Kate Middleton Says She Drinks Less Alcohol After Cancer Diagnosis

The Prince and Princess of Wales March 12 during a visit to the RNLI Tower Lifeboat Station in London. (Press Association via AP Images)

Kate Middleton has significantly reduced her alcohol consumption following her cancer diagnosis, the Princess of Wales shared in a rare personal comment during a visit to a London brewery this week.

According to PEOPLE, Middleton made the remark while visiting Southwark Brewing Company in London on March 12 as part of a series of engagements along the River Thames with Prince William.

While pouring pints during the visit, Middleton said she now approaches alcohol differently after her health scare.

“Since my diagnosis, I haven’t had much alcohol. It’s something I have to be a lot more conscious of now,” she said, as seen in a post on X from The Sun royal editor Matt Wilkinson.

She then joked with her husband about his drink of choice.

“But you like cider,” she said to Prince William, referencing his preferred beverage.

A Rare Comment About Lifestyle After Cancer

The remark came about 13 months after Kate announced she was in remission from cancer.

The princess first revealed in March 2024 that doctors had discovered cancer following abdominal surgery earlier that year. She stepped back from many public duties while undergoing treatment.

She later announced in September 2024 that she had completed chemotherapy.

In January 2025, Middleton said she was in remission after making an unannounced visit to London’s Royal Marsden Hospital, where she had received treatment during her cancer journey.

Returning to Public Life

Since announcing her remission, Kate has gradually resumed a more regular schedule of royal engagements. She has also spoken about the challenges that come after treatment ends.

“You put on a sort of brave face, stoicism through treatment. Treatment’s done, then it’s like, ‘I can crack on, get back to normal,’ but actually, the phase afterwards is really, really difficult,” she said during a visit to Colchester Hospital in July 2025, according to PEOPLE.

“You have to find your new normal, and that takes time — and it’s a roller coaster, it’s not smooth, like you expect it to be. But the reality is you go through hard times,” she added.

Alcohol and Health Awareness

Kate’s comment at Southwark Brewing Company reflects a broader trend among public figures who have reevaluated alcohol consumption following health issues.

While the Princess of Wales did not elaborate on specific changes, she indicated that drinking alcohol is now something she approaches more carefully.

The visit itself still celebrated Britain’s beer culture. The royal couple stopped at Southwark Brewing Company along the Bermondsey Beer Mile, a well-known stretch of breweries and taprooms in London.

Speaking Out on Cancer Awareness

Kate has continued to use public appearances to highlight cancer awareness.

In a video released for World Cancer Day on Feb. 4, she addressed people going through similar experiences.

“On World Cancer Day, my thoughts are with everyone who is facing a cancer diagnosis, undergoing treatment or finding their way through recovery. Cancer touches so many lives — not only patients, but the families and friends and caregivers who walk beside them,” she said in the video message, according to PEOPLE.

“As anyone who has experienced this journey will know, it’s not linear. There are moments of fear and exhaustion. But also moments of strength, kindness, and profound connection,” she added. “Today is a reminder of the importance of care, understanding and hope. Please know you are not alone.”

According to PEOPLE, the video included footage from Kate’s earlier visit to the Royal Marsden Hospital in London, where she met with patients and medical staff.