Royals to mark 60th anniversary of Aberfan disaster

King Charles, Queen Camilla and Prince William are scheduled to visit Aberfan on October 21, 2026, to mark the 60th anniversary of the disaster that killed 144 people, including 116 children. Buckingham Palace announced the planned joint visit, which will include the Aberfan Memorial Garden and the Aberfan and Merthyr Vale Community Centre. The programme also includes a visit by William to Ynysowen Community Primary School, where he is scheduled to unveil the Aberfan Memorial Tree, a sculpture commemorating the anniversary. At the memorial garden, on the site of the former Pantglas school, the royals are expected to pay tribute to those who died. The announced programme includes a short prayer and a moment of silence. Charles and William are scheduled to lay wreaths, while Camilla will place a posy of flowers. At the community centre, the three royals are due to meet survivors, bereaved relatives and other residents, as well as retired emergency workers who took part in the rescue effort. The programme includes an exhibition about the response to the disaster and a reception where survivors and family members will share reflections.