The Duchess of Edinburgh attended the Royal Family’s Easter service at Windsor Castle without her daughter Lady Louise Windsor, who was notably absent from the traditional gathering.
Sophie arrived at St George’s Chapel on Sunday morning with her husband, Prince Edward, and son, James, Earl of Wessex, looking composed and elegant.
The couple joined other senior royals for the annual Easter Mattins service, which has long been a key date in the royal calendar.
However, their 21-year-old daughter Lady Louise, who is currently studying at the University of St Andrews, did not accompany her parents this year.
Duchess of Edinburgh steps out without Lady Louise, 21, as royal skips Easter
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The young royal, known for keeping a low profile, has made only a handful of public appearances in recent years, typically attending major royal occasions such as Queen Elizabeth II’s funeral and the King’s Coronation.
Her absence this Easter comes amid a quieter period for the Royal Family.
The King and Queen led the Royal Family at the Windsor Castle service, while Prince William and Princess Kate are spending the holiday at home in Norfolk with their children.
Despite the more subdued tone of this year’s celebrations, several working royals were in attendance at Windsor, including Princess Anne and her husband Vice Admiral Sir Tim Laurence.
The Duchess of Edinburgh walked behind her husband and son
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The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh were among the most senior figures to take part in the traditional walk into church, offering a reassuring presence for royal watchers.
They joined Princess Beatrice, Princess Eugenie, Prince Andrew, Sarah Ferguson and the King and Queen.
Lady Louise’s decision to skip the Easter service has not been explained, though her university commitments may have played a role.
The young royal is currently completing her studies in English Literature and has made clear she wishes to pursue her own career path outside of royal duties.
The Duchess of Edinburgh was typically stylish
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King Charles and Queen Camilla waving to the publicGettyStill, she remains a popular figure with many royal fans, who admire her quiet poise and strong sense of duty despite living largely outside of the spotlight.
Her close relationship with her late grandmother, Queen Elizabeth II, has also drawn praise, with some royal commentators describing her as a “future asset” to the monarchy.
While Lady Louise was not present this time, her occasional appearances continue to generate interest and spark speculation about her future role in the royal fold.
