Harry and Meghan delight fans at Cardiff Castle

Prince Harry and his fiancee Meghan Markle were given a rapturous welcome as they began a day trip to Cardiff.

Harry and the American actress carried out a walkabout in the grounds of Cardiff Castle in the centre of the Welsh capital - after arriving an hour late.

They shook hands with countless fans - with Harry appearing to apologise to some for keeping them waiting in chilly conditions after the couple's train journey was delayed.

Prince Harry greets well-wishers in Cardiff Andrew Matthews/PA)
Prince Harry greets well-wishers in Cardiff Andrew Matthews/PA)

Royal fans had been waiting more than seven hours to get a glimpse of the prince and Ms Markle, gathering as early as 7am.

Ms Markle was dressed in a black coat by Stella McCartney and trousers by Welsh brand Hiut Denim.

Ahead of their May wedding, the couple are touring the country to introduce Ms Markle to different towns and cities as she prepares to become a member of the royal family.

Meghan Markle meets the crowds during a visit to Cardiff Castle (Ben Birchall/PA)
Meghan Markle meets the crowds during a visit to Cardiff Castle (Ben Birchall/PA)

It is likely to be Ms Markle's first visit to Wales, which comes after she wowed the crowds in Brixton, south London, and Nottingham.

A line of dignitaries formally welcomed the prince and his bride-to-be when their chauffeur-driven car arrived in the grounds.

At the castle, which has a history dating back to Roman times, the couple will be touring a Welsh culture festival.

Meghan Markle meets the crowds in Cardiff (Ben Birchall/PA)
Meghan Markle meets the crowds in Cardiff (Ben Birchall/PA)

Harry's full title is Prince Henry of Wales - and Ms Markle could end up with a title linking her to Wales after she weds.

In the unlikely event that the Queen does not give the prince a dukedom on the morning of his marriage, Ms Markle would become Princess Henry of Wales after saying her vows.

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