Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie attend children’s hospice summer garden party

THEIR Royal Highnesses Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie attended a heartwarming garden party this afternoon at Haven House Children’s Hospice, a charity that cares for seriously ill children and their families.

The event, held in the hospice’s beautiful grounds in Woodford Green, Essex brought together children, families, staff and special guests for a celebratory tea party.

The Garden Party was intended as a thank you to all those who have supported the hospice and helped it provide much-needed care to families over the last 20 years.

Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie were warmly welcomed by hospice staff and spent the afternoon engaging with children and their families, bringing joy and smiles to all in attendance. Their Royal Highnesses also took the time to tour the hospice and speak with parents and caregivers, offering words of comfort and encouragement.

As part of the event, Their Royal Highnesses planted a commemorative tree in the hospice’s garden, symbolising hope, strength, and the enduring commitment of the hospice to supporting the families it serves. Tree planting at Haven House is a long-standing tradition and the hospice is home to an arboretum of more than 100 trees planted by notable public figures, including Margaret Thatcher and Sir Winston Churchill. The Princesses tree will stand alongside a hazel tree that was gifted to the hospice from their late grandmother Queen Elizabeth II to mark her Platinum Jubilee in 2022.

In a short address, Princess Beatrice praised the hospice for its incredible work, stating:

“This hospice is a beacon of love and support for so many families. The compassion and care provided here is truly inspiring, and it is a privilege to be part of this special day.”

Princess Eugenie added:

“Seeing the strength and resilience of the children and their families today has been deeply moving. This hospice not only provides vital care but also creates a space where joy and laughter can flourish, even in the most challenging times.”

Special guests included the creator of Downton Abbey Lord Fellowes (Julian). The award-winning actor, novelist and screenwriter, was accompanied by his wife, Lady Fellowes. Actress and hospice patron Vicki Michelle also joined guests in enjoying tea, refreshments and live music from singer Luke Burr on the lawns.

In the last year, the hospice has supported 300 children and families providing physical, emotional and practical support at the hospice, in family homes and in the local community.

Haven House Chief Executive Ralph Coulbeck expressed deep gratitude for the visit.

He said:

“We are incredibly honoured to welcome Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie to our hospice. Their commitment to supporting children’s causes is truly inspiring, and their visit today has brought so much joy. The tree they planted will be a lasting symbol of hope and resilience for everyone who comes to our gardens.

“The Garden Party was a perfect way to say thank you to our supporters, it was a wonderful event and heartening to see so many of our children and families celebrating with us.”

To learn more about Haven House Children’s Hospice, please visit: www.havenhouse.org.uk.