Kate Middleton Opens Up About Health Changes Following Cancer Diagnosis
The Prince and Princess of Wales made an unexpected appearance at the Bermondsey Beer Mile in London today, where they engaged in beer tasting and brewing activities. During the visit, Princess Kate provided a rare personal update regarding her health, specifically mentioning adjustments she has made since her cancer diagnosis.
Princess Kate's Candid Remarks on Alcohol Consumption
While touring the Fabal beerhall, Kate, 44, was invited to sample some beer and cider by owner Hannah Rhodes. In response, the Princess of Wales revealed, "Since my diagnosis I haven't had much alcohol." She further explained, "It's something I have to be a lot more conscious of now." Rhodes respectfully offered Kate a soft drink instead, to which she agreed.
Kate, who underwent chemotherapy in 2024 and announced her remission last year, turned to her husband during the conversation. Patting Prince William's knee, she remarked, "But you like your cider, don't you?" William then proceeded to taste various beers and ciders, including those from Rhodes' brand Hiver, which utilizes honey as a sugar substitute in fermentation.
Royal Expertise in Beekeeping and Brewing
The princess, an experienced beekeeper with hives at Anmer Hall in Norfolk, demonstrated her knowledge by sampling honey from a jar. She noted, "If you take the honey off the hive in early summer it tastes very different." Discussing the harvesting process, Kate added, "If you take the honey off when it's wet it is a natural fermentation process anyway." William humorously warned others, "She knows a lot about bees. Be careful what you say, you might be corrected."
Earlier in the day, the royal couple visited the Southwark Brewing Company, where they participated in brewing activities under railway arches. William, wearing black rubber gloves, added hops to a kettle, commenting on the distinctive smell. Kate then ascended a ladder to stir the mixture. The pair also engaged in a friendly pint-pulling competition, with owner Peter Jackson jokingly offering them weekend shifts.
Community Engagement and Charitable Visit
During their time at the brewery, William made a video call to Jackson's son, Will, who was celebrating his 34th birthday in Manchester. The prince extended birthday wishes and humorously inquired about payment arrangements for the celebration dinner. Reflecting on the importance of pubs, William stated, "Pubs are so important... Places for people and the community to come together."
Following their brewery visits, the couple traveled by boat to the RNLI Tower Lifeboat Station on the Thames. There, they learned about the crew's lifesaving work along the river, met volunteers, and discussed preparations for upcoming events like the Boat Race. This visit coincides with the RNLI marking the 25th anniversary of its lifeguard service, which patrols beaches and supports major river events across Britain.
The Prince of Wales had previously visited the station's former site in 2016 and has met RNLI crews in locations such as Cornwall and Anglesey. Today's engagements highlighted both personal health reflections and royal support for local businesses and charitable organizations.
