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 behind the wheel of her own car.
The 44-year-old hosted England’s World Cup-winning women’s rugby team at Windsor Castle on Thursday, but it was her low-key arrival that caught the attention online.
In a video circulating on social media, an eyewitness saw Kate drive herself through the castle gates, get out of the driver’s seat and stride across the gravel in a striking red Alexander McQueen pantsuit.
The Prince and Princess of Wales live at Adelaide Cottage in Windsor Great Park, just a short 5.6-mile drive from the King’s Berkshire residence, close enough for a quick trip instead of a full motorcade.
While royal engagements often come with a chauffeur in tow, getting behind the wheel is hardly unprecedented.
Queen Elizabeth II famously loved driving around her private estates, often at the wheel of a Range Rover, while Prince Philip once played 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-powered models, reflecting his long-standing environmental interests.
