The Princess Royal has officially opened a memorial to Queen Elizabeth II on the 100th anniversary of her mother’s birth.
Princess Anne was in Regent’s Park to open the Queen Elizabeth II memorial garden which provides a tranquil place in the heart of London.
As well as unveiling a plaque marking the official opening of the space, the Princess met some of those who have created the garden.
She spoke to some of the horticulturalists who have worked on the extensive grounds which feature flowered arches and water.
The tribute was part of a day of celebrations marking the 100th anniversary of Queen Elizabeth II’s birth. King Charles and Queen Camilla went to the British Museum to see the final plans for the national memorial which will be unveiled in tribute to the longest reigning Monarch in British history.
Among the designs are a glass cast bridge echoing the shape of the tiara that Elizabeth II wore on her wedding day and statues of both the late Queen and Prince Philip.
Later on in the day, King Charles and Queen Camilla hosted a reception at Buckingham Palace where they presented cards to three people marking their 100th birthday on 21st April 2026, the centenary of Elizabeth II. They also met representatives of some of the charities that were supported by Elizabeth II.
The Prince and Princess of Wales also attended the reception with Kate choosing a pale pink dress that echoed a favourite colour of Queen Elizabeth II. The Princess also wore a three strand pearl necklace that belonged to the late Queen and a pair of pearl earrings made from jewels given to her on her wedding day in 1947.
There was a surprise appearance from Princess Alexandra, a cousin of the late Queen, who has recently retired from royal engagements at the age of 88. Her older brother, the 90 year old Duke of Kent, continues with his engagements. He was also at the reception.
