Does Princess Kate have to curtsy to Camilla?

Do Royals Still Curtsy to Each Other? The Case of Kate and Camilla

One of the most enduring traditions in the British royal family is the curtsy — a subtle but significant gesture steeped in protocol and respect. Since King Charles III ascended the throne, questions have surfaced about who curtsies to whom within the royal ranks. Specifically, many have wondered: does Princess Kate curtsy to Queen Camilla?

The answer lies in the rules of royal etiquette. All members of the royal family, including senior ones, are expected to bow or curtsy to the sovereign and his consort. That means yes — Princess Kate does curtsy to Queen Camilla, just as Prince William bows when in formal settings.

This tradition isn’t new. When Queen Elizabeth II was on the throne, even Princess Diana curtsied to her as monarch. The gesture isn’t about personal hierarchy but about acknowledging the office. Camilla, now Queen Consort, holds a position that commands this formal respect from other royals, regardless of personal relationships.

You can spot these moments during public appearances — Trooping the Colour, royal christenings, or official portraits — where William and Kate are seen offering subtle but unmistakable bows and curtsies. These gestures, though small, reinforce the continuity of tradition in a modernizing monarchy.

Still, behind closed doors, the atmosphere is reportedly more relaxed. While the public eye sees protocol in motion, family life at Anmer Hall or Kensington Palace is said to be far more informal. But when duty calls, the formalities return.

So, while it might seem like a quaint custom in today’s world, the curtsy remains a quiet symbol of loyalty — not just to a person, but to the crown itself.