Prince Edward, Duchess Sophie welcomed with 'dance performance' in Scotland

Prince Edward and Duchess Sophie, the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh, recently visited the Inner Hebrides to learn more about life in remote island communities and to celebrate the people, culture, and innovation found across the region.

According to palace, the visit began at Small Isles Primary School in Craighouse, where they were warmly welcomed with a dance performance and had the opportunity to view arts and crafts created by local pupils.

On the Isle of Jura, the Duke and Duchess met with local community groups and visited several small businesses, including a bakery and shop.

At the Jura Distillery, they learned about the distillery’s new biomass energy system, which reflects the island’s commitment to sustainability.

The following day, under bright sunshine at Oban Lifeboat Station, they met marina staff and local residents before travelling to Kerrera.

They explored Kerrera Community Woodlands, viewed the Queen’s Green Canopy commemorative tree, and engaged with residents at the Old School Community Hub.

Continuing their visit to Scotland, the Duke and Duchess enjoyed lunch with locals at the Tigh an Truish Inn, before taking the ferry to the Isle of Easdale.

Renowned for its stone skimming, the island welcomed them with a demonstration.

The day concluded at the Atlantic Islands Centre, where the Duke and Duchess met more members of the Easdale community and learned about island life past and present.

The Duke and Duchess visit continued on the Isle of Colonsay, where they planted a tree at Colonsay House and Gardens in a symbolic gesture to replace a tree planted by King Edward VII in 1902.

The Duke and Duchess also toured the Colonsay Smokery and ended the visit by meeting with residents at the Village Centre.