The Duchess of Cambridge has embarked on a series of visits with a special family connection while Prince Harry prepares to depart the UK.
Kate, who made a surprise appearance alongside Prince Charles on the third anniversary of Queen Elizabeth II’s passing, visited the Sudbury Silk Mills in Suffolk and later stopped by Marina Mill in Cuxton, Kent.
This outing coincided with Kate’s estranged brother-in-law concluding his UK trip with a visit to the Diana Award shortly after reuniting with his father, the King, at Clarence House.
During her visit to Sudbury Silk Mills, the Duchess highlighted Britain’s textile industry, exploring the family-run weaving firm known for producing jacquard fabrics for over three centuries. She interacted with children from Saint Gregory’s Primary School in Sudbury upon her arrival, where she witnessed the mill’s production for top fashion houses and interior designers.
The Duchess toured the design studio, observing how historic patterns inspire contemporary designs, and then moved to the weaving floor to witness traditional looms and modern machinery in operation. She engaged with the staff, including Jamie Lowther-Pinkerton, expressing admiration for the craftsmanship involved.
Kate emphasized the importance of artisan skills during conversations with the team, underscoring the significance of the “Made in the UK” label as a global symbol of quality. She interacted with designers and praised their creative work as she observed sketches and patterns being transformed into finished fabrics.
Textiles hold a special place in the Duchess’s heart, as her ancestors were associated with a woollen manufacturer in Leeds. The day was dedicated to celebrating British creativity and craftsmanship, showcasing the traditional weaving techniques and modern design innovations that sustain the UK’s textile industry.
Before departing, the Duchess received flowers from school children who eagerly awaited her presence. She engaged with the children, inquiring about their school experiences and leaving them with a memorable interaction.
Following her visit to Suffolk, the Duchess headed to Marina Mill in Cuxton, Kent, a smaller family-owned business specializing in hand-designed and screen-printed fabrics, as part of her exploration of the nation’s textile sector.
Kensington Palace highlighted that Kate’s visit aims to celebrate the unique skills and creativity of British textile manufacturers and the joy found in the creative industries. Her passion for the British textiles industry, rooted in her family history, remains a driving force behind her engagements in this sector.
In the upcoming weeks, the Duchess is expected to play a significant role during US President Donald Trump’s visit to the UK, further showcasing her commitment to promoting British industry and creativity.
