Royal fans expressed their concerns for King Charles on Thursday after a statement from Buckingham Palace revealed His Majesty had experienced temporary side effects from his cancer treatment, requiring a short period of observation in hospital.

The announcement explained that the King was set to take a break from his duties to recover from the setback, and Friday saw the 76-year-old retreat from London to begin his recovery.

The royal was seen in public for the first time since his hospital stay. He was pictured departing his London residence of Clarence House in a black car, waving to onlookers.

It is believed His Majesty is heading to his Gloucestershire Home, Highgrove House, to rest and recover.

With royal fans understandably worried for the King’s welfare, it came as a relief to hear he looked well, with tourist Julian Mati, 34, spotting him on his departure.

“We were horrified when we heard the news yesterday,” he began, adding: “We had come down to the palace today to take pictures but we never imagined we would see the King. To see him smiling and waving, it’s such a relief.”

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King Charles’ recovery

A known workaholic, King Charles’ decision to take some time out at his country retreat is likely a relief to royal watchers, who took to social media to implore he rest rather than return to his busy schedule.

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Comments on social media read: “His majesty must take it easy and get better, we pray for him and wish him well. At this point, him getting better is the most important thing,” and: “It must be exhausting dealing with both the illness and the treatment, he should take it easy.”

Clearly concerned about her brother’s welfare, Princess Anne paid the King a visit shortly before he departed the capital. She was seen leaving Clarence House shortly before His Majesty, after a brief visit.

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Given that her Gatcombe Park home is a short drive from King Charles’ Highgrove House, it’s likely they will reconvene in the countryside over the coming days.

Queen Camilla is yet to be seen since the news of her husband’s hospital stay was made public, but we have no doubt she has been a pillar of strength during this difficult time.