The King is joined by a favourite cousin for rare joint appearance at Mey Highland Games

King Charles attended the Mey Highland Games in Caithness over the weekend, and was joined by his favourite cousin, Lady Sarah Chatto, in a rare joint appearance that delighted spectators.

The monarch embraced tradition in a striking Balmoral tartan kilt – a royal pattern reserved exclusively for the sovereign – paired with a beige waistcoat, jacket, leather sporran, and red hose. His cousin, Lady Sarah Chatto, was seated just behind him as the pair took their places under the marquee at the John O’Groats Showground.

Also present at the games as guests of The King were Lady Sarah’s eldest son, Samuel Chatto, and his girlfriend, Eleanor Ekserdjian.

As Chieftain of the Mey Games, a role he inherited in 2002 from the late Queen Mother, the King presided over the event’s vibrant programme of traditional Scottish contests, including caber tossing, tug o’ war, Highland dancing and massed pipe bands.

In a moment emblematic of Highland hospitality, His Majesty was seen enjoying a dram of whisky, engaging warmly with competitors and local dignitaries alike.

The Mey Highland Games, established in 1970 to commemorate the Queen Mother’s 70th birthday, have since become a cherished annual tradition in Caithness, attracting visitors from across the country. King Charles has maintained a close connection to the event and the Highlands more generally, spending many summers at Balmoral and often donning traditional dress for engagements in Scotland.

The Balmoral tartan, worn by the King on this occasion, is one of the most exclusive tartans in the world. Created by Prince Albert in the 1850s, it is woven from 100% Scottish wool and reserved for the sovereign and the Sovereign’s Piper, symbolising the monarchy’s deep-rooted ties to Scotland.