The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge changed their official plans during a visit to Wales to meet with a large crowd of supporters who gathered despite the rainy weather. William and Kate’s visit to Powys included various engagements in preparation for St David’s Day.

Their first stop was at The Hanging Gardens in Llanidloes, where they engaged with the community and enjoyed hot drinks at a local cafe. They interacted with locals creating festival signs in Welsh, sampled traditional Welsh dishes like cawl and Welsh cakes, and William even tried Welsh cider.

Despite their scheduled conclusion, the royal couple surprised onlookers by stopping their car on the way to a second visit in Newtown. They interacted with cheering crowds, played games with school children, and took selfies with teenagers before heading to Oriel Davies, a contemporary art gallery.

At the gallery, they admired the Hand in Hand art project, a collaboration between the gallery and Syrian and Afghan families in Newtown. Kate praised the initiative for fostering friendships and storytelling, and she graciously accepted a necklace made by children during an art workshop.

Later, William and Kate visited Hafan yr Afon, a community hub in Newtown, where they engaged with volunteer groups. Kate spent time with members of Mums Matter, a support service for mothers facing mental health challenges related to early motherhood.

The couple’s genuine interactions with the locals, including a heartfelt conversation with a mother who shared her story of overcoming adversity, garnered praise from the community. Despite ongoing challenges, well-wishers expressed confidence in the couple’s commitment to the monarchy.