Peter Phillips and his girlfriend Harriet Sperling marked a significant relationship milestone this week as they appeared together at Royal Ascot—and for the first time, shared a carriage in the royal procession. Their public outing signaled a new chapter in their romance, which began in early 2024.

The couple joined King Charles, Queen Camilla, and Peter’s mother, Princess Anne, for the opening day of the prestigious racing event, long considered a highlight of the royal calendar.

A Public Declaration of Commitment

Peter, the eldest grandchild of Queen Elizabeth II, has previously ridden in the royal carriages with past partners Autumn Phillips and Lindsay Wallace. Inviting Harriet to join him in this highly traditional and visible role was viewed as a symbolic show of serious commitment.

Their carriage companions for the day were bestselling crime writer Anthony Horowitz and his wife, Jill Green.

Meanwhile, King Charles and Queen Camilla shared their carriage with Prince Faisal bin Salman Al Saud, a member of the Saudi royal family, and Lady Sarah Keswick, a longtime friend and lady-in-waiting to the Queen. Princess Anne rode with the Duke and Duchess of Wellington, while Annabel Elliot, Camilla’s sister, also took part in the day’s festivities.

Greeting the couple on arrival in the parade ring were Zara and Mike Tindall, along with Princess Beatrice and her husband, Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi—highlighting the tight-knit family atmosphere of the occasion.

Also in attendance were Sarah, Duchess of York, and the Duchess of Edinburgh, adding to the full royal showing on the first day of Ascot.

Harriet’s Elegant Ascot Ensemble

Making her Royal Ascot debut, Harriet Sperling, a Paediatric Nurse Specialist with the NHS, impressed with a look that balanced modern elegance with classic race-day style.

She wore a cream tweed jacket paired with a matching midi skirt by Suzannah London, finishing the look with a stylish straw boater hat by acclaimed milliner Awon Golding. Accessories included taupe heels and a coordinating clutch from Emmy London, while her Lugano jewellery added just the right amount of sparkle.

Harriet’s poised appearance and warm interaction with members of the royal family further hinted at her growing role within royal circles—as well as the strength of her bond with Peter.