King Charles pictured sipping dram of whisky at the Mey Highland Games

King Charles III was photographed sipping a dram of whisky during his attendance at the Mey Highland Games in Caithness, Scotland, on August 1, 2026. The event, held annually at the John O’Groats showground, featured a range of traditional Scottish sports including the tug o’ war, caber tossing, and Highland dancing. The Monarch, dressed in his customary kilt, engaged with spectators and competitors throughout the day. The Mey Highland Games, originally established in 1970 in the nearby village of Mey to commemorate the late Queen Mother’s 70th birthday, has since evolved into a major regional event drawing approximately 2,000 attendees. The first games were officially opened by the Queen Mother, who praised their organisation and encouraged them to become an annual fixture. This tradition continued under King Charles, who assumed the role of Chieftain at the event in 2002 following his mother’s passing. During his visit, the King observed the tug o’ war, where a group of firefighters competed and subsequently shook hands with one another after securing victory. He also witnessed the caber toss, a challenging event requiring participants to carry and throw a large, heavy tree trunk. Traditional performances by Highland dance troupes and pipe bands added to the cultural atmosphere of the occasion. Among the groups that met the King were the Wounded Highlanders, a team composed of injured military veterans participating in adapted competitions tailored for those with physical disabilities. These events reflect the broader inclusivity and community spirit central to the Highland Games. The King’s presence at the Mey Highland Games coincided with the absence of his eldest son, Prince William, who was attending the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow alongside his wife, Catherine, the Duchess of Cambridge, and their three children. While the royal family members were spread across different locations, the event underscored the ongoing engagement of the monarchy with Scottish traditions and public life. In addition to his participation in the games, the King was noted for enjoying a dram of whisky, a gesture that aligns with his longstanding appreciation for Scotch whisky. This particular dram was part of a limited-edition release celebrating his 75th birthday. The whisky, sourced from cask number 1838, was distilled in 1978 and bottled in 2023. Each bottle was individually numbered and engraved with the royal crest and cypher, reflecting both personal significance and ceremonial importance. The whisky was presented in a specially crafted wooden case made from windblown larch harvested from the Balmoral Estate, further emphasizing its connection to the royal estate. The packaging incorporated innovative materials, such as seaweed-based paper developed by Notpla, a company recognized for sustainable innovation. Prince William, who serves as the founder and president of Notpla, played a key role in promoting environmentally conscious practices through these initiatives. As the event drew to a close, the King’s visit reinforced the enduring relevance of the Highland Games within Scottish culture and the monarchy’s continued involvement in preserving and celebrating national heritage.