His Majesty The King Makes First Official Visit to Lancashire as Sovereign
The Duchy of Lancaster was deeply honoured to welcome His Majesty The King on Monday 9 June, for His first official visit to Lancashire as Sovereign and Duke of Lancaster.
The day began at Lancaster Castle, where His Majesty participated in the historic Key Ceremony. During his visit, he engaged with local schoolchildren, veterans, and members of the local business community. The King also met with the castle’s stonemasons, whose skilled craftsmanship has been instrumental in the ongoing restoration of the historic site.
Following the ceremony, His Majesty was given a private tour of the castle, where he viewed key areas undergoing restoration, including the 11th-century Keep and the 14th-century Well Tower. During his time at the castle, The King was introduced to Duchy staff and convened with members of the Duchy Council for a meeting.
Whitewell Estate Visit
His Majesty then travelled to the Duchy of Lancaster’s Whitewell Estate, where he was warmly welcomed by tenant farmers Janet and Andrew Smalley. The discussion focused on regenerative farming practices—an approach that aligns closely with His Majesty’s well-known commitment to environmental sustainability. The visit also included a meeting with the family’s alpacas, a successful example of agricultural diversification.
The visit continued with a stop in Dunsop Bridge, where His Majesty viewed an innovative redevelopment project converting derelict farm buildings into modern industrial and office spaces in line with the Duchy’s Sustainable Design Guide. This initiative forms part of the Duchy’s wider efforts to help support and revitalise the local rural economy.
The day concluded with a visit to a community woodland garden, followed by a tea reception with local tenants and Duchy staff.
Reflecting on the day, Alastair Martin, CEO of the Duchy of Lancaster, said:
“On behalf of the Duchy Council, I would like to thank everyone involved for their tremendous hard work, dedication, and positive contributions, particularly those who hosted elements of the visit. It was a very special day for our farming tenants and Duchy staff—an experience they will treasure for years to come. We are also extremely grateful to the Lancashire Lieutenancy and local Constabulary for their support and guidance throughout the day.”
