British Royals attend Order of the Thistle Service in Scotland

The British Royal Family attended the Order of the Thistle Service in Edinburgh.

King Charles and Queen Camilla were joined by the Duke of Rothesay (as Prince William is known in Scotland) and the Duke of Edinburgh at the Order of the Thistle Service at St Giles’ Cathedral. The Royals were dressed in their traditional green velvet mantles embellished with gold tassels and the Thistle star. The plumed feather hats were also in attendance at the significant occasion.

The King and Queen received a Royal Salute given by the waiting Guard of Honour, formed by The King’s Body Guard for Scotland (Royal Company of Archers). At the same time, the Band played the national anthem as Their Majesties arrived at the Cathedral. Their Majesties were greeted by the Minister of St Giles’ Cathedral, the Chancellor of the Order of the Thistle and the Dean of the Order of the Thistle.

The Most Ancient and Most Noble Order of the Thistle is the greatest order of chivalry in Scotland, which recognises sixteen Knights and Ladies with the highest honour in the country. Queen Camilla was appointed in 2024 alongside the Duke of Edinburgh.

King Charles, as Sovereign of the Order, bestows the high distinction in recognition of those who have contributed significantly to national life. In addition to the 16 Knights and Ladies, the Queen, the Duke of Rothesay, the Duke of Edinburgh as well as the Princess Royal are appointed as Royal Knights of the Thistle. In 1987, Queen Elizabeth II decided that women should be eligible for the Thistle in the same way as men.