Prince William and Kate Middleton returned to Westminster Abbey for the first time since their spectacular wedding to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the Queen's Coronation on Tuesday. The happy couple's visit was made all the more special given that they are expecting their first child next month. The ever-fashionable Duchess of Cambridge, who had dressed her blossoming baby bump in a nude ensemble, was positively radiant as she waved to well-wishers who had gathered to catch a glimpse of the royal procession.
The expectant royal wore a floral hat with bead detailing, silk tulle and organza discs by milliner Jane Taylor. She had 'recycled' the £790 eyecatching headpiece which she debuted at the Diamond Jubilee Service last year. The 31-year-old had dressed for the glorious weather in a bespoke delicate daisy lace dress with silver ribbon detailing by one of her favourite designers, Jenny Packham. She also wore a soft peach silk shantung jacket by the British couturier. Kate's glossy brunette tresses were pulled back in a trademark demi-chignon and she accessorised with dazzling diamond jewellery, a neat clutch bag and her go-to LK Bennett neutral heeled pumps. It was the first time that William and Kate have made a public visit to the Abbey since their magnificent nuptials that took place there more than two years ago. The beaming parents-to-be were part of the 2,000-strong congregation gathered at the 'Service of Celebration' in London. They joined other members of the royal family including Prince Charles and his wife Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, and the Duke of Edinburgh, who attended despite withdrawing from an engagement with Her Majesty last night after becoming unwell. Other royals present included Prince Harry, Prince Andrew and his daughters Princess Eugenie and Princess Beatrice, Zara Phillips and her husband Mike Tindall.
More than 2,000 guests attended the service, which was conducted by Dr Hall and featured music and hymns from the coronation six decades previously. On display on the high altar throughout the service sat the priceless, solid gold St Edward's Crown — the first time it has left the Tower of London since the coronation. Beside it was plead the Ampulia, the gold, eagle-shaped bottle from which the holy oil was poured for the Queen's anointing.
After the service, the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh, their children and their spouses enjoyed a private lunch with around 100 guests in College Hall, a late 14th century dining hall, hosted by the Dean and Chapter of Westminster.