Prince Edward's surprise US trip revealed as Edinburghs face new engagements

The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh are set for string of engagements across the UK before Prince Edward heads to the United States at the weekend.

According to the Royal Family’s official diary, the Duke will travel to America on Sunday 27 September, following several days of engagements in Merseyside and Scotland.

Before his overseas trip, Prince Edward will have a packed schedule in Liverpool on Wednesday 23 September. 

He is due to visit Mariners Park in Wallasey, Balaena Birkenhead and the Port of Liverpool Deep Sea Terminal.

The Duke will remain in Liverpool the following day, visiting maritime consultancy Brookes Bell and HMS EAGLET in his role as Commodore-in-Chief of the Royal Fleet Auxiliary. 

He will also attend a luncheon as Master of the Honourable Company of Master Mariners.

Meanwhile, the Duchess of Edinburgh has a busy run of engagements of her own in London.

Sophie will begin Wednesday with a luncheon at St James's Palace as Patron of the Hallé Concerts Society, before visiting Atlantic Studios. 

She will then attend an event marking the 80th anniversary of the Royal Mencap Society and finish the day at a reception for the Women in Business Group of The Duke of Edinburgh's Award.