As the first anniversary of his accession to the throne nears, King Charles has been keeping up with traditions, and has spent these last few days of summer holidays at Balmoral. 

On Sunday, 3rd September, His Majesty and Queen Camilla attended Sunday service at Crathie Kirk, near the Balmoral Royal Estate, where they were joined by the Princess Royal and Sir Tim Laurence, Lady Susan Hussey (a former Lady-in-Waiting to the late Queen Elizabeth II), as well as another traditional guest: the Prime Minister. 

Rishi Sunak and his wife, Akshata Murty, were photographed being driven to the church in a separate vehicle from the King and Queen, even though, in keeping with tradition, they were staying at Balmoral Castle. 

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Sitting Prime Ministers are usually hosted in the Royal Family’s summer residence ahead of the reopening of Parliament after the summer recess, which this year falls on Monday, 4th September. 

This stay is generally understood to serve as a way for the Monarch and the head of their government to have more informal and longer chances to discuss current affairs, as well plan for the future. It is believed that the speech for the annual Opening of Parliament ceremony is also discussed on this occasion. 

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Rishi Sunak is the second Prime Minister of King Charles’ reign – the first having been Liz Truss, who was welcomed by Queen Elizabeth II just two days before her passing, and who decided to tender her resignation after only 44 days in the job. 

The church service marked the end of a busy week for the King and Queen, which was highlighted by their attendance to the Braemar Gathering, a favourite event of the King’s mother. His Majesty chose to wear a new tartan for the occasion, named Charles III in his honour.