Princess Anne presented her sister-in-law, Queen Camilla, in a rare and touching joint engagement, with an Honorary Doctorate of Literature from the University of London on Wednesday evening.
The ceremony at Senate House in central London coincided with the university’s Foundation Day, celebrating its establishment by the Royal Charter in 1836.
The event highlighted the camaraderie between the two royal women, who arrived together after sharing a car ride from St James’s Palace. Queen Camilla, 77, was recognized for her nearly two-decade-long dedication to promoting literacy and literature, notably through her initiative, The Queen’s Reading Room.
As the two approached the ceremony, their warmth and mutual respect were evident. In a charming exchange, Camilla invited Anne to enter the room first, but Anne graciously deferred to royal protocol, insisting the Queen lead. They then greeted fellow honorees and their families, showcasing their close bond.
Queen Camilla’s connection to the University of London dates back to her early studies in French and French literature at its Paris institute.
During the event, Sir Mark Lowcock, Chair of the Board of Trustees, praised her contributions, stating, “Her Majesty’s work has touched countless lives and will continue to inspire future generations of readers and writers.”
The ceremonial moment saw Camilla kneeling on a stool as Princess Anne draped the honorary hood over her shoulders. The two shared a lighthearted exchange during the handshake, reflecting their natural rapport.
This honor places Queen Camilla among an illustrious group of past royal recipients, including King George V, Queen Mary, and Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother.
Other luminaries were also celebrated for their societal contributions, including Dr. Nahim Ahmed MBE and Professor Sir Michael Arthur, further emphasizing the importance of the occasion.
Following the ceremony, Princess Anne, who has served as Chancellor of the University of London since 1981, inspected a Guard of Honour composed of the University’s Officer Training Corps and Royal Naval Unit. She also delivered the Chancellor’s Welcome, reflecting on the university’s legacy and its role in education and culture.
The engagement followed the previous evening’s diplomatic reception at Buckingham Palace, where Queen Camilla made a striking appearance wearing Queen Elizabeth II’s aquamarine and diamond tiara.
Complementing the tiara was a blue velvet evening gown by Fiona Clare, along with aquamarine and diamond jewelry from Camilla’s personal collection. She completed the look with King Charles’s newly designed family order.
The reception, one of the royal calendar’s grandest events, welcomed over 500 members of the Diplomatic Corps and underscored the monarchy’s role in fostering international relations.
Senior royals, including King Charles and Prince William, attended the event, though the Princess of Wales was notably absent as she prepared for her upcoming Christmas carol concert at Westminster Abbey.
