They enjoyed the outdoor kitchen at The Savills Garden, a blend of ornamental and edible planting designed by RHS gold medal winner Mark Gregory.

By chance, their visit coincided with that of a group of Chelsea Pensioners who had been invited to enjoy a “plot-to-plate” lunch prepared with ingredients from the potager and walled garden.

“What’s on the menu?” the Princess asked, as the pensioners tucked into chargrilled peas with herbs.

Harry Puttick, who served with the Royal Welsh Fusiliers for 30 years, replied gallantly, “The peas are forgettable, you are not”.

With the cook nearby, he joked afterwards: “I’d better say the peas were wonderful, but it was fantastic to meet the future Queen.”

In the Samaritans Listening Garden, designed to be a safe space for people to share their struggles, the Princess pointed out small rocks suspended over the walkway, telling children: “That makes you feel a bit nervous and anxious, doesn’t it?”

Gesturing to the seating under the tree where they were chatting, she added: “And then you can come and sit here and it’s all really calm and feels secure.”

Designed by Darren Hawkes, the space represents an emotional journey, moving from chaos and overwhelm through to a calming and tranquil area. Sculptural oak seats serve as places to talk and listen or reflect on conversations.