Queen Camilla made a surprise appearance at the Charleston Festival in East Sussex on May 16, 2024. Dressed in a striking green outfit, she attended the event as the patron of the Charleston Trust. During the opening session, titled 'Power of Reading,' Camilla met renowned children's author Jacqueline Wilson and comedian Sir Lenny Henry.
On stage, Queen Camilla joined Children's Laureate Joseph Coelho to discuss their favorite childhood books and read an excerpt from one of them. Her engagement aimed to celebrate the importance of books and reading for children and young people.
Moreover, Camilla interacted with local primary school children, authors, and festival speakers in a reception set in the walled garden. She also toured Charleston’s historic house and studio, once the home of modernist painters Vanessa Bell and Duncan Grant.
Founded in 1980, Charleston is an independent cultural charity dedicated to preserving its artistic legacy and now operates from two locations: the house, garden, and galleries at Firle and a cultural center in Lewes.