Princess Kate dashed past her protection officers on Tuesday after spotting a well-wisher clutching flowers who appeared crestfallen as the royal couple prepared to leave a tartan-weaving studio in Scotland.
The Princess of Wales, 44, rushed towards the woman, expressed her gratitude for the bouquet, and stopped to take a photograph together in what onlookers described as a genuinely heartfelt exchange.
The fan's expression transformed from disappointment to joy as the princess approached her during the walkabout in Falkirk.
The spontaneous moment occurred as Kate and Prince William, known as the Duke and Duchess of Rothesay north of the border, undertook a two-day tour promoting Scottish heritage traditions.
Kate dashes past security officers as Princess of Wales 'goes off-script'
|GETTY
The footage of the mother-of-three racing in high-heeled boots quickly circulated online, drawing widespread admiration.
One viewer on YouTube observed that the couple "must drive their security crazy [by] going off-script" constantly, adding: "But that is why the people love them so much."
A user on X remarked that "only she would do that," describing the gesture as a "beautiful reminder of how deeply she truly cares about people."
Several commentators noted her "perfect poise even while running in heels," whilst others drew parallels between Kate's rapport with crowds and the connection Princess Diana shared with admirers.
Princess Kate greeting royal fans in Scotland
|GETTY
The royal couple commenced their Scottish engagements with a visit to the iconic Kelpies sculpture before heading to the National Curling Academy in Stirling, where both tried their hand at the winter sport.
Princess Kate subsequently received a masterclass in tartan weaving at Radical Weavers, a local studio and independent charity, operating the loom whilst William held her navy Savile Row coat.
The princess wore a tartan jacket that had not been previously seen in public, paired with a black polo neck, a coordinating skirt, and Gianvito Rossi boots.
Their final engagement took them to "The Goth," a pub in Falkirk, where William declared he "absolutely loves pubs."
Princess Kate wore a tartan coat which she helped design
|GETTY
LATEST ROYAL NEWS:
Princess Kate beamed as she met all the fans
|GETTY
Kate and William appeared notably affectionate throughout their Scottish visit, frequently exchanging tender gestures between official duties.
During the walkabout in Falkirk, the couple were seen with their arms around one another whilst meeting members of the public, with William drawing his wife close for a photograph with a fan.
At the curling academy, the prince carefully guided the princess onto the ice, ensuring she was steady before they began their session.
Despite their well-documented competitive natures, both were photographed beaming at each other's attempts at the sport, with Kate offering encouragement, telling her husband: "You're doing very well."