Kate Middleton is kicking off 2026 with a meaningful — and unexpected — return to royal duties.
The Princess of Wales stepped out alongside Prince William for an unannounced visit to Charing Cross Hospital in London on Thursday, January 8, marking the couple’s first official engagement of the new year. The appearance also marked Kate and William’s first public outing since attending Christmas Day church services with the royal family late last year.
According to The Sun, Prince William kept things light as he greeted staff and volunteers, joking, “Happy New Year,” before glancing at his watch and adding, “Can we still say that?”
Kate, 43, looked polished yet understated for the visit, wearing a maroon suit paired with a burgundy blouse, coordinating heels and a brown handbag. Notably, she skipped her engagement ring and wore only her wedding band — a likely nod to hospital protocol — opting for simplicity during the hands-on engagement.
The Prince and Princess of Wales, both joint patrons of NHS Charities Together, spent time speaking with healthcare workers and volunteers about the immense pressure they face during the winter virus season. They also met with volunteers supported by the charity, which works to improve patient care while easing strain on the NHS workforce.
During the visit, Kate had a particularly touching exchange with a volunteer who works with chemotherapy patients. According to Hello! magazine, when the volunteer mentioned that patients and visitors often spend “hours” at the hospital, Kate replied, “I know,” before gently touching William’s arm and adding, “We know.” The comment marked a rare personal reference to her own cancer journey.
Kate first revealed her cancer diagnosis in 2024 and completed treatment later that year, announcing in January 2025 that she was officially in remission. She also acknowledged the emotional weight of working in a hospital setting, noting that it can be “quite a daunting experience,” and emphasized the importance of support for staff and volunteers, per The Sun.
William echoed that sentiment, telling hospital workers, “You should be very proud of giving your time.”
NHS Charities Together represents more than 220 NHS charities across the U.K., distributing approximately £1.5 million every day to support staff wellbeing, improve facilities and enhance patient care. The organization also funds community prevention projects aimed at keeping people healthy long-term.
After touring the hospital, William and Kate participated in a roundtable discussion with NHS charity leaders, clinicians, patients and policymakers, focusing on how charitable giving plays a role in healing and healthcare innovation.
