Kate Middleton and Prince William’s first meeting ended with her ‘scuttling off’ red-faced

Kate Middleton and Prince William’s first meeting was the start of their relationship journey - though it ended with her going ‘bright red’...

Kate Middleton and Prince William’s first meeting revealed, seen here at the University of St Andrews to launch a fundraising campaign
(Image credit: Photo by Rota/Anwar Hussein/Getty Images)

Kate Middleton and Prince William’s first meeting ended with her “scuttling off” and it took a “bit of time” to get to know each other. 


Few royal fans could forget the magical details of Prince William and Kate Middleton’s wedding day back in April 2011. From their kiss on the Buckingham Palace balcony to the conclusion of the speculation over who designed Kate Middleton’s wedding dress when she stepped out the car wearing her Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen gown, it marked a huge moment for them and the extended Royal Family. Last year the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge returned to St Andrews where their love story began at university and Prince William reminisced about meeting Kate there ahead of their trip. 

The couple have also previously opened up about their first meeting after their engagement was announced to the world in 2010. Opening up to ITV’s Tom Bradby at the time, it was revealed that Kate Middleton and Prince William’s first meeting ended with her “scuttling off”...

Asked about her first impression of her now-husband, Kate confessed that their first meeting at the University of St Andrews wasn’t quite the fairytale moment some might’ve imagined. Instead, she went “bright red” upon coming across the Queen’s grandchild for the first time…

“Well actually I think I actually went bright red when I met you,” she said, looking lovingly towards Prince William. “And sort of scuttled off feeling very shy about meeting you.”

It was then that Duchess Kate also shared that their first meeting didn't happened at the very beginning of term, as he missed Freshers Week with the other students. 

The future Queen Consort continued, “And, actually, William wasn’t there for quite a bit of the time initially. He wasn’t there for Freshers Week, so it did take a bit of time for us to get to know each other. But we did become, you know, very close friends from quite early on.”  

Prince William and Kate Middleton visit the University of St Andrews

(Image credit: Samir Hussein via Getty)

Despite their first meeting ending with Kate going “bright red”, their close friendship soon blossomed into their adorable romance. The couple celebrated their 11th wedding anniversary in April and since those early days, Kate has been observed showcasing her confidence and no longer seeming “shy” more generally. 

Earlier this year a body language expert claimed Kate Middleton is “more confident” than Prince William at public engagements. Whilst it’s also been suggested that Kate helped Prince William overcome “anxiety” as they prepare for their responsibility-heavy future roles.  

Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge and Prince William, Duke of Cambridge watch from the Royal Box at Wimbledon

(Image credit: Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)

Coming across as warm and approachable, the Duchess regularly inspires excitement from fans when she steps out at different events and engagements, especially when sweet moments between her and Prince William are spotted. As they look ahead to many more anniversaries to come, it’s lovely to think that an initially “shy” meeting has led to such an admired and strong relationship. 

Emma Shacklock

Emma is a Royal Editor with eight years experience working in publishing. Her specialist areas include the British Royal Family, ranging from protocol to outfits. Alongside putting her royal knowledge to good use, Emma knows all there is to know about the latest TV shows on the BBC, ITV and more. When she’s not writing about the next unmissable show to add to your to-watch list or delving into royal protocol, Emma enjoys cooking, long walks and watching yet more crime dramas!