King Charles and Queen Camilla host garden party at Buckingham Palace as Catherine heads to Italy

King Charles and Queen Camilla swap seats with Ant and Dec

|

TBI MEDIA / THE KING'S TRUST

Dorothy Reddin

By Dorothy Reddin


Published: 12/05/2026

- 16:31

The Duke and Duchess of Gloucester joined Their Majesties at the Palace

King Charles and Queen Camilla hosted a garden party at Buckingham Palace today, attended by the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester.

The party was thrown to celebrate frontline workers from across the United Kingdom.


In addition, the Palace was recognising the dedication and contribution of those who serve their communities through volunteering, supporting charitable causes and working for emergency services.

The Prince and Princess of Wales were absent as Catherine, 44, is travelling to Italy for a solo royal trip.

Meanwhile, Prince William was carrying out engagements at Windsor Castle earlier today.

The King and Queen's appearance follows Monday evening, when they attended a 50th anniversary celebration of the King's Trust at the Royal Albert Hall.

The royal couple, both in high spirits, walked the red carpet at the iconic London venue where they were greeted by television hosts Ant and Dec.

Charles joked with the presenting duo, noting it had been "a long time" since their last meeting and complimenting them on their youthful appearance.

King Charles and Queen Camilla

King Charles and Queen Camilla at the garden party with the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester

|

PA

Anthony McPartlin, 50, quipped in response that he had "a lot of makeup on".

Inside the venue, the King and Queen mingled with an impressive roster of British acting talent, including Benedict Cumberbatch, Gareth Southgate, and Idris Elba.

As the King took his seat in the royal box, singer Ruby Turner performed the national anthem, with the audience rising to join in.

Elsewhere, Sir Rod Stewart created an uncomfortable moment for King Charles on the red carpet.

Queen Camilla

Queen Camilla greeting royal fans at Buckingham Palace

|

GETTY

The rock singer addressed the King directly about his recent American state visit, declaring: "May I say well done in the Americas.

"You were superb. Absolutely superb. You put that little rat bag in his place."

The remark appeared to reference King Charles's April trip to the United States, during which he met with President Trump.

The singer's comments drew swift criticism from royal watchers online, who took issue with Sir Rod pulling the constitutionally neutral monarch into political territory.

King Charles

King Charles holding his top hat during the garden party

|

GETTY

Earlier today, Queen Camilla welcomed supporters of Medical Detection Dogs to Clarence House.

Camilla held the reception in her capacity as Patron of the charity, a role she has held since 2014.

Among those who attended the reception was the Princess of Wales's younger brother, James Middleton, who shared a friendly kiss on the cheek with the Queen as they greeted each other at Clarence House.

Mr Middleton has many dogs of his own at his countryside home. He has also written a memoir titled Meet Ella: The Dog Who Saved My Life, and he's praised his late dog as his "teacher, therapist, and best friend" during tough times.