On April 25th, 2026, both the Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton, and the Princess Royal, Princess Anne, took part in separate commemorative events to honour Anzac Day in London. This national holiday marks the anniversary of the Gallipoli landings during World War I, commemorating the sacrifices made by members of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) who lost their lives in battle.
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Anzac Day, a public holiday in both Australia and New Zealand, serves as a poignant reminder of the bravery and contributions of the ANZAC troops. Each year, members of the British royal family attend various observances to pay their respects, a tradition that underscores their ongoing support for Commonwealth nations.
Princess Anne initiated the day’s events by attending the Dawn Service at Wellington Arch, located at Hyde Park Corner. This ceremony featured solemn readings, the evocative sound of the Last Post, moments of silence, and the national anthems of both Australia and New Zealand. Attendees laid wreaths to honour those who have served, marking the event with poignant tributes.
At the age of 75, Princess Anne is frequently cited as one of the royal family’s most dedicated members, boasting a high volume of official engagements, as reflected in The Court Circular. Her presence at the Dawn Service reflects her commitment to royal duties and her profound respect for the ties shared between the UK and its Commonwealth partners.
Later that morning, Princess Kate made her way to The Cenotaph for the Wreath Laying and Parade Service. This significant national war memorial, whose name translates to “empty tomb,” has been the central site for British royal commemorations, particularly during Remembrance Day in November. Princess Kate laid a wreath on behalf of her father-in-law, King Charles III, as an acknowledgment of the sacrifices made throughout multiple conflicts.
Following her participation at The Cenotaph, the Princess of Wales attended a Service of Commemoration and Thanksgiving at Westminster Abbey. This site holds personal significance for her, as it is where she married Prince William in 2011. The service featured an address from the Dean of Westminster, readings from both the New Zealand and Australian High Commissioners, and prayers led by children from each nation. To commemorate the cultural ties, a traditional Māori waiata was performed by Ngāti Rānana, a Māori cultural club based in London.
The royal engagement took place shortly after Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s trip to Australia, marking the couple’s first visit to the continent since their 2018 royal tour. Kensington Palace had confirmed Princess Anne and Princess Kate’s participation in Anzac Day activities a week prior, indicating the continued connection between the royals and the Commonwealth.
During their visit to Australia, Prince Harry paid tribute to those Australian lives lost in conflicts at the Australian War Memorial and attended the Last Post Ceremony. The Duke of Sussex, who currently engages with the country in an independent capacity following his departure from royal duties in 2020, donned his military medals during the memorial visit, symbolising his decade of service in the British Army.
Such royal acts highlight the enduring relationships between the UK and Australia, especially on occasions that evoke deep feelings of history and sacrifice. With both Princess Anne and Princess Kate reaffirming their commitments to honouring those who have served, Anzac Day remains a significant occasion that fosters remembrance and reflection within the fabric of British and Commonwealth relations.