Queen Camilla visits local businesses in Hillsborough
Queen Camilla had a packed agenda in Northern Ireland on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, during a surprise visit with King Charles. The Queen drew attention when she stepped behind the bar at The Parson’s Nose pub in Hillsborough and poured a pint of Guinness for visitors. The moment was part of the royal couple’s second day in Northern Ireland, where they focused on meeting residents and supporting community businesses. The 78-year-old queen appeared relaxed as she walked through the village and greeted business owners and workers during her day in the city.
King Charles meets volunteers and film fans in Newcastle
While Camilla visited Hillsborough, King Charles traveled to Newcastle in County Down. The town is close to the Mourne Mountains, and this was his first royal visit to the area. The 77-year-old king met volunteers at the Pantry Foodbank inside Donard Methodist Church and helped prepare food parcels for people with limited mobility. Later, he visited the Newcastle Community Cinema, which opened in 2008 and has become an important local window for films, performances, and events. In addition, Actor Ian McElhinney, who was raised in the area, joined the King during the visit.
The Queen pulled a perfect pint of Guinness during a visit to a village pub in Northern Ireland.
She was given a round of applause as she held up the “superb” pint at The Parson’s Nose in Hillsborough.
“It’s a bit early to drink. I’ll leave it here until later,” she laughed pic.twitter.com/PnkCh86Sj9
— Emily Ferguson (@emilyinpalace) May 20, 2026
The royal couple celebrates Northern Ireland culture
The royal outing also highlighted Northern Ireland’s music and cultural traditions. On Tuesday, May 19, 2026, Charles and Camilla attended an event in Belfast celebrating the Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann festival, which will take place in the city for the first time in August 2026. During the event, the royal duo enjoyed folk music performances and even tried playing bodhran drums. King Charles also saw local dancers, while Camilla smiled and watched the performances. Their trip has focused on culture, community life, and supporting local organizations across Northern Ireland.
