Kate, the Princess of Wales, has been discharged from hospital having spent 14 days recovering from her planned surgery.

The 42-year-old was admitted to The London Clinic on Tuesday, January 16 for planned abdominal surgery and has been recovering there ever since.

A Kensington Palace spokesman said: “The Princess of Wales has returned home to Windsor to continue her recovery from surgery. She is making good progress.

“The Prince and Princess wish to say a huge thank you to the entire team at The London Clinic, especially the dedicated nursing staff, for the care they have provided. The Wales family continues to be grateful for the well wishes they have received from around the world.”

Kate’s personal assistant Natasha Archer was seen driving away from the private hospital in Marylebone on Monday morning. A second car followed in convoy, with a flower arrangement seen in the front seat of the vehicle.

Kensington Palace confirmed that she left hospital earlier today.

Kate is now heading home to Adelaide Cottage, in Windsor, where she will continue her recovery with her husband Prince William and their three children.

It is understood her resumption of official duties will depend on medical advice as she recovers. She is not expected to return to royal duties until after Easter.

William, meanwhile, will get back to work as soon as Kate has settled back at home.

Aides have not revealed what specific surgery Kate had, but did confirm it was non-cancerous.

Insiders have suggested the future queen might decide to open up on her condition in the future.

Downing Street has welcomed the news that the Princess of Wales has left hospital.

The Prime Minister’s official spokesman told reporters at a Westminster briefing: “That would be welcome news both to the Royal Family and I’m sure to the public more widely.”

It comes as King Charles was also released from hospital on Monday following planned prostate surgery.