Why did Westminster Abbey ring bells for Princess Kate's birthday?

Westminster Abbey rang its bells to honor Princess Kate's 44th birthday, a rare tribute for senior royals.

Has Westminster Abbey always rung bells for royal birthdays?

Historically, Westminster Abbey rang bells for many royal birthdays, but the tradition was scaled back due to financial reasons.

When did Westminster Abbey start ringing bells for Princess Kate?

Princess Kate and Prince William were added back to the bell-ringing schedule in 2023 after the Queen's death.

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Abbey Bells Ring for Princess Kate's Birthday Honor

9 Jan

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Summary

Westminster Abbey bells chimed for Princess Kate's birthday.
This rare honor marks a revival of tradition for senior royals.
The bells last rang for royal birthdays before pandemic cutbacks.

Abbey Bells Ring for Princess Kate's Birthday Honor

Westminster Abbey recently marked Princess Kate's 44th birthday with a special ringing of its historic bells, a rare tribute in recent years. This tradition, which once celebrated numerous royals, was significantly reduced following the COVID-19 pandemic and financial constraints.

Previously, the bells chimed for twelve members of the royal family. However, by 2022, the tradition was scaled back to only honor Queen Elizabeth and King Charles. Following the Queen's passing and Charles' accession, Princess Kate and Prince William were reinstated on the schedule as the new Prince and Princess of Wales.

The Abbey's bell ringing schedule for the first half of 2026 also includes King Charles' official birthday and Prince William's 44th birthday in June. This reflects a renewed emphasis on celebrating key royal milestones through this historic auditory tradition.