• Princess Kate is wished happy birthday by King Charles 
  • Charles shared a never never-before-seen pic of Kate
  • Kate turns 42

The Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton (42), is basking in the glow of royal birthday wishes as she marks another year around the sun! King Charles (75) and Queen Camilla (76) took to the official royal Twitter page to send a special shout-out to the birthday princess, complete with a charming snapshot of Kate in a candid moment with the King.

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Captured by the renowned Chris Jackson of Getty Images, the photograph shows a behind-the-scenes look at last year's coronation festivities, with Kate dazzling in a bespoke Jess Collett x Alexander McQueen headpiece alongside her Royal Victorian Order robe. The simple yet heartfelt birthday post read: "Wishing The Princess of Wales a very happy birthday today!" Talk about a royal seal of approval!

But wait, there's more! Westminster Abbey, the very place where Kate and Prince William (41) tied the knot, chimed in—literally—with their bells ringing out in honor of the princess's special day. A video capturing the melodic celebration was shared on social media, with the Abbey's bell ringers performing a symphony of Stedman Caters and Sgurr A’Chaorachain Surprise Royal.

Kate Middleton's birthday celebration amidst bell-ringing tradition changes

Despite recent changes to the bell-ringing tradition due to financial strains from the COVID-19 pandemic, Princess Kate's birthday remains on the list of royal occasions marked by the Abbey's bells. It's clear that when it comes to celebrating Kate's birthday, the royal family pulls out all the stops!

Military groups and charities close to Kate's heart also joined in the birthday chorus. The Irish Guards, of which Kate is the Regimental Colonel, expressed their warm wishes alongside heartfelt photos. The National Portrait Gallery and the charity Place2Be, both graced by Kate's patronage, didn't miss a beat in thanking the royal for her unwavering support.

Even the Scouts got in on the action, sharing a delightful photo of the Princess with her brood during a family volunteering day. "Thanks for all you do for Scouts!" they cheered.

Behind the scenes, Kate's birthday is said to be a cozy affair, with Prince William playing the role of the perfect host and tea-maker. According to a source, their home is "not a fancy, stuffy palace in any way," but rather a place of warmth and hospitality.

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As Kate continues her journey towards becoming a future queen, her strength and determination shine through. Royal author Valentine Low describes her as "strong-minded, strong-willed and prepared to fight for what she wants and what she thinks is right."

So here's to Princess Kate, a royal force to be reckoned with, and a birthday celebration fit for royalty!