The Princess of Wales has expressed her desire to take her children to Australia and New Zealand now that they are a bit older.
During a visit to the Sergeants’ Mess at Wellington Barracks, following the annual St Patrick’s Day parade, Kate spoke with Irish Guardsmen and their families, having generously put money behind the bar for their celebrations.
Speaking with Corporal Adam Hamilton, an Australian reservist, she shared: “George finds it fascinating that he has been to Australia and New Zealand. I would love to take them back now—it’s just about finding the time. I love to travel; yes, it’s a long flight, but I think it’s brilliant to experience new places. The Middle East is also familiar to me from growing up, so I enjoy going there as well.”
She acknowledged the challenge of balancing official visits with personal travel: “We tend to go further afield for royal engagements, but I’d love to experience these countries in a more private capacity. Otherwise, you end up seeing the inside of incredible buildings without truly meeting people. It’s about finding a way to combine work with family time. Maybe I’ll see you down there!”
For the occasion, Kate wore a bottle green Alexander McQueen coat, a matching hat, and the gold shamrock Cartier brooch of the Irish Guards.
During her conversations, she also spoke about her family’s home, saying: “We’re in Windsor at the moment. We were in London but moved for more green space. It’s close enough to London, but not too far away.”
In a lighthearted moment, Kate discussed her husband’s facial hair with section commanders in the bar, remarking: “These trends come and go. I was saying to my husband, I’m not sure how long he’s going to keep his for!”
She also engaged with young guests, speaking to Noah Hogan, whose father is Company Sergeant Major John Hogan, about his passion for football. “Our kiddies play football too. Do your parents come to watch? Do you like the idea of being in the Army?” she asked.
Noting that Noah’s brother was the same age as Prince George, she inquired: “So, no exams for you this year?” Upon learning he had recently joined the Army cadets, she praised the experience: “You get to try so many different things. The military offers such a variety of career paths—it’s really exciting. Recruitment is something I’m very keen to support.”
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