King Charles Welcomed to Scotland for Holyrood Week

King Charles was formally welcomed to Scotland on Tuesday in a ceremony steeped in centuries-old tradition. The Ceremony of the Keys took place at The Palace of Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh, where the Lord Provost presented him with the Keys to the City of Edinburgh on a red velvet cushion.

This event marks the beginning of Holyrood Week, an annual official visit by the Sovereign to Scotland every July, dedicated to celebrating Scottish culture, community, and achievements. Despite typically spanning several days, this year’s festivities are condensed into two days due to the King’s upcoming return to London for Thursday’s general election.

Accompanied by Queen Catherine, King Charles arrived via helicopter from Birkhall, their Scottish residence, where they had spent the preceding weekend. The ceremony unfolded amidst the picturesque gardens of The Palace of Holyroodhouse, where the King received a Guard of Honour from Balaklava Company, 5 Scots.

The ceremonial music was provided by The Band of the Royal Regiment of Scotland and the Pipes and Drums of the 2nd Battalion Royal Regiment of Scotland. Also participating were the Palace Guard from the Balaklava Company, 5 Scots, and The King’s Bodyguard Scotland, known as the Royal Company of Archers, established by George IV in 1822.

As King Charles arrived, a royal gun salute echoed from Edinburgh Castle. Following the salute, the King received a formal Royal Salute and inspected the troops along an “Avenue of Archers.” The Lord Provost, Councillor Robert Aldridge, then presented the symbolic Keys to the City of Edinburgh, emphasizing the city’s longstanding connection to the monarchy.

In adherence to tradition, King Charles briefly handled the keys before returning them to the Lord Provost, affirming his confidence in their custodianship. Among the attendees was D-Day veteran Cyril Bird, 100, who served with the Royal Tank Regiment in Normandy. His presence highlighted the significance of maintaining such ceremonial traditions for veterans and the broader community.

Later in the day, King Charles conducted an investiture while Queen Catherine hosted a reception honoring individuals dedicated to promoting Scottish literacy. The royal couple, accompanied by The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh, also presided over a garden party to further engage with guests.

Why This Matters: This ceremonial event underscores the enduring cultural ties between the monarchy and Scotland, reinforcing traditions that connect history with contemporary royal engagements.

Key Takeaways:

• King Charles commenced Holyrood Week with the Ceremony of the Keys in Edinburgh.
• The event included a Guard of Honour, ceremonial music, and a royal gun salute.
• The King received the symbolic Keys to the City of Edinburgh from the Lord Provost.
• D-Day veteran Cyril Bird, 100, was among the attendees, highlighting the event's significance.
• The royal couple participated in further engagements, including an investiture and a literacy reception.