The Prince of Wales arranged a surprise walkabout with his wife, Kate, and the Sussexes after the late Queen’s death, a new book has claimed.
The two couples greeted the mourning crowds outside Windsor Castle together despite it being “awkward,” according to William.
The walk took place at a time of estrangement between the two brothers, but before the release of Harry's all-telling memoir and documentary series.
A new biography by Robert Hardman on King Charles III details the walk stating that “it was very much William’s idea.”
The royals view floral tributes left in front of Windsor Castle.
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Hardman quoted one of William’s advisors who said: “He had organised it in about two hours flat.
“He had been giving it a lot of thought and he said: ‘I know it’s awkward but isn’t it right in the context of my grandmother’s death?’
“I know he asked a couple of other people, too.”
The book describes it as a “remarkable scene” when a black Land Rover dropped the two couples off on Windsor’s Long Walk.
Meghan and Harry greet mourners.
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The walkabout lasted about 40 minutes during which the royals waved to the crowd and chatted to people lining the streets.
Once it was over, a member of the Waleses team allegedly said: “I don’t think either couple found it easy.”
The biography by Hardman has revealed new information on the Royal Family including details about the King almost missing the late Queen’s final moments.
The King, formerly known as the Prince of Wales, was absent from Balmoral leading up to the time of the Queen’s death and was persuaded by royal advisors to make it to the Queen’s bedside before she died on September 8 2022.
Crowds gather at the gates of Windsor Castle after the Queen's death.
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The 40 minute walkabout was Prince William's idea.
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The book has also revealed that the King chose to dine without Prince Harry on the night of the Queen’s death because he needed to prepare to console Britain.
It was reported by Palace officials that the King dined instead with his eldest son Prince William to have “vital but discreet discussions.”
Hardman said that the King needed “a clear head and no distractions” before consoling the country following the death of the Queen.
A member of the King’s staff said: “You have to remember, losing a second parent is a big thing, becoming the senior generation is a big thing and there he was, expected to console the whole country.”
