The festival, known as the Houghton Festival, is a 24-hour music event featuring over 200 artists and was created by DJ Craig Richards. This marked Catherine's debut at a music festival, and she attended without her husband, Prince William. She was in the company of her Norfolk neighbors, the Marquess and Marchioness of Cholmondeley, David and Rose. The festival took place on the sprawling 1,000-acre estate of Houghton Hall.
While at the event, Catherine and Rose Hanbury were spotted together. Although Catherine was initially hesitant about the public outing, she decided to attend with heightened security, as William was not present.
These recent developments seem to have irked Meghan Markle, possibly triggered by the collaboration between Catherine and Rose Hanbury in debunking the Sussex's alleged claims about Prince William's affair. Meghan appears to be reacting to this by emphasizing her own connection with their mutual friend, Rose Hanbury. Catherine has opted for a strategic approach, asserting Prince William's continued faithfulness.
Despite previous rumors surrounding William and Rose Hanbury's relationship in 2019, which were deemed false and baseless, Catherine and Rose have managed to maintain their friendship. These rumors had reportedly originated from the Sussex camp.
In a Netflix documentary series, Harry made revelations about lies being told to protect his brother and the media's role in this. However, both sides involved have refrained from taking legal action, largely because none of the reports have presented any substantial evidence to support their claims.
These false affair rumors, while hurtful to Kate, have ironically brought her and William closer together. The couple has taken the opportunity to reevaluate their relationship, realizing that they should have been doing so more often. Catherine's recent lively night out showcases the strong friendship and connection between the future king and queen and their neighbors, the Marquess and Marchioness of Cholmondeley, who live nearby on the Norfolk estate.
In a twist of fate, the Marquess was replaced as Lord Great Chamberlain after Queen Elizabeth's passing, but King Charles ensured that he and his wife, Rose Hanbury, remained closely connected to the monarchy. In March, Charles appointed the Marquess as his Lord-in-Waiting, a prestigious role involving attendance at important state and royal events, as well as representing the King at various functions.
Rose Hanbury, a former model, married David Rock Savage in 2009. Despite initial doubts about having children, she eventually became a mother, giving birth to twins, Alexander and Oliver. Like Catherine, she has since added to her family with the birth of a third child, Iris.