With the Coronation on the horizon, we thought we’d take a look back at some of Charles’ key visits to our region. Read on for a trip down memory lane, and information on what’s in store for the Coronation.
During his time as the Prince of Wales, King Charles became a familiar face in Wales, taking regular tours of the country to meet with local people, businesses and organisations. With the Coronation on the horizon, we thought we’d take a look at the times Prince Charles visited towns and villages in our region – and at the end of this article you’ll find out how to find Coronation events happening around our network.
Swansea:
1969
Two days after his investiture at Caernarfon Castle, Prince Charles travelled to Swansea to announce that it would be given city status. He made the announcement to the gathered crowds from the steps of the Guildhall on 3 July, 1969.
2002
In June 2002, Prince Charles, Prince William, and Prince Harry went to St Mary’s Church for a thanksgiving service celebrating the Golden Jubilee. They arrived at Swansea Airport, where they were greeted by Bob Hastie, Lord Lieutenant of West Glamorgan and Sir Anthony Burden, the South Wales Police Chief Constable. When they arrived at the church they were welcomed by Canon Alun Evans and the Right Reverend Anthony Pierce, and after the service, they met with Swansea locals – around 3,000 people had turned up to greet them.
2012
Prince Charles paid a visit to Swansea Market during the Christmas season. He was given a hamper of local delicacies including cockles and laverbread and chatted with stallholders.
2016
Prince Charles opened the new Bay Campus of Swansea University. During this visit, he took a tour of the campus, met with staff and students and learned more about the university’s research and development work.
Neath Port Talbot:
2013
The prince visited the Coed Darcy housing development near Neath as part of his annual summer tour of Wales. The scheme, which redeveloped a former BP oil refinery site, was backed by the Prince’s Foundation for Building Community.
2019
In February 2019, Prince Charles visited Ysgol Cwm Brombil in Port Talbot, where he saw the results of the school’s Achieve programme, a personal development course run by the Prince’s Trust. The prince was in good spirits and laughed as the children drove a remote-controlled car between his legs.
Carmarthenshire:
2014
The Prince visited Llanelly House in Llanelli to see the results of the £7m restoration project which has made the house a focal point for visitors.
2018
Prince Charles opened the Wales Air Ambulance base in Llanelli, where he was given a gift by a young boy who had lost his mother in a car crash. He also met with Bonnie Tyler and Max Boyce.
2022
In July 2022 the Prince visited the National Botanic Garden of Wales, where he met with First Minister Mark Drakeford and was presented with a sapling grafted from the Pontfadog Oak, which was once said to be the oldest oak tree in Wales but was blown down in 2013.
Pembrokeshire:
2003
Thousands of visitors gathered to greet the Prince when visited Tenby. The local Salvation Army band played to welcome him, and he spent time meeting members of the public.
2022
Prince Charles stopped off in Narberth as part of his tour of Wales, visiting the Golden Sheaf Gallery, Andrew Rees butchers, Hwb and Ultracomida deli.
What’s happening in your area for the Coronation?
The Coronation will be a huge nationwide celebration, and there’s plenty in store across our region, from street parties and tea parties to volunteering activities. For the most up-to-date information, view the interactive map here.