Prince Harry and Meghan Markle were in Edinburgh today, marking their first visit to Scotland since the announcement of their engagement.
The couple began their visit at Edinburgh Castle, meeting and greeting members of the public in the esplanade.
Despite the artic conditions, crowds flocked to the top of the Royal Mile to catch a glimpse of the royal couple, and they were not disappointed.
Both His Royal Highness and Ms Markle were very engaging, chatting to and interacting with the multitudes of people who turned up to see them.
Ms Markle, aptly sporting a tartan coat, was offered a Valentine’s Day card by one member of the public with cheering following Prince Harry as he made his way along the rows of excited spectators.
Second Year Religious Studies student, Kirsty Munro, who was in the crowd during the visit, spoke to The Student: “It was a great atmosphere. Everyone was really excited for Harry and Meghan’s arrival.
“They took time to speak to the crowds, particularly children, which was lovely to see.”
After having greeted the public, the couple were ushered up to the castle balcony, to observe the One O’clock Gun – an Edinburgh tradition which has been going since 1861.
Following their visit to the castle, Ms Markle and Prince Harry visited the Social Bite Café on Rose Street.
Social Bite is a social enterprise, which works to fight homelessness in Scotland. The café supplies food to Homeless people across Scotland and employs many who have been homeless themselves. Social Bite has had a particularly notable year, with their Sleep in the Park initiative in December, raising £500,000.
The couple have visited various enterprises across Britain, that are working on community centred projects. In January, they visited a local radio station in Brixton, which gives young people the opportunity to gain training and employment skills in media and radio. The royal pair have also visited Cardiff and Nottingham.
The Royal Visit ended at Holyrood House, where Prince Harry and Ms Markle will be guests at a reception for young achievers. The reception is part of Scotland’s Year of Young people.
The couple will be married in May, and are completing various public engagements in the run up to their wedding.
Image: Megan Kenyon / Photographer