Prince William and Kate Middleton are a hit with children on Northern Ireland visit – best photos


The couple spent the day in Ballymena


kate middleton receiving flowers
Ainhoa Barcelona
Ainhoa BarcelonaRoyal Managing Editor
Updated: February 28, 2019
Prince William and a woman in a blue dress engage in conversation with others in a room.© Photo: Twitter

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge started the second day of their visit to Northern Ireland at Hillsborough Castle, the Queen's official residence when she's in the area. William and Kate – or Baron and Lady Carrickfergus as they're known in Northern Ireland – were introduced to George Hamilton, Chief Constable of the Police Service of Northern Ireland, and members of his force, who told the royals about the challenging roles they undertake.

Later in the day, William and Kate visited Ballymena. They undertook a quick walkabout outside the Braid Arts Centre, chatting and meeting as many locals as possible before going into charity Cinemagic.

Their third engagement of the day brought William and Kate to St Joseph's SureStart Facility, a programme that supports parents with young children living in disadvantaged areas. The royals, who are strong believers in early intervention to prevent problems later down the line, sat in on support groups for men and for families.

Let's take a look at the Duke and Duchess' best photos from the final day of their visit…

Prince William, Duke of Cambridge, shakes hands with two men and a woman in a blue dress.© Photo: Twitter

During the previously unannounced visit, William and Kate spoke to the police force about the challenges they face. The Duchess wore a dress by one of her favourite designers, Jenny Packham.

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Kate Middleton, in a blue coat, shakes hands with children holding Union Jack flags.© Photo: PA

William and Kate were greeted by excited crowds outside the Braid Arts Centre, who had come out in droves to catch a glimpse of the royals.

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Prince William and Kate Middleton walk with an older woman, smiling, past a crowd.© Photo: PA

Kate had three outfit changes on day one of the visit, and on Thursday, the Duchess stunned again in a powder blue Mulberry coat.

Prince William and Kate Middleton engage with military personnel and a civilian in a public setting.© Photo: Getty Images

The couple were given a warm welcome on their visit to Cinemagic charity. Kate carried a navy clutch by Jimmy Choo.

Kate Middleton, wearing a blue coat, smiles and shakes hands with a crowd.© Photo: PA

A closer look at Kate's Mulberry coat.

Kate Middleton, wearing a blue coat, smiles and pets a dog held by an elderly man in a crowd.© Photo: PA

Dog lover Kate looked particularly taken by one little pooch in the crowd.

Prince William bends down to greet children in wheelchairs during an event.© Photo: PA

William bent down to chat to some youngsters.

Kate Middleton, in a blue dress, smiles and interacts with children at a face painting event.© Photo: PA

The couple visited Cinemagic to see how the charity uses film, television and digital technologies as a means to educate, motivate and inspire young people. Aspiring filmmakers are able to learn about a range of disciplines, including directing, production, costume and make-up, sound, lighting and music composition.

Prince William and Kate Middleton stand with children and staff at an event.© Photo: PA

William, who is President of BAFTA, and his wife Kate were in high spirits during the visit.

Prince William and Kate Middleton sit on a couch with two other individuals.© Photo: PA

After lunch, the Duke and Duchess headed to SureStart, a programme that helps parents with children aged under four. The royals met families who come from disadvantaged areas and learnt how the organisation supports parents and provides best practice for early years work.

Kate Middleton, wearing a blue shirt, holds yellow flowers for a child in a black shirt.© Photo: PA

Kate bonded with an adorable youngster from St Joseph's Primary School.

Kate Middleton in blue dress and high heels talks to woman and child in classroom.© Photo: PA

Activities that William and Kate sat in on included a men's support group, a family support group, action for children and hello spring fun day.

Kate Middleton and Prince William engage with children, examining a small container.© Photo: PA

The Duchess bonded with kids at the event.

Prince William, Duke of Cambridge, in a suit, interacting with children in a classroom setting.© Photo: PA

Prince William showed his paternal side as he chatted to the kids.

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