Princess Kate looks forward to first cancer-free summer as plans revealed

Princess Kate is expected to return to Balmoral Castle this summer, resuming a cherished family tradition after missing out last year due to her cancer treatment.

According to reports, the Prince and Princess of Wales are planning their annual trip to the Scottish Highlands with their kids, George, Charlotte, and Louis, once their royal duties wind down in the coming weeks.

The family is currently based at Windsor, with public engagements like Wimbledon and the upcoming French State Visit on their calendar. But with Prince George, 11, Princess Charlotte, 10, and Prince Louis, 7, now on summer break, a getaway is on the horizon.

Last summer, Princess Kate was notably absent from Balmoral due to her chemotherapy, a detail Prince William later confirmed when explaining why they missed the Paris Olympics.

This year, however, she’s expected to return to the Highland estate — a longtime royal summer staple.

Speaking on the Right Royal Podcast, Sky News royal correspondent Rhiannon Mills said, “It’s the place where [William] spent all these idyllic family holidays. It’s also where he was when he tragically learned of his mother’s death and where he met Kate. So, it's a place that's incredibly central to his life.”

The family is also likely to spend time at their Norfolk retreat, Anmer Hall.

But Balmoral, royal experts say, remains a “100%” favourite. And this year, Kate’s return will mark a quiet but meaningful milestone in her recovery.