning England women’s rugby team to Windsor Castle on Thursday, but it was her low-key arrival that attracted attention online.
In a video circulating on social media, an eyewitness saw Kate walk through the castle gates herself, get out of the driver’s seat and walk across the gravel in a bright red Alexander McQueen pantsuit.
The Prince and Princess of Wales live at Adelaide Cottage in Windsor Great Park, just a 3.6-mile drive from the King’s Berkshire residence, close enough for a quick tour rather than a full motorcade.
Although royal engagements often come with a chauffeur, getting behind the wheel is not unprecedented.
Queen Elizabeth II enjoyed driving around her private estates, often behind the wheel of a Range Rover, while Prince Philip was once the chauffeur for former US President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle Obama during their visit to Windsor in 2016.
The tradition continues today in a slightly greener form. King Charles has developed a penchant for eco-friendly vehicles and has been seen driving electric cars and even hydrogen models, reflecting his long-standing environmental interests.
