Princess of Wales hugs family at end of hiking challenge in newly-released photos

The Princess of Wales is pictured being hugged by her family in newly-released photos after she completed a hiking endurance feat.

They showed Kate being embraced by her loved ones as she reunited with them at the bottom of Snowdon last weekend.

The images were taken at the end of her Three Peaks Challenge where she climbed the highest mountains in Scotland, England and Wales - Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon - within 24 hours, starting on Saturday evening.

She carried out the challenge solo, supported en route by Mountain Rescue, to raise money for a cancer charity and "explore life beyond diagnosis".

Kensington Palace said it believed the expedition was a royal first, with the 44-year-old princess being the first member of the Royal Family to complete the feat.

Photos of Kate being met by the Prince of Wales and their children Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis, have been released on social media.

They showed the future queen hugging her husband in one image, and with her arms around Charlotte in another.

She was also seen with her arm around George in another photo, holding hands with Louis, and chatting to her family.

The final picture showed Kate with her loved ones, including her parents Carole and Michael Middleton, brother James Middleton, and his dog.

The caption said: "This time last week, completing the National Three Peaks Challenge.

"A huge thank you to everybody who has supported The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity."

The post also had a link to the hospital for people to find out more or to donate.

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James MIddleton posted a photo on social media of the two of them hugging, and said he was "so incredibly proud of my darling sister".

The caption said: "Two years ago, I told you we'd climb this mountain together.

"We talked about climbing mountains while you were in hospital, and about the incredible healing power that nature can have for both the body and the mind.

"So it was such an honour to join you for your Three Peaks Challenge for the Royal Marsden Cancer Charity."

He added: "Seeing how far you've come is nothing short of inspiring. Your strength, resilience, and determination, all while being the most amazing mother, wife, daughter, and sister, inspire me and so many others every single day.

"Keep being exactly who you are."

(c) Sky News 2026: Princess of Wales hugs family at end of hiking challenge in newly-released photos