King Charles and Prince William Lead Rare Order of the Bath Ceremony in London

King Charles and Prince William attend the rare Order of the Bath ceremony at Westminster Abbey for its 300th anniversary.

Prince William takes on a key ceremonial role beside King Charles in London.

 

LONDON, ENGLAND — King Charles III and Prince William made a rare joint appearance on May 16, 2025, at Westminster Abbey to attend the Service of the Order of the Bath. The event marked a symbolic and ceremonial milestone for the British royal family.

 

Held once every four years, the ceremony commemorates an order of chivalry founded in 1725 by King George I. It celebrates senior members of the military and civil service. This year’s ceremony had added significance as the Order marks its 300th anniversary.

 

Prince William, 42, was officially installed as Great Master of the Order during the event. The role, steeped in tradition, involves administering oaths and overseeing the induction of new Knights. King Charles, now 76, previously held this position before becoming sovereign.

 

The service was Charles’ first in his capacity as King and underscored his continued engagement in ceremonial duties. The last time he attended the Order’s service was in 2022, before he ascended the throne.

 

Historically, the Order of the Bath includes three classes and has evolved to include women since 1971. It has long been associated with honor, duty, and public service, reflecting the values of the monarchy.

 

Both royals have stepped further into their public roles following the passing of Queen Elizabeth II. Their joint appearance also comes after a difficult year marked by health challenges in the family, including cancer diagnoses for both King Charles and Princess Kate.

 

Despite these challenges, the service reflected continuity, stability, and the strengthening bond between father and son at the helm of the British monarchy.