Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh take part in the Ceremony of the Keys

The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh appeared to be in high spirits as they took part in the Ceremony of the Keys – while visiting the Scottish capital.

Prince Edward, 60, and his wife Sophie, 59, were all smiles as they made a visit to the Palace of Holyroodhouse and took part in the tradition, which happens every time the monarch or their official representative makes an official visit to the city.

The late Queen’s son was also seen walking alongside senior British Army reservist Major-General Alastair Bruce for the occasion. 

He then received the keys to the City of Edinburgh from Lord Provost Councillor Robert Aldridge during the event.

Photos from the day showed Sophie and Edward beaming as they were greeted by the ornate ceremony.

The Duchess was effortlessly elegant in an emerald dress with textured patterns. The A-line skirt, collar detail and cinched waist made for the perfect sophisticated ensemble.

She teamed her outfit with beige stiletto heels and accesorised with a matching green clutch.

Sophie pulled her blonde tresses back into an effortless updo and kept her make-up chic and summery.

Meanwhile, Edward was dapper in a navy suit and salmon tie, sporting black leather shoes to finish the look off. 

Earlier this week, the couple become the first members of the royal family to visit a new memorial statue of Queen Elizabeth II. 

The Duke and Duchess were on a visit to Oakham, Rutland in the East Midlands. 

They went to the town’s library, which is now home to the first memorial statue of the late monarch, Edward’s mother, which features her beloved corgis at her feet. 

The pair were the first royals to see the eye-catching seven-foot bronze statue, and the Duchess couldn’t resist petting the corgis as she spoke to crowds.

Edward and Sophie took a moment to look at the statue in silence and take in the meaningful tribute to the late monarch. 

Sophie was dressed for the weather in a smart cream coat, which she paired with green straight-leg trousers and an orange bag. 

She looked as elegant as ever as she twisted her blonde tresses into a stylish updo, and added a tangerine-coloured bag to accessorise. 

Meanwhile her husband also dressed smartly for the occasion, adding a tweed blazer to his look. 

They arrived at Oakham by helicopter before making their way to Oakham Castle just after 11am, where they met children from local primary schools. 

There, they were welcomed by the leader of the town council and presented a double horseshoe – a tradition for royals visiting the area.  

Despite the inclement weather, crowds flocked to see the younger brother of King Charles and waved Union Jack flags. 

Prince Edward showed his friendly and personable nature as he spoke to locals at the Salon in Oakham, who had sat underneath an umbrella to watch him go by. 

‘Is this home is it?’ Edward joked as the delighted crowd burst into laughter.