‘Didn’t go well’: Prince William’s unusual gift to wife Kate Middleton that sparked endless laughter

Prince William recently shared a lighthearted anecdote about an unusual gift he once gave to his wife, Kate Middleton, during the early days of their relationship—a pair of binoculars.
In an interview, as reported by Page Six, the Prince of Wales recounted the moment that has since become a running joke between the royal couple. “I did get my wife a pair of binoculars once. She’s never let me forget that,” William admitted with a laugh.
Reflecting on the gesture, he added, “That was early on in the courtship—I think that sealed the deal. It didn’t go well. Honestly, I have no idea why I bought her a pair of binoculars; it seemed like a good idea at the time.”
The throwback was from the beginnings of William and Kate’s relationship, which blossomed when they were students at the University of St. Andrews in Scotland. The two met in 2001, and after years of dating, their love story culminated in a grand wedding at Westminster Abbey in April 2011, watched by millions worldwide.
While the binoculars may not have been the ideal romantic gesture, the memory has since transformed into a fond, if humorous, chapter in their lives
According to Page Six, the family has a longstanding tradition of exchanging gag gifts, adding a layer of playfulness to their otherwise formal public image.
Prince Harry, in his 2023 memoir, “Spare,” revealed that he once received a fish-shaped ballpoint pen from Princess Margaret. In another instance, he reportedly gifted the late Queen Elizabeth II a cheeky shower cap emblazoned with the phrase “Ain’t life a b—h.” Kate herself joined the tradition, reportedly presenting Harry with a playful “grow-your-own-girlfriend” kit during one festive season.
This year, William and Kate, along with their three children—Prince George, 11, Princess Charlotte, 9, and Prince Louis, 6—continued the royal custom of spending Christmas at the Sandringham Estate in Norfolk. Hosting 45 guests, Prince William anticipated a “noisy” celebration, highlighting the warmth and familial chaos that defines their gatherings.
However, one absence was notably felt. Reports indicate that Prince Harry, Meghan Markle, and their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, did not join the festivities at Sandringham. According to Page Six, the Sussexes were not extended an invitation, reflecting ongoing tensions within the royal family.