King Charles was mobbed by hundreds of school children and islanders during his historic visit to Bermuda, where he was officially welcomed with a ceremony full of pomp and pageantry. A 21-gun salute heralded the King's arrival in the aptly named King's Square, located in the heart of the British overseas territory's former capital, St George's.
Royal Welcome Ceremony
Charles stood in the centre of King's Square for the event, watched by a large crowd of excited school children and local residents. A guard of honour awaited him, and he was received by the Commanding Officer of the Royal Bermuda Regiment, Lieutenant Colonel Duncan Simons. The King stood on a dais as the royal salute was given by the troops and remained motionless while the national anthem was played by a regimental band. Parade Commander Major Kenji Bean then invited the King to inspect the guard of honour, walking alongside him as he strode past the troops.
Arrival in Bermuda
Charles arrived in Bermuda on Thursday evening after a four-day state visit to America, where he helped strengthen the UK-US special relationship. The monarchy's soft power diplomacy is seen as a key tool in supporting the UK's overseas interests, and it appears that his host, President Donald Trump, was won over. A parting gift from the US leader included the lifting of tariffs on Scottish whisky, following an intervention by the Queen and King.
Some islanders came prepared for the royal visit, including four-year-old Theo Godfrey, who was dressed as a guardsman in a red tunic and imitation bearskin hat. Many of the children lining the square waved Union flags. Theo's mother purchased the outfit from the official Buckingham Palace shop two years ago and joked that he had worn it ever since.
Engagements with the Public
After the official welcome, the King went to meet the crowds, shaking hands with well-wishers as the military band played Bob Marley and the Wailers' song Jamming. During the first full day of his tour, Charles will visit Trunk Island, home to the Living Classroom, an initiative that helps young people understand the island's ecosystem and encourages environmental stewardship.
Schedule of Events
In the capital Hamilton, the King will be received at City Hall by the Premier of Bermuda and the Mayor of Hamilton, who will present local councillors. Charles will also meet Bermuda-born Michael Frith, designer of many Muppets characters, and his wife Kathryn Mullen. They will briefly showcase their internationally acclaimed puppetry work and explain the Bermudian inspiration behind aspects of their creations.
At the Royal Naval Dockyard, the King will visit the Keep Yard and join members of the public to watch a performance by the National Gombey Dance Troupe. Charles will end the day with a garden party at Government House, featuring a cross-section of people representing Bermudian life.
