From Thursday, October 16th to Monday, October 20th, The Duchess of Gloucester visited Bermuda, marking her first trip to the island since 2015. Her visit, which coincided with the Royal Bermuda Regiment’s 60th Anniversary celebrations, was in her role as Colonel-in-Chief. Throughout her stay, The Duchess engaged in a variety of activities that highlighted Bermuda’s cultural richness, its vibrant community, and the island’s strong commitment to environmental preservation.
On Friday, October 17th, The Duchess arrived in Bermuda, where she was warmly greeted by His Excellency Mr. Andrew Murdoch, the Governor of Bermuda. Her first stop was the Bermuda Institute of Ocean Sciences (BIOS), part of Arizona State University, where she explored the institution’s groundbreaking research in marine science. Later, The Duchess visited the Dame Marjorie Bean Hope Academy, an institution dedicated to providing compassionate education for students with exceptionalities. Her visit to the Masterworks Museum of Bermuda Art, where she is a Patron, allowed her to view a remarkable collection of artworks, ranging from pieces from the 1700s to contemporary works by Bermudian artists.
The following day, Saturday, October 18th, was a momentous occasion as The Duchess, in her capacity as Colonel-in-Chief of the Royal Bermuda Regiment, took the salute during the Regiment’s 60th anniversary celebration. She presented New Colours and operational service medals, reaffirming her deep connection with the regiment and its members.
On Sunday, October 19th, The Duchess attended a special Sunday service at the Cathedral of the Most Holy Trinity. Before the service, she was warmly greeted by The Bishop of Bermuda, an Honour Guard of Boys and Girls Brigades, and presented with a bouquet of flowers. Later that day, Her Royal Highness visited HOME for Families, a charity working to end homelessness in Bermuda. This visit underscored her commitment to supporting local charitable initiatives that focus on community welfare. The Duchess also participated in a medal presentation ceremony at the Royal Bermuda Regiment’s Warwick Camp and took part in the burial of a commemorative time capsule.
On Monday, October 20th, Her Royal Highness’s final day in Bermuda began with a visit to the Bermuda Aquarium Museum and Zoo, where she learned about the institution’s environmental efforts. During this visit, The Duchess met with students involved in the Bermuda Zoological Society’s school program. Before departing, she planted a tree at Government House alongside students from the Eco Club, symbolizing her dedication to environmental conservation.
The trip concluded with a vibrant display of Bermudian culture as The Duchess enjoyed a performance by the H&H Gombey Troupe, a prominent cultural group that has been a staple of the island’s celebrations since 1989. The performance highlighted the colorful and festive spirit of Bermuda, providing a fitting end to a trip that celebrated both the island’s heritage and its future.
Throughout her visit, The Duchess of Gloucester demonstrated a deep connection with Bermuda, emphasizing both her personal commitment to the island and her ongoing support for its environmental, educational, and community-based initiatives. Her engagements left a lasting impression, reinforcing the bonds between the British royal family and Bermuda.
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