Prince Harry and Meghan Markle wow Edinburgh crowds
The couple greet well-wishers at the castle and later meet a Shetland pony that once tried to munch the Queen's posy.
Tuesday 13 February 2018 15:12, UK
Crowds in Edinburgh have braved the cold to get a glimpse of Prince Harry and his bride-to-be Meghan Markle on their official trip to the city.
They met flag-waving fans outside Edinburgh Castle before heading inside to watch as the One o'clock Gun was fired - a tradition started in 1861 to mark time for ships in the Firth of Forth.
The famous castle, an iconic fortress for centuries, was chosen as the starting point for their first joint visit to the Scottish capital.
The trip is the couple's fourth public appearance since they announced their engagement and follows visits to Nottingham, Brixton in south London and Cardiff.
Kensington Palace said: "Throughout the day Prince Harry and Ms Markle will have the opportunity to meet members of the public, learn more about organisations that work in the local community and nationwide, and celebrate youth in the Scottish Year of Young People 2018."
After the castle visit, the couple went to the New Town to visit Social Bite, a social enterprise cafe which distributes food and hot drinks to homeless people across Scotland.
It also employs staff who have experienced homelessness themselves.
In the cafe, Meghan had a latte and told staff they did "amazing work" as the couple toured the kitchen.
Meghan wore tartan for her Scottish debut, dressed in a long, navy blue and dark green wool and cashmere-blend Burberry coat.
The pair were also introduced to Cruachan IV, a Shetland pony and mascot of the Royal Regiment of Scotland, at the end of their walkabout.
The nine-year-old pony famously tried to eat the Queen's posy during her visit to Stirling Castle, and this time appeared to make an attempt at nibbling the Prince's hand.
"They were asking about him saying he's a wee star, he knows he's on parade and is showing off - they said it was lovely to meet him," Major Mark Wilkinson said.
The couple will round off their visit with a reception at the Palace of Holyroodhouse to celebrate youth achievements marking Scotland's Year of Young People 2018.