Duchess of Cambridge Returns to Natural History Museum for Wildlife Photographer Awards

The excitement is palpable as the Natural History Museum in London reopens its doors, welcoming visitors back to explore its remarkable exhibits.

Among the first to enjoy this renewed experience is none other than the Duchess of Cambridge, Kate Middleton.

She recently shared her enthusiasm in a video ahead of a highly anticipated event—the announcement of the 56th Wildlife Photographer of the Year.

In the video, filmed in the museum's stunning Hintze Hall, Kate looked elegant in a black trouser suit.

Her joy was evident as she expressed, “It is so wonderful to be back at the reopened Natural History Museum where we can all enjoy its treasures once again.” With palpable excitement, she added, “I'm here because tomorrow night I'm announcing the 56th winner of Wildlife Photographer of the Year.

I've been lucky enough to have a quick preview, and I can say it's truly spectacular.

I can't wait for you all to see it.”

This year marks the 56th edition of the Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition, which holds the title of the longest-running and most prestigious wildlife photography contest globally.

The Duchess has a special connection with this event, having previously participated in the awards ceremony in 2014 when she presented the grand title winners during the competition's 58th year.

The competition has garnered an impressive number of entries this year, with over 49,000 submissions from photographers worldwide.

A distinguished panel of international experts meticulously selected the winning images, which will be showcased at the Natural History Museum starting October 16, 2020.

Following the exhibition in London, the captivating photographs will embark on a tour across the UK and beyond.

Kate's involvement with the Natural History Museum extends back to 2013, when she became its patron.

Her fondness for the museum is not just professional; it's personal.

In a heartfelt speech in 2017, she reminisced about her childhood visits, saying, “Like many of you here tonight, I remember visiting the Natural History Museum as a child and being inspired with a love of nature.”

Now, as a mother, she relishes the opportunity to share that same joy with her children.

“I am experiencing the joy all over again with my own children, who adore coming here, and it is not just to see the T-Rex, mind you,” she remarked, highlighting the museum's diverse offerings.

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have made family outings to the museum a cherished tradition.

In 2014, they took their eldest son, Prince George, to the Sensational Butterflies exhibition just before his first birthday.

More recently, they were spotted enjoying a day out with their youngest child, Prince Louis, who was seen exploring the museum with his nanny earlier this year.