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The Princess of Wales Marks ANZAC Day at the Cenotaph and Westminster Abbey

The Princess of Wales Marks ANZAC Day at the Cenotaph and Westminster Abbey

The Princess of Wales marked ANZAC Day by attending ceremonies at the Cenotaph and Westminster Abbey.

This morning she took part in the Wreath Laying and Parade Service at the Cenotaph in Whitehall.

More from this People story

Anzac Day commemorates the anniversary of the 1915 Gallipoli landings in World War I, serving as a moment to honor members of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) who lost their lives in conflict and all those who have served. 

The Cenotaph is a national war memorial, meaning “empty tomb,” and where the British royal family commemorates Remembrance Day every November.  

And from The Telegraph’s story

More than 11,000 Australians and New Zealanders lost their lives in the Gallipoli campaign, which saw trench warfare, heat and disease inflict a toll as the Allies tried to take control of the Turkish straits against the forces of the Ottoman Empire.

The Princess placed a wreath on behalf of the King.

The card, signed “Catherine and William,” reads, “In memory of the Australian and New Zealand soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom.” 

Another view. 

We return to The Telegraph’s coverage

Rev Dr Lyndon Drake recited from The Fallen by English poet Laurence Binyon: “They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old; age shall not weary them nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun and in the morning, we will remember them.”

Here is another angle.

Military personnel at the Cenotaph.

A look at some of those participating in the parade.

Another photo from the ceremony at the Cenotaph. 

There was quite a sizable crowd at this morning’s ceremony. 

A video posted by Kensington Palace covering the Cenotaph events. 

Earlier today, the Princess Royal joined members of the Australian and New Zealand Armed Forces at a solemn ANZAC Day ceremony at Wellington Arch in Hyde Park.

After the Cenotaph commemorations concluded, the Princess of Wales headed to Westminster Abbey, where she was greeted by the Canon Rector, Reverend Mark Birch.

A quick video of the Princess arriving. 

She attended the annual Service of Commemoration and Thanksgiving

More from the Abbey’s website

At the start of the service, the flags of New Zealand, Australia, the Republic of Türkiye, and the United Kingdom were borne through the Abbey Church and placed in the Sacrarium.

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Bonnie A

Saturday 25th of April 2026

It was a stunning autumn ANZAC day here in Aotearoa New Zealand. Crisp, bright, sunny and reflective. I enjoyed spending time in nature and teaching my children about their ancestors and how their lives were so unfairly and sadly interrupted by World War I. My great grandfather was nothing short of a war hero with the medals to show it.

How wonderful to see the Princess of Wales out to mark the day. And in a complete stunner of an outfit. The deep dark navy and white is familiar national attire here and divine in this gorgeous McQueen coat. White or contrasting lapels are making regular appearances on the Princess and I am here for it. The navy accessories are also stunning, especially the suede pumps. The jewellery matches perfectly and is all the more striking showcased with this outfit. Oh, I iust love it.

Carola

Saturday 25th of April 2026

Catherine is truly a class act.

Lexi

Saturday 25th of April 2026

I don't think the Princess lay the wreath for the King, instead she lay it for the Prince of Wales and herself, as the signatures and the Prince of Wales white feathers clearly show.

Other wise, she looked perfect, the coatdress with white lapels and the jewellery was perfect for such an occasion and she performed her job with regal poise, which in my mind was helped by the lenght of the coat dress and high heels, can't get more royal than that.

Maybe she should have not turned her back to the cenotaph, before standing a moment in respect, but this is small potatoes.

The deep blue and white was just right for the occasion. I only hope that her jewellery collection would be a bit more versatile. The best quality deep blue earrings and the tanzanite pendant clashed in colour and style. I can not believe that the Royal Vaults would not include a substantial amount of necklaces or brooches in high quality sapphire to match her beautiful earrings.

If not, Catherine is now so high in hierarchy in the Royal Family that she deserves to have a few pieces bought/changed for her own needs. The previous Queen Consorts or Princesses if Wales have all had jewellery gifted/adapted to current fashion and/or their taste/need.

Well done Catherine!

Virgini,

Saturday 25th of April 2026

The pendant is so pretty! Would love to hear more about it!

Emilie

Saturday 25th of April 2026

Regal! Another fascinating post.

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