King Charles was all smiles on Sunday, 4 January 2026, as he stepped out to attend a church service with Queen Camilla at Sandringham. The monarch, 77, donned a smart brown coat (the Anderson & Sheppard number he has been wearing for the last 40 years) to brave the winter chill in Norfolk, where temperatures have dropped to -1 degree Celsius this weekend. Despite the brisk Norfolk wind, the King appeared in high spirits, pausing for an extra minute to share a laugh with Revd Canon Dr Paul Williams, a familiar face to the monarch during his winter stays at Sandringham.
Queen Camilla, 78, looked effortlessly chic for the occasion, accompanying her husband in a cream coat dress, suede knee-high boots, and a fur-trim hat. The outing marks their first of 2026 and is the first time they have been spotted in public since attending the same St Mary Magdalene church for the annual Christmas Day service and walkabout.
Charles led the walkabout, alongside Camilla, who was joined by the Prince and Princess of Wales, as well as their three children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis. The royal children were a hit with members of the public who interacted with the trio before getting selfies and offering them Christmas gifts.
Sources who witnessed the walkabout told HELLO! that Charlotte happily smiled and posed for selfies with the crowds who had gathered to celebrate Christmas Day with the royals. "She is such a little star," they said.
The Christmas celebrations are over for 2025, and King Charles looks to the year ahead. In fact, the Daily Mail reported that sources close to the King say he is "raring to go". To see all the best photos from his first outing of 2026, keep scrolling.
© Alamy Live News.The royal couple arrives
Upon arrival, King Charles led the way, greeting Revd Canon Dr Paul Williams with a warm handshake. It was a beautiful day in Norfolk, with the winter sun beaming down.
© Alamy Live News.Beaming smile from Queen Camilla
Queen Camilla showed that she's taking positive energy into the coming year as she stepped out and smiled brightly at onlookers. Her off-white coat dress was perfect for the occasion as it seemed to be made from wool, a fabric which contains crimped fibres that trap air and keep body heat in. The shining star of her look was a quilted Chanel flag bag.
© Alamy Live News.Time for your close-up
It seemed word travelled fast that the King would be attending church on Sunday. Locals gathered to get a quick glimpse of the monarch before he headed inside, with one lady taking out her phone to capture the moment on camera.
© Alamy Live News.Tickled pink
We'd love to know what was said between King Charles and the well-wishers as he seemed to be quite amused by the interaction as he looked over his shoulder and laughed.
