The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are expected to return to the UK this week to undertake several engagements before they step back, but the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are also planning a trip of their own.
Kensington Palace has announced Prince William and Duchess Catherine will make their first official trip to the Republic of Ireland between March 3 and March 5 where they’re set to visit Dublin, County Meath, County Kildare and Galway at the request of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.
The couple’s visit is planned to “highlight the many strong links between the UK and Ireland” and will “focus on the relationship between the two countries, and build on the theme of remembrance of reconciliation,” the Palace said in a statement.
During the jam-packed three-day tour William and Kate will learn about local organisations working to support and empower youth along with programs which provide opportunities to help them develop important life skills.
They’ll also hear about Ireland’s conservation initiatives as well as experiencing “a taste of modern and traditional Irish culture”.
William and Kate’s visit will follow in the footsteps of the Queen’s historic visit to the country in 2011, the first time a reigning British monarch had visited in one hundred years when the entire island was still part of the United Kingdom.
While the couple has never paid an official visit to the Republic of Ireland the couple visited Northern Ireland last year.
Catherine pouring a pint during her and William’s visit to Northern Ireland last year. (Image: Getty)
Meanwhile, Prince Harry and Duchess Meghan will travel from their new base in Canada to London this week to undertake final engagements before they official step back from royal duties.
Prince Harry is planned to attend a special recording session with Jon Bon Jovi on February 28 in support of the Invictus Games, as teased in a recent Instagram post to @SussexRoyal as well as attending the Silverstone Experience opening with Formula One driver Lewis Hamilton.
Both Harry and Meghan are planned to attend the Endeavour Fund Awards on March 5, as well as the Mountbatten Music Festival on March 7 before joining the rest of the Royal Family, including William and Kate, for the Commonwealth Day service at Westminster Abbey on March 9.
Meghan’s also set to mark International Women’s Day on March 8.
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Last week it was confirmed Harry and Meghan will officially step back from royal duties from March 31.
While the couple hasn’t been shy about the fact things haven’t gone entirely as planned (they had hoped for a half-in half-out agreement) Harry has reportedly said he does not regret his decision, saying he felt there was “no other option” if he wanted to protect his family.
