King Charles visits Barrow to mark Royal port status

King Charles travelled to the South Cumbrian town to mark the port being officially granted Royal status—an honour announced in March this year in recognition of the town’s unique and critical contribution to the UK’s nuclear submarine building programme and national security.

The King was greeted by cheering crowds and joined civic leaders, Sea Cadets, schoolchildren, and members of the community at the Town Hall for the occasion.

King Charles meeting residents from Park View Garden’s Care Home(Image: Westmorland and Furness Council)

Alexander Scott, His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Cumbria, said: “Today marks a truly historic moment for Barrow.

“It has been a great honour to welcome His Majesty and to celebrate the granting of Royal Port status.

“As we reflect on this special occasion, we also look to the future.

HM The King waving to the crowd and marking the Town being granted Royal Status for its Port(Image: Westmorland and Furness Council)

“This recognition not only celebrates Barrow’s proud heritage, but also reinforces its role at the forefront of innovation, industry, and community spirit.

“This honour is a tribute to the dedication of Barrow’s shipbuilders, port teams, and the wider community.

“I want to thank the people of Barrow for the warmth of their welcome and the pride they have shown.

King Charles waving to the crowd(Image: Westmorland and Furness Council)

“It has been inspiring to see the whole town come together to share in this milestone.”

The day featured a performance by the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic, as well as street entertainment including stilt walkers, a drumming band, and traditional games.

Families filled the courtyard and surrounding streets to take part in the festivities.

King Charles meeting members of the public waving flags(Image: Westmorland and Furness Council)

Councillor Fred Chatfield, Mayor of Barrow, said: “This has been a fantastic day for Barrow.

“The King’s visit will be remembered for generations to come.

“The Royal status for our port reflects the hard work, commitment and talent of our community, and today’s celebrations have shown just how much this means to the people of our town.”

Councillor Doug Rathbone, chairman of Westmorland and Furness Council, said: “It has been a privilege to welcome His Majesty and to share in this historic occasion with so many members of the public.

“Today has given us the chance not only to celebrate the Royal status of our port, but also to reflect on Barrow’s proud heritage and to look ahead to a very exciting future.”