Prince William and Princess Kate Surprise Visit to Northern Ireland

COOKSTOWN, Northern Ireland — Prince William and Princess Kate made an unannounced visit to Northern Ireland on October 14. The royal couple, both 43, engaged with local organizations and took part in community activities throughout the day.

Their first stop was the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service‘s new Learning and Development College in Cookstown. Opened in May, this facility represents the largest investment in the NIFRS’s history and serves as a training center for all fire service employees.

During their visit, the couple participated in training drills and learned how the college prepares future firefighters. They met with Chief Fire and Rescue Officer Aidan Jennings, who explained the college’s innovative programs and facilities, including a flood water rescue simulator.

“It was great to showcase our Learning and Development College to them,” said graduate Piarais McCaffery. “Both royals were very genuine and interested, especially in our water facility.”

For her first engagement, Princess Kate wore an olive green Alexander McQueen coat dress, which she last showcased in 2020. After participating in the rescue drills, she changed into a shorter coat and flat shoes for their next visit.

The couple then headed to Mallon Farm in County Tyrone, which is leading an eco-friendly revival of flax growing for linen production. Princess Kate got hands-on experience with a heritage machine used for the flax processing.

At the farm, William and Kate learned about the flax production process from farmers Helen Keys and Charlie Mallon. The couple also met with local linen designers and manufacturers, further emphasizing the importance of the British textiles industry.

Princess Kate, a long-time advocate for the British textiles sector, highlighted the industry’s cultural significance and its role in the creative voice of the U.K. Her family has personal ties to the industry through her paternal ancestors who owned William Lupton & Co., a wool trading firm in Leeds.

This surprise trip to Northern Ireland fits into a busy fall schedule for the royals. They plan to continue supporting local initiatives and highlighting community efforts leading up to the holiday season.