The Scottish Parliament has unveiled a new official portrait of King Charles III, now on display in the Main Hall at Holyrood. The image, commissioned to mark the Parliament’s 25th anniversary, was revealed by Princess Anne, the Princess Royal, in front of invited guests and members of Parliament.

A Balmoral Setting

The photograph was taken by Millie Pilkington in the Sunken Garden at Balmoral Castle. Rather than opting for a traditional studio portrait, the King is shown outdoors in a natural setting, underlining his long-standing ties to Scotland and its landscapes.

What the Portrait Shows

Photo: Facebook

In the image, the King wears a kilt in the King Charles III tartan and holds a handcrafted walking stick gifted to him by the Mey Highland Games. These details were chosen with care, serving as reminders of his connection to Scottish traditions and his frequent presence at cultural events in the Highlands.

Reception at the Parliament

Presiding Officer Alison Johnstone described the photograph as “striking” and said it reflects the monarch’s affection for Scotland and its people. The portrait now hangs alongside the existing image of the late Queen Elizabeth II, creating a visual link between two reigns within the same public space.

The Photographer Behind the Image

Photo: Facebook

Millie Pilkington, who has photographed members of the royal family on several occasions, described the assignment as a privilege. Her goal, she said, was to capture the King’s warmth and affinity for Scotland by framing him within the Balmoral gardens, a place closely associated with the monarchy’s life in the country.

More Than Decoration

Portraits in civic buildings are not simply decorative. They are part of how institutions present history and continuity to the public. In this case, the new photograph is designed to be a familiar yet dignified reminder of the King’s role in Scottish life. It reinforces the monarchy’s presence in the Parliament without the formality of regalia or state ceremony.

A Continuing Role for the Princess Royal

Photo: Facebook

There is also a note of continuity in who unveiled the portrait. Princess Anne performed the same duty when the Parliament first received an official portrait of her late mother, Queen Elizabeth II, more than a decade ago. Her involvement on both occasions gives a sense of consistency to how the monarchy is represented in the nation’s political home.

The Scottish Highlands once again became the stage for history and heritage as King Charles III and Queen Camilla attended the Braemar Gathering on Saturday, upholding a royal tradition that stretches back more than 175 years.

Set in the village of Braemar, just a few miles from Balmoral, the annual games drew thousands who braved shifting skies to watch one of Scotland’s most treasured celebrations of strength, music, and community spirit.

Photo: @theroyalfamily-Instagram

The King cut a classic figure in his own tartan, deep green and red checks, paired with a tweed jacket and kilt hose with a sgian dubh tucked at his side. At his shoulder, Queen Camilla brought a softer note in a pale green coat and feathered hat. The pair settled into the Royal Pavilion shortly before midday, welcomed by cheers from the crowd.

Photo:@theroyalfamily-Instagram

What followed was tradition in its purest form. Pipe bands marched, Highland dancers whirled, and the heavy events, including the hammer throw, tug of war, and the mighty caber toss, brought bursts of applause and laughter. The weather offered its own Highland drama, with light drizzle swept away by breezes, but spirits in the arena never faltered. The Queen was spotted chatting with members of the Braemar Royal Highland Society and later greeting dancers and stewards, adding warmth to the royal presence.

A moment of solemnity threaded through the day’s revelry. The gathering fell silent for one minute in memory of the late Duchess of Kent, whose passing had been announced earlier in the week. The King and Queen bowed their heads, sharing in the hush that rippled across the grounds.

Photo: @theroyalfamily-Instagram

The monarchy’s link with Braemar is long and intimate. Queen Victoria first attended in 1848, and since then, the games have been a constant on the royal calendar. The late Queen Elizabeth II rarely missed the event, often watching with a quiet pride that reflected her deep affection for Scotland. Now her son continues the tradition, not simply as a guest, but as its custodian.

As the competitions drew to a close and prizes were presented, the King and Queen made a simple departure. There was no fanfare, just a wave of acknowledgement before leaving the arena.

For all its royal connections, the Braemar Gathering remains at heart a community affair. In a calendar crowded with ceremony, this is the monarchy at its most rooted: present not for spectacle, but for continuity, heritage, and the unbroken rhythm of the Highlands.

Kate Middleton surprised onlookers during a visit to London’s Natural History Museum with Prince William on September 4, 2025. The Princess of Wales unveiled a lighter, honey-blonde hairstyle that immediately caught attention, marking a noticeable shift from her familiar brunette look.

A Fresh Take on Royal Hair

Photo: @princeandprincessofwales-Instagram

Gone are the chestnut tones Kate has long favored. Her new hair falls in soft, sun-kissed waves, parted slightly off-center, giving her a brighter, more relaxed appearance. While subtle, the change is striking enough to make fashion observers take notice.

Could This Be the Next Hair Trend?

Photo: @princeandprincessofwales-Instagram

Royal style often sets trends, and Kate’s blonde makeover is no exception. Stylists and salons are already reporting an uptick in clients asking for shades similar to hers. This honey-blonde could easily become the go-to look for anyone looking to add warmth and dimension to their hair.

Grace in Action

Photo: @princeandprincessofwales-Instagram

The visit wasn’t just about hair. Despite a sudden rain shower, Kate demonstrated her trademark composure, shielding schoolchildren with an umbrella and guiding them indoors. Her approachability and poise reinforced why her style choices resonate so strongly with the public.

The Takeaway

Whether this blonde phase is a temporary experiment or the start of a new signature look, it’s clear Kate’s hair has people talking. For those hoping to emulate her style, consulting a professional is the safest way to achieve the same sun-kissed effect without compromising hair health.