Experiences unique animal interactions: Charles revels in taking part in the Highland Games
During his summer break in 2025, King Charles spent time at his private residence, the Castle of Mey in Caithness, northern Scotland. The Castle, which was bought by the Queen Mother in 1952, has been a popular summer destination for the royal family.
On July 28, King Charles attended a reception for Caithness communities, engaging with locals. However, the main event of his Scottish vacation was the annual Mey Highland Games, which he attended on August 2 and 3.
The Mey Highland Games, originally inaugurated in 1970 in honor of the late Queen Mother, are a traditional event that takes place annually. King Charles was seen enjoying the vibrant celebrations, wearing a Royal Stewart tartan kilt, a beige waistcoat, and jacket, and red socks. He was also seen smiling, laughing, and enjoying several glasses of whisky as he toured the highland games venue.
Despite using a walking stick, which is more an accessory than a mobility aid, King Charles appeared joyful and in good spirits. He engaged warmly with those around him during public events, reflecting a blend of tradition and personal style.
The Castle of Mey was closed to visitors between July 24 and August 8, indicating that King Charles had privacy during his stay at the residence.
The Mey Highland Games, held in Caithness, included tug of war, log throwing, Highland dances, and several races. Unfortunately, Queen Camilla did not accompany King Charles to the event.
Overall, King Charles’ summer at the Castle of Mey in 2025 combined official community engagements with traditional Scottish cultural participation, maintaining royal customs while enjoying private time at his ancestral home.
References:
- King Charles attends reception for Caithness communities
- King Charles' use of walking stick
- King Charles' attendance at Mey Highland Games
- Castle of Mey closed to visitors
- During his summer break at the Castle of Mey, King Charles immersed himself in an outdoor-living lifestyle, attending the annual Mey Highland Games that showcased traditional sports like tug of war, log throwing, and Highland dances.
- As he participated in sports-analysis, such as watching races, King Charles exhibited his personal style, donning a traditional Scottish kilt for the occasion and engaging warmly with the local community.
- Reflecting his interest in home-and-garden, King Charles was able to enjoy private time at the Castle of Mey, which was temporarily closed to visitors during his stay, allowing him to rest and rejuvenate in his ancestral home.
