Following her trip to join The Queen in Scotland for the second half of Holyrood Week,The Princess Royal has visited Northern Ireland for a full day of engagements. The visit celebrated both the 100 year anniversary of Northern Ireland and volunteering efforts throughout the global health crisis.
Princess Anne began with a visit to Antrim, where she went to Antrim Castle Gardens. She met with both volunteers and the Castle gardening team, where she talked with volunteers about their experiences, as well different gardening projects that are underway. She then presented them with the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service, to recognise all of their work for the community.
Princess Anne also met with staff from Antrim and Newtonabbey Council, being recognised for all of their work and dedication to the community.
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She finished her day with a visit to Hillsborough Castle. At a reception the Princess Royal met people from across Northern Ireland who have given back to their communities during the global health crisis, including frontline healthcare workers. She also toured the Hillsborough Castle Gardens.
The Princess Royal met with Colin Dickson there, too. He showed her the new breed of rose grown to mark the centenary, the NI Centenary Rose, that he bred. According to Dickson Roses, “[I]t is a blend of rose pink, ivory and pale yellow semi-double blooms”. He also presented Anne with a rose pin to mark the occasion.
Hillsborough Castle is the official home of the Monarch in Northern Ireland. From 1924 to 1971, it was the home of the Governor of Northern Ireland. Since 2014, it is been managed by Historic Royal Palaces, who also manage Hampton Court Palace and the Tower of London, as well as other properties.
The Royal Family has been getting back to in person engagements, with many members of the family visiting communities across the UK.
