Kate Middleton and Prince William went on a date night last year, leaving onlookers shocked. (Image: Aaron Chown/PA)
The Prince and Princess of Wales chose an unexpected date night venue on a rare outing together last year. Onlookers were left “all a twitter” at their low-key arrival.
Prince William and Kate Middleton surprised onlookers with their casual appearance during an unexpected date night.
The royal couple usually spend their time away from the public eye with their three children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis. But they managed to sneak out for a date night in October 2023.
The pair managed to head out on a secret visit to the saleroom of auctioneers Dreweatts, close to their Windsor residence, Adelaide Cottage. According to the Daily Mail, the couple appeared “very, very interested” in some of the items on display
These included pieces from the remarkable collection of the late decorator and antique dealer Robert Kime, who was commissioned by King Charles in 2000 to refurbish Highgrove and Clarence House. A three-day auction of his collection, featuring carpets and vases valued up to £1.5million, started on Wednesday 4 October.
An insider told the Daily Mail: “Everyone was all of a twitter to see them. It was the beginning of the very big champagne reception that auctioneers always have before a serious date.”
Both Dreweatt and Kensington Palace declined to comment on William and Kate’s visit, but some suspected that a discreet telephone bid – or two – could have been made on their behalf. If the couple did bid on any items, it is likely they would have been gifts for friends and family, rather than personal acquisitions.
The Princess has a noted affinity for the arts, having studied History of Art at university. And, according to one expert, she likes to make secret solo trips to museums and galleries using a special trick to ensure she doesn’t get noticed.
Royal author Tina Brown revealed that Kate often sets out before 8am to beat the crowds and remain unseen. In her book, The Palace Papers, Brown explains that the Princess’s private tours are an attempt to “nourish her inner life” and enable her to enjoy her hobbies without restriction.
Despite her careful planning, she was once recognised at a David Hockney showcase at the Royal Academy by an astonished admirer. The royal confided during this rare encounter: “I miss my history of art. It’s what I do to get my fix.”
Beyond her love for art appreciation, Kate is also an accomplished artist in her own right. Known for her adept photography, she has a penchant for sketching as well.
She put her artistic skills to good use for her sister Pippa’s wedding in May 2017. The royal drew St Mark’s Church, where the ceremony was held, on the front cover of the order of service.
