Prince William and Princess Kate brought warmth and charm to Northern Ireland during a surprise day-long visit, sharing a tender moment as Kate gently rested her hand on William’s back.
The royal couple, both 43, explored the impressive new facilities at the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service’s £50 million Learning and Development College near Cookstown, County Tyrone.
Dressed in coordinated brown suede shoes, Kate wore her signature Alexander McQueen forest green midi coat, first unveiled in Bradford in 2020.
Together, the couple observed trainee firefighters tackle realistic rescue drills, including high-rise rope and ladder exercises and a fast-flowing river rescue simulation.
Touring World-Class Training Facilities
The £50 million college, opened in May, spans 50 acres and is the largest investment ever made by the NIFRS. Chief Fire & Rescue Officer Aidan Jennings guided the couple through the facility, which includes a replica village and advanced training warehouses.
The highlight for William and Kate was a flood water rescue simulator, one of only two in the world at a fire service training facility.
They also met recent graduates Piarais McCaffery and Caoimhe McNeice to hear firsthand about their experience at the rigorous 18-week course.
The couple rode a fire appliance to observe the simulated floodwater rescue, showcasing the cutting-edge operational training available to Northern Ireland’s next generation of firefighters.
NIFRS Celebrates the Royal Visit
Aidan Jennings described the visit as “a proud and unforgettable day” for the service.
He highlighted the dedication of the NIFRS personnel and their collaborative efforts with other emergency services.
“It was an honour to have the Prince and Princess witness how scenario-based training is transforming our approach and equipping our people for the evolving demands of modern fire and rescue work,” he said.
The royal couple’s visit also underscores their commitment to highlighting initiatives that promote growth, investment, and opportunities for young people in rural communities across Northern Ireland.
A First Joint Northern Ireland Visit in Three Years
This marks the first time William and Kate have visited Northern Ireland together since October 2022.
The visit comes amid preparations for a new chapter in their family life, with the couple hoping to move into their newly renovated Windsor home, Forest Lodge, by Bonfire Night.
Builders have worked tirelessly to accelerate the move from Adelaide Cottage, where the family previously lived, allowing the couple to settle in their new eight-bedroom Georgian mansion in time for November 5.
The home features a 150-acre Home Office-approved security cordon and extensive renovations, including stripped-out walls, new ceilings, and floors.
A Fresh Start for the Family
The couple hopes the move will provide a fresh start for their three children: Prince George, 12, Princess Charlotte, ten, and Prince Louis, seven.
After moving from Kensington Palace in 2022 to provide a more private, rural upbringing, the family faced several challenges, including the loss of Queen Elizabeth II and the release of controversial media projects involving the Duke and Duchess of Sussex.
Kate, who successfully completed preventative chemotherapy last year, has emerged in remission, focused on family life and her growing royal duties.
Sources say the couple is “excited for a fresh start” and ready to create happy memories in Forest Lodge.
Personal Touches and Future Plans
Kate has enjoyed decorating their new home, sourcing furniture and textiles from UK businesses such as Marina Mill in Kent, and embracing interior design projects for the family’s forever home.
Kensington Palace has confirmed that William and Kate intend to remain at Forest Lodge even after ascending the throne, a notable break from tradition.
No live-in staff will reside at the property, maintaining the family’s privacy, while employees have moved into nearby Windsor Great Park estate homes.
The refurbishment, funded personally by the couple, ensures a modern yet comfortable home while respecting the historic charm of the 328-year-old Grade-II listed mansion.