Princess Anne to Explore Island’s Maritime Past and Cathedral Future

Princess Anne, The Princess Royal, is heading to the Isle of Man next month.

She’ll be gracing the island on Thursday, October 17, with stops at the House of Manannan and St. German’s Cathedral in Peel.

While the timings and finer details haven’t been announced, the royal visit was confirmed on the Royal Family’s official website.

First on the list is the ‘All at Sea’ exhibition at the House of Manannan.

This isn’t just any old display of boats and anchors – it’s a deep dive into the Isle of Man’s maritime history, marking the 200th anniversary of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI).

Expect tales of heroism, high seas, and maybe a nod to Sir William Hillary, the Manx resident who thought, ‘We need a national maritime lifesaving institution’ and then actually made it happen.

But it’s not all sea shanties and lifeboats for Her Royal Highness.

Next up, she’ll be heading over to St. German’s Cathedral for a Thanksgiving service.

Now, Princess Anne isn’t just popping in as a casual visitor.

She’s the patron of the Cathedral Church of Saint German Peel Development Appeal, which has had a nine-month, £2 million refurbishment.

That’s a lot of scaffolding.

The renovation aimed to preserve the 140-year-old cathedral and give it a 21st-century upgrade, ensuring it remains a community building for years to come.

This won’t be the Princess Royal’s first visit to the island.

She’s practically a regular, having last been here in July 2021 for Tynwald Day, as well as in October 2019 and July 2008.

She’ll no doubt remember Peel fondly, after opening the Harbour Bridge in the pouring rain back in 2019.

On the same day she has other important duties lined up.

She’ll attend a dinner celebrating the 250th anniversary of the Royal Society for the encouragement of Arts, Manufactures and Commerce (RSA).

If that wasn’t enough to fill a day, she’ll cap it all off with the Annual Evensong and Reception at the Savoy Chapel.

So, there you have it – a day in the life of a princess.

From maritime history and cathedral refurbishments to arts and evening receptions, it’s safe to say Princess Anne’s schedule is as varied as the Manx weather.

If Gef the Mongoose is planning to make an appearance, we’d better check our diary soon!