Prince William and the Princess of Wales, Kate, delighted local communities with a surprise visit to Northern Ireland on Tuesday, engaging in a full day of hands-on activities and charming interactions.
The couple’s trip, their first together to the region since October 2022, combined playful moments with serious insight into local industries and emergency services.
Baking Fun at Long Meadow Cider Farm
Their first stop took them to Long Meadow Cider in County Armagh, a family-run orchard famous for its cider, apple juice, and apple cider vinegar.
Donning aprons, William and Kate rolled up their sleeves to make potato apple bread alongside owners Pat and Catherine McKeever.
The Prince quickly showed off his cheeky side, joking about the apple peeling process: “If we are peeling every apple, you are going to have to start helping. We’ll be here a while.”
When Pat requested thick apple slices, William couldn’t resist a playful quip: “You’ll get what you’re given,” and teased Kate to keep up with the baking pace.
Kate, by contrast, perfectly rolled her dough into a circle, prompting William to laugh: “How does that look like a circle when this is a rectangle?” Fans on social media were charmed by the royal banter, praising their authenticity and sense of humor.
Exploring Apple Production and Sustainable Practices
The couple observed the cider production process, including apple pressing and bottling.
Kate reflected on trying similar methods at home with her children, describing the experience as “messy but fun.”
Both William and Kate praised the farm’s innovative approach to sustainability while celebrating its heritage.
They also joined in on apple harvesting, picking golden delicious and Bramley varieties.
Kate filled her basket quickly, teasing William not to drop the fruit.
William admired the orchard, remarking to the McKeevers, “The trees are like something from Harry Potter.”
Hands-On Learning at the Fire and Rescue College
Next, the royals visited the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service’s £50 million Learning and Development College near Cookstown and County Tyrone.
They toured the facility, witnessing simulated rescues from fast-flowing rivers, high-rise buildings, and smoke-filled environments.
William and Kate even took part in a flood rescue drill, attempting to throw a line to a “casualty” swept by the current.
Kate joked she wished she could drive the fire truck with sirens on, much to the amusement of trainee firefighter Caoimhe McNeice.
The couple met graduates of the 18-week course, hearing about their experiences and learning how the training helps firefighters handle real-life emergencies confidently.
William was particularly curious about the equipment, exclaiming, “There are so many toys! So much kit!”
Reviving Linen Heritage at Mallon Farm
Later, William and Kate visited Mallon Farm in County Tyrone to learn about traditional flax and linen production.
Kate enthusiastically tried her hand at breaking flax fibers by hand, while William admired the restored machinery.
The couple explored the entire linen process, from harvesting flax to spinning and weaving, noting the importance of sustainability and craftsmanship.
Kate appreciated the “intergenerational storytelling” behind the craft and spoke about the value of knowing a product’s complete journey from farm to finished piece.
The farm’s owners highlighted their mission to revive skills lost to mass production, emphasizing collaboration and sustainable practices rather than large-scale expansion.
William and Kate’s visit brought attention and support to these efforts, demonstrating the royals’ interest in both heritage and innovation.
Celebrating Northern Ireland’s Creativity and Community Spirit
Throughout the day, the Prince and Princess of Wales balanced fun and learning, whether baking, harvesting apples, watching firefighters in training, or exploring linen production.
They engaged warmly with staff, trainees, and business owners, showcasing genuine curiosity and encouraging Northern Ireland’s next generation of creative and rural entrepreneurs.
The visit highlighted a mix of lighthearted moments, such as playful quips and baking competitions, alongside meaningful engagement with communities and industries shaping the region’s future.
William and Kate left a lasting impression, supporting local heritage, innovation, and sustainability while bringing a touch of royal charm to every encounter.