
Harry and Meghan got a history lesson on some of Ireland's most interesting emigrants today – including a trio of colourful, strong women.

On a tour of EPIC: The Irish Emigration Museum, based at Custom House Quay in Dublin's Docklands, they heard the stories of some of the 10 million Irish people who left Ireland over the centuries and their influence around the globe.

They included that of 6 feet 4, 17-stone Big Rachel Hamilton, who moved to Glasgow to work in the shipyards and became a forewoman navvy and later a special constable during the Partick Riots of the 1870s.

'Oh my goodness,' cried Meghan as they were shown an exhibit on her story.

After hearing the story of Jenny Hodgers, a woman from Louth who fought as a man for the Union in the American Civil War and worked and voted as a janitor called Albert Cashier in Illinois until the end of her life, Meghan said: 'Woah, that's just an incredible story.'

They were also told the story of Margaret Bulkley, who went to Edinburgh in 1809 disguised as a man called James Barry to study medicine and later served in the British Army,.

'There is a real theme here,' joked Harry, 'The Irish love dressing up.'

They had arrived at the Museum hand in hand, to cheers from the crowds.

They were greeted by EPIC's founder and chairman Neville Isdell and his wife Pamela.

Meghan was given a posy of sweet peas by seven-year-old Maria Dempsey, who wore a blue and white dress by Irish designer Paul Costelloe.

Inside, the royal visitors walked through an exhibit called Leaving the Island, as Mr Isdell pointed out images of the Irish landscape.

'This is what we are leaving behind – that's the Giant's Causeway, the green hills.'

'Wow,' responded Meghan.

'They don't show the rain,' joked their host, to laughter from the couple.

In another room they stopped to admire a sculpture called Transportation, created by Ellie McNamara, which shows the vessels on which people left the island of Ireland over 1500 years, from a representation of a 5th century currach (fishing boat) to a Boeing 747.

Meghan revealed the couple had been reading up on Irish history ahead of their visit.

The Duke and Duchess will view the historic Book of Kells and visit The Long Room of the Old Library at Trinity College, which contains the oldest harp in Ireland after their walkabout

Located in the former Custom House Quay, the interactive museum tells the story of the 10 million Irish people who have emigrated across the world. Outside, they were gifted with flowers

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex were left 'profoundly and powerfully moved' after viewing the haunting memorial to the two million men, women and children affected by the Great Famine in Dublin

Meghan cheerily greeted fans all desperately trying to capture a photograph of her during the walkabout

Following their moment of reflection at the Famine Memorial, the pair walked to the nearby EPIC Irish Emigration Museum

The couple made their way to the iconic Long Room at the college which holds the collection's 200,000 oldest books

Meghan beamed as she was given the floral arrangements by fans who had waited for hours to see her

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have left Croke Park in Dublin before meeting members of the public at Trinity college

Is football coming home? Most definitely, according to Harry! The royal even took time out of his day to support the Three Lions, remaining positive about their chances against Croatia

As Deputy Museum Director Jessica Traynor described how the Tall Ship the Jeanie Johnston carried thousands of people to a new life in North America in the 19th Century, she said: 'Oh yes, we were reading about this.'

The Duke and Duchess then moved through exhibits on the Irish Famine and periods of conflict, which were major causes of emigration in Ireland's history.

The Duchess and her designer Dublin wardrobe! Meghan dazzles in £17,000 worth of high-end labels in the space of just three hours Meghan's second and final day in Dublin got off to a busy start performing two engagements before lunch time - and her wardrobe was equally busy. The Duchess of Sussex wore two outfits in the space of an hour and a half, in the form of an estimated total of £17,04 worth of designer labels. The newly-minted royal, 36, looked typically glamorous as she kicked off the day in a dress by French designer Roland Mouret for a visit to the official residence of President Michael D Higgins. Meghan is a known friend of Mouret's was spotted wearing a £1,350 version of her dress today on the eve of her nuptials, strikingly similar to the one worn this morning estimated to cost £1, 500. When it came to her accessories the newly-wedded royal stuck simple black accents in the form of a suede shoe and an oversize black leather tote is by designer Fendi and costs an eye-watering £ 3,850.00. She did showcase a flash of bling with a pair of elegant diamond earrings costing £6,886 from Birks as she took Harry's arm before meeting the president. Advertisement

Housed below an old tobacco warehouse, the fully digital, interactive experience looks at the reasons why people left and the opportunities they took up across the globe.

It reveals the dramatic and inspiring stories of emigrants who made a mark in the worlds of music, literature, sport, politics, fashion and science.

Among the famous names with links to the UK who are honoured in the museum are milliner Philip Treacy, TV star Graham Norton and designer Orla Kiely.

Spotting Treacy, Meghan, who has worn several of his creations, said: 'He's so much fun. He's amazing and such a character.'

Americans with Irish ancestry included in the exhibits are Presidents John F Kennedy and Barack Obama and another US actress-turned-Princess – Grace Kelly.

Several key historic occasions in UK-Irish history are also marked, including the Queen's state visit to Ireland as well as President Michael D Higgins' State Visit to the UK.

In the Storytelling gallery the couple stopped to look at an interactive book on Irish Nobel Prize winners and writers.

'Wherever we go we will find incredible Irish people doing incredible things all around the world,' said the Duke.

Finally they pressed send on a virtual postcard instead of a visitors' book

Their message, which was transmitted to a big screen on the wall, read: 'Irish people have done so much to shape the world. Thank you for sharing so many moving and inspiring stories. Harry and Meghan.'

Speaking afterwards Jessica Traynor said of the royal visitors: 'They thought it was a very different type of museum to what they are used to.

'They remarked a couple of times on how there are Irish links all around the world. They seemed to really enjoy it.'

She said she had wanted to highlight the fact that Ireland 'has a lot of strong women in its history.'

She added: 'Really it's about the ways that women could create opportunities for themselves to survive.'

Founder Neville Isdell, said: 'One of the driving forces behind founding EPIC was to highlight how important emigration is to Ireland's history. I've always believed that the story of Irish people around the world was one worth telling and it's a great privilege to share that with the Duke and Duchess of Sussex. The Irish have long had a close connection with the United Kingdom, particularly in our diaspora community.'

On the final leg of their historic visit to Ireland, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex met a group of young computer coders and social entrepreneurs helping to shape the country's future.

Harry and Meghan walked hand in hand around Dublin's Trinity College, watched by thousands of adoring fans

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex viewed the Book of Kells during their visit to Trinity College in Dublin today

The couple later stopped for a private lunch before continuing on the packed final day of their pre-Brexit charm offensive in Ireland, before going to the EPIC museum

The pair appeared delighted as they were gifted bouquets of sunflowers by fans outside the college

The couple spent some 15 minutes walking around the Famine memorial statues in Dublin this afternoon

The creator behind the statues, Rowan Gillespie, explained the history of the Famine and the memorial which was presented to the city in 1997

The couple were sombre and reflective as they paid a visit to the Famine Memorial at Dublin's docklands

One exciteable woman in the crowd outside Trinity College told Meghan she had 'made her life' with the visit

The Royal couple visited Dogpatch Labs, one of Europe's leading startup hubs based in the iconic CHQ building in Dublin's Digital Docklands.

Having learned about Ireland's history and experienced its rich culture at EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum, the Royal couple's focus moved to meeting some of the innovative people who are shaping the country's future including members of CoderDojo, the global coding movement for young people.

DUBLIN'S FAMINE MEMORIAL The Famine Statues at Custom House Quay in the Dublin Docklands were presented to the city in 1997. They commemorate the Great Famine of the mid 19th Century during which approximately one million people died. A million and a half more emigrated from Ireland between 1845 and 1839 causing the island's population to fall up to 25 per cent. The cause of the Famine has been blamed on potato blight but also on the inaction of the British. Although countries across Europe were affected, the human cost in Ireland, where one third of the population was entirely dependent on the crop for food was exacerbated by a host of political, social and economic factors. Advertisement

There they spent time with schoolchildren from across Ireland who take part in workshops run by CoderDojo, a global movement of free, volunteer-led, community-based programming clubs for young people.

Anyone aged seven to seventeen can attend a Dojo for free where they can learn to how to code and create with technology.

Now, in its seventh year, there are more than 1,900 clubs in 93 countries reaching more than 50,000 young people on a regular basis.

Harry and Meghan met 11-year-old Peter Reid who told them how he is working on a project to develop a 'smart fridge' which will be able to alert you when you are running low on groceries.

He said: 'It was so cool to meet the Duke and Duchess and we all really loved it that they came all the way to Ireland. I told them abut my project and Prince Harry said he it was amazing.'

Meghan spoke to Aisling Cowap, 13, about her website she designed and coded called 'Girls do Code', for which she won the Best Female Led prize at Coolest Projects International in May.

Aisling said: 'The Duchess said it was really special that I was showing her my website. Harry said my project was cool and that it would help other girls get into coding just like me.'

During a meeting with a cross section of social leaders, the Duke and Duchess discussed the importance of empowering women from diverse backgrounds with the skills to get involved in the tech industry.

In a moment of bashful self depreication Harry said 'These children are so impressive - I can't even work an excel spreadsheet'.

Professor Brian MacCraith, the president of Dublin City University, said: 'Both the Duke and Duchess were incredibly passionate about what the future of young people and also giving opportunities to people from diverse backgrounds the tools to succeed.

'Prince Harry was very funny and I think in total awe of the children he met today. He said 'these young people are so impressive, it's inspiring what they are doing here'.

Just before leaving Dogpatch Labs, an impressive tech hub opened three years ago in a renovated a wine and tobacco warehouse, Harry and Meghan were treated to a 'tech display' by the children from CodaDojo.

One youngster gifted this sketch to Meghan and Harry - a replica of the pictures from their engagement shoot

The Duchess of Sussex giggled as her husband had his beard stroked by a youngster in Croke Park stadium

Meghan met three-year-old Walter Cullen, who playfully tugged at her hair while she was turned the other way

Nonplussed by her status, three-year-old Walter giggled after he pulled at the Duchess of Sussex's hair

Little Walter Cullen tried to hide behind his hands as he was gently told not to pull Meghan's hair

Later in the day, Harry and Meghan paid a visit to Dogpatch Labs, which is one of Europe's leading startup hubs

During the visit, the royal couple were treated to a 'tech display' by children taking part in an initiative called CodaDojo

Meghan looked animated as she and Harry spoke to children during their tour of the DogPatch Labs in Dublin today

The pair looked fascinated as the young people involved explained the work they do as part of the programme

Harry and Meghan looked relaxed as they conducted a busy day of engagements, including a tour of the DogPatch Labs

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex took part in a round table discussion during the visit to the leading start-up hub

Harry and Meghan were greeted by crowds of well-wishers as they conducted their second day of engagements today

Royal fans came prepared with their phones as they waited to catch a glimpse of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex

After spending the morning setting up a coding programme to work a set of lights spelling out 'Coda Doj' the children counted down from five and turned on the lights to raptuous applause from the royals and the volunteers at the centres.

Meghan and Harry's Irish charm offensive Meghan delighted royal fan Dorothy Jones, 73, who had travelled four hours from Donegal to see her and was rewarded with a handshake and a hello. She said: "I told her I had sent her a portrait I had painted of her in oils as a wedding present and she said, 'oh, fancy meeting you.' "She's gorgeous, she's so natural and beautiful." Rosemary Roy from Dublin had waited four hours to meet the Duchess. She said: "I asked her if she had enjoyed her stay and she said 'Yes, very much,' so I said 'Please come back'." Brothers Lucas and Joseph Ingle, aged four and six, waited behind the barrier with their mum Rukhsana, who is originally from Buckinghamshire but now lives in Dublin. Joseph said: "Harry said to me 'It's no fun being squashed down there." Rukhsana added: "We came because Leo wanted to see a real Prince and Princess. Jennifer Duffy and Amy Mulvaney, both 23 and from Dublin, waited five hours to catch a glimpse of the couple and were thrilled to shake hands with the Duchess. Amy said: "I actually went over to Windsor for their wedding. We really, really wanted to see them. It's a once in a lifetime opportunity." Asked why they were so keen to see the royal visitors, Jennifer added: "They are relatable, she was just an ordinary girl. She's a great role model. That's what we need." Harry and Meghan also stopped to hear a performance by members of the band Liber8, which is made up of young people aged between 13 and 17 from Dublin 8, known as the Liberties, which is a socially deprived area of the city. Band members are taught to play an instrument for 10 weeks on a free after-school course. The couple chatted to course director Kieran McGuinness, from the Dublin band Delorentos as the band, led by a singer called Zach Coughlan, sang on stage. Kieran said: "Harry said he knocked it out of the park and he said what we do is very inspiring. It's amazing for their self-esteem." �� �nonicz Advertisement

Constructed by the pioneering work of architect John Rennie it has since been restored many times.

Giustina Mizzoni, the executive director of Coda Dojo, said: 'Both their royal highnesses were amazingly attentive when listening to what the children are working on and both really believe in education as a way of empowering everyone.

'One of the children here today lives in rural Mayo and doesn't have internet but has taught herself to code by coming to the workshops and both the Duke and Duchess found that very impressive.

'It was a delight welcoming them here today and I am certain it will have had a profound effect on all the children.'

Before they left Prince Harry brushed off a suggestion that he should follow in the footsteps of a well wisher in Ireland — and have five children with wife Meghan Markle.

Elaine Adam-Stewart, 43, told him, 'My husband also has red hair and he gave me five children — when are you and Meghan going to get going?'

Harry saw the funny side. 'He laughed and said 'five children? — too many.'

Elaine's husband Simon Stewart, who runs an IT consultancy, was not in the crowd outside the EPIC museum of Irish Emigration but the English-born homemaker and her five kids — Nathan, 10, Adelaide, eight, Malachy, seven, Siwan, five, and Portia, 22 months, were — along with an England flag as they back the team for tonight's big World Cup match.

Further along the barrier, the couple passed tiny baby Maia Pioara, 6 months, who was being held by mom Andrea, 36. 'She was being a bit upset in the crowd and Meghan said 'Somebody wants to go home.' Harry said 'don't drop her.'

Two fans got to take some iPhone pictures up close. 'We said congratulations on their wedding and Meghan said 'thank you,' says Heather Novell, 25, who was there with pal Carol Mannion. 'I think they're a breath of fresh air. They are something new and here's a lot of hope in them. They're very relatable.'

Nicell, who is home in Dublin for the summer from Belfast where she is studying for an MA in violence, terrorism and security,' adds, 'Meghan's done a lot of work like being a goodwill ambassador and things like that. She's a great role model for girls.'

Harry and Meghan's second day in Dublin began with a visit to the official residence of President Michael D Higgins where they bonded over their shared love of rescue pets.

Looking typically elegant in black velvet court shoes, a £3,850 Fendi handbag and a taupe green dress by designer Roland Mouret, Meghan beamed as she met the President, his wife and their Bernese Mountain Dogs.

Meanwhile, cheeky four-year-old Dylan Mahon decided there was only one way to welcome British royalty to Dublin - by pulling Harry's beard.

Walter Cullen was gently reprimanded by Harry who wagged his finger in comic disapproval, as the three-year-old tugged Meghan's hair while she looked the other way.

The playful exchanges at the historic Croke Park stadium came ahead of a walkabout at Trinity College, where Meghan told one fan that Dublin was her 'favourite city.'

As they prepare to watch the World Cup semi final back at Kensington Palace tonight, the Duke asked fans whether they would be cheering for England, telling them: 'It's definitely coming home'.

In the afternoon, the couple were in a sombre and reflective mood as they paid a trip to the Famine Memorial at Dublin's docklands which commemorates the Great Famine of the mid 19th century.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex were left 'profoundly and powerfully moved' after viewing the haunting memorial to the two million men, women and children affected by the Great Famine in Dublin.

Situated on the banks of the River Liffey, the stunning composition is of a group of emaciated life-size human figures walking towards what would have been the emigration ships on Dublin's Quayside.

Harry happily let a cheeky youngster play with his beard during his walkabout of the Croke Park stadium

Prince Harry was gifted a Hurley and Sliotar by one adorable youngster at Croke Park stadium

The Duke and Duchess headed onto the pitch where they watched traditional Gaelic sports being played

Harry opted for a slightly more dressed-down look at the stadium, wearing a light grey blazer, simple white shirt and blue desert boots

Prince Harry was animated as he chatted with two young players at the stadium, who giggled away at his antics

Harry and Meghan were relaxed as they chatted with players taking part in a Gaelic games demonstration

The couple had the opportunity to talk to players, many of whom are involved with community outreach projects that encourage the use of sports for social good

The couple walked around the frighteningly realistic bronze statues with their sculptor, Rowan Gillespie, and Mike Murphy, editor of The Famine Atlas, who talked them through some of the stark realities of the tragedy for the people of his country.

Mr Murphy said afterwards that the couple clearly had some understanding of the famine and what it meant to the people of Ireland but had been genuinely shocked at what they learnt.

'In fairness they definitely had a background understanding but were shocked to hear the nitty gritty,' he said.

'Harry mentioned several times at how appalling it was that we don't seem to have learnt the lessons of the past and we are still seeing famine and food shortages around the world today. '

Sculptor Mr Gillespie added: 'This is a living monument and they were genuinely and powerfully moved by what they saw. They were very conscious that this isn't just about history, that this thing is still going on around us today and it's relevant to what we do today.

The couple both managed to make a speedy change of clothes before arriving at Croke Park museum

'Every individual is moved by what they see, which is incredibly rewarding. It is an incredibly important story between Britain and Ireland.

'They were profoundly moved to see the memorial and hear the story behind it. It is part of our joint histories.

'Meghan was very strong on the link with the city of Toronto where she lived and Harry spent a lot of time. The city only had 18,000 inhabitants but as those ships came across in their droves, Toronto took in 38,000 disease-ridden, starving famine victims.

In the stadium museum the couple saw replica jerseys used in the film Michael Collins, which depicted the shooting, as well as the whistle used by the referee that day and a match ticket.

They also saw club records featuring Collins, a key figure in the Irish independence movement, from when he was secretary of the Geraldines GAA club in London between 1909 and 1915.

It was the IRA operation led by Collins to kill 14 undercover British intelligence agents operating in Dublin - known as the Cairo Gang - that led to the security forces opening fire on the crowd at Croke Park.

Out on the pitch they watched as groups of boys and girls played hurling, camogie - the women's equivalent - Gaelic football and 'fun and run', a rounders-like game designed to be inclusive for people with disabilities.

As the couple met Joe Canning, the Galway player who is regarded as one of the modern greats of hurling and is a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador for Ireland, Harry told him: 'Apparently you're like a god.'

Harry also met a red-headed boy in wheelchair, Nathan Kiely, seven, and told him how impressed he was with his freckles. Jennifer Lawless, 22, an intern from North Carolina, said: 'He said, 'You have more freckles than I have. Lovely freckles!'

Although the couple were both given hurleys - the curved stick used to hit the ball, or sliotar, in hurling - the duke passed up on the opportunity of having a go himself.

It is, however, very difficult: even Joe Canning missed his first shot at goal when he was showing the couple how it was done by the experts. 'The first one was a disaster,' he said. 'I had to redeem myself with the second one.'

He added about the duke not having a go: 'He didn't want to do it. I was thinking he might, but he will stick to the soccer later on, I think.'

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex met a youngster taking part in a Gaelic games demonstration

Undeterred by the drizzle, the Duchess of Sussex even braved the grassy pitch in her stiletto heels

In 2011, Harry's grandparents The Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh visited the arena, as part of their historic state visit to Ireland

As the couple walked round the hallowed turf, Meghan in her high heels, one onlooker said: 'I would guess that that is the first time a pair of stilettos has been seen on the pitch.'

Chatting to youngsters from the hurling pitch, Harry picked up the hurley and said: 'That's really light, isn't it?'

Picking up a goalie's helmet, Harry asked Tom Whooley, nine, if he had ever been hit in the face by a ball. When he answered no, the duke asked him: 'Have you hit a ball into someone else's face? Not yet? Working on it!'

'Meghan was very well informed about this link and Harry knew a great deal too. They were very conscious of this.'

While the couple were viewing the memorial there a handful of cat calls from across the river.

Harry follows in the footsteps of the Queen the Duke of Edinburgh who visited Ireland's largest and most iconic sporting arena, as part of their historic state visit to Ireland in 2011

The stadium is the venue for the highest profile events on the Irish sporting calendar

One man and a woman could be heard shouting Sinn Fein slogans and another lone man shouted a crude remark at the duchess. Neither appear to have heard it, however, said Mr Gillespie.

The pair also met excitable fans - one of whom said Meghan had 'made her life'.

Dylan Mahon, who is from Grange Rath, Co Meath, is a member of St Colmcille's GAA (Gaelic Athletic Association) club who met Harry at Croke Park.

Afterwards Harry told him: 'You might have a beard soon - you never know!'

The visit to Croke Park was a chance for the couple to see children being coached in traditional Irish games.

But it was also an opportunity for the duke and duchess, who are on the second day of their tour of Ireland, to see mementos of one of the most notorious days in Anglo-Irish history.

On November 21, 1920, British forces opened fire at a Gaelic football match between Tipperary and Dublin, killing 14 spectators and players including the Tipperary captain Michael Hogan.

The day, which became known as the original Bloody Sunday, has become enshrined in Irish folklore. But while the atrocity has lost none of its capacity to appal, a historic gesture of peace and forgiveness was made in 2011 when the Queen became the first monarch to be welcomed at Croke Park since the shooting.

Now it is firmly on the itinerary for visiting members of the royal family.

At one point, Meghan urged Harry to have a go at hurling, but he politely declined to get involved

The couple chatted with the players who are involved with community outreach projects

Harry gave his wife a stern look as they held hands during their tour around the historic grounds

Croke Park is the headquarters of, the GAA. Prior to the Association buying the stadium in 1913, the grounds were privately owned

The couple were taken on a tour of the stadium's museum before going on to the pitch for a sports demonstration

The pair were pictured chatting and joking with young gaelic footballers at Croke Park

The Duke and Duchess heard about the important role that GAA plays in Irish life during their trip

The pair, accompanied by a security detail, strolled around the grounds of Croke Park

Meghan and Harry have another busy day ahead with visits to Croke Park, Trinity College and the Famine Memorial

MEGHAN'S £17,000 OUTFIT Rouland Mouret dress - £1, 500 (est) Fendi bag - £3,850 Birks earrings - £6,886 Givenchy suit - £2,500 (est) Givenchy belt - £310 Sarah Flint heels - £268 Givenchy clutch - £1,690 Advertisement

The couple also spoke to Ciarán Harkin, 16, from Galway, and Cera Kenny, 17, from Kildare, both youth leaders.

Cera said: 'She was saying how important it was to stay in your community and bring on younger children.'

However they were both most impressed at the way Harry refused to move when an official tried moving the duke on to the next group waiting to meet him. Cera said: 'When he was being rushed, he said no, two more minutes.'

Ciaran said: 'He was very genuine and real.'

The informality of the event was emphasised when the Tanaiste, or deputy prime minister, Simon Coveney stepped in to take a picture on a parent's phone of Harry and Meghan posing with a young man in a wheelchair.

Colin Regan, the GAA's community and health manager, said: 'Meghan was particularly interested in the fact that there were boys and girls playing sports together. She said she had not seen that before, really.'

She was also struck by Sarah Cregg, who plays wheelchair hurling with the Connacht provincial team. Mr Regan said: 'She said, 'Good on you, Sarah,' She asked if it was a physical game. She said it was. She liked that Sarah was mixing it with the lads. She thought that was very empowering.'

Meghan's second and final day in Dublin got off to a busy start performing two engagements before lunch time - and her wardrobe was equally busy

The Duchess of Sussex wore two outfits in the space of an hour and a half, in the form of an estimated total of £17,04 worth of designer labels

Meghan, 36, was pictured in a trouser suit for the first time since her wedding having last worn one to an awards event back in February

The couple looked delighted as they made their way out onto the pitch, despite the dismal weather

The pair were also shown exhibits from Croke Park's museum, including artefacts from the Bloody Sunday massacre

Meghan, 36, who brought one of her dogs to London when she relocated, looked delighted to meet the president's pets

As ever, Meghan looked divine in black velvet court shoes and a taupe green dress by designer Roland Mouret

The Duke and Duchess met with the President Michael Higgins at Aras an Uachtarain this morning

The Duchess of Sussex was snapped gazing adoringly at her husband Prince Harry as they attended a formal reception

The pair then made their way to Croke Park museum, home of Ireland's largest sporting organisation, the Gaelic Athletic Association

Meghan is a known friend of Mouret's with French designer Roland Mouret making appearances on her now deleted Instagram account so it came as no surprise to see her her opt for one of his pieces today

The Duchess of Sussex looked ready for business in the taupe dress and Fendi handbag - one of her most professional looks

The Duchess giggled as she stroked the large dog - and the pampered pooch looked just as pleased to meet the royal visitor

The Duchess, wearing a figure-hugging dress, greeted the president and his wife - who appeared to chuckle at a joke

CROKE PARK STADIUM Croke Park is one of Europe's largest stadiums, with a capacity of 82,300. 1864-1913: The history of the stadium dates back to 1864 when the grounds were owned privately before being bought by the Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA) in 1913 1918: The GAA was declared a dangerous organisation by the British Government and gaelic games were banned before 54,000 members defied the ban, playing games at 3pm across Ireland. This day became known as 'Gaelic Sunday' 1920: On November 21, 13 spectators and Tipperary footballer Michael Hogan, died in Croke Park when British Troops entered and opened fire during a challenge match between Tipperary and Dublin. Over 10,000 people attended the match which become known as 'Bloody Sunday' 1963: Princess Grace and Prince Rainier of Monaco attended the All-Ireland Hurling Final 1972: Muhammad Ali fought Al 'Blue' Lewis in Croke Park 1985: U2 play their first concert in Croke Park 2003: Nelson Mandela, U2, The Corrs and Muhammed Ali attend the opening ceremony of the Special Olympic Games in Croke Park 2011: The Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh visited the arena, as part of their historic state visit to Ireland 2012: Xi Jingping, the Vice-President of the People's Republic of China, paid a visit to Croke Park on the second day of his official visit to Ireland Advertisement

In the morning the duke and duchess met the president and his wife at the statesman's official residence Aras an Uachtarain, the former British Viceregal lodge in Dublin's Phoenix Park.

They rang a Peace Bell erected in the garden of the grand 18th century house in 2008 to mark the 10th anniversary of the Belfast Agreement and toured the grounds with the presidential couple and their two Bernese mountain dogs, Brod and Sioda.

It was their first engagement on the second and final day of their pre-Brexit charm offensive in Ireland, which comes less than a month after Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall visited the Emerald Isle.

Harry and Meghan were greeted on the portico of the north entrance to Aras an Uachtarain by Art O'Leary, secretary general of the Office of the President.

Mr O'Leary escorted the visitors to the State Reception Room, via the Francini Corridor, which contains busts of Ireland's past presidents, mounted on marble columns.

Meghan arrived at Aras looking typically glamorous in a Roland Mouret design.

Meghan is a known friend of Mouret's with the French designer making appearances on her now deleted Instagram account so it came as no surprise to see her her opt for one of his pieces today.

He was among the designers tipped to make the royal wedding dress, although Givenchy was its eventual creator, though Meghan was spotted wearing a £1, 350 Mouret on the eve of her nuptials, strikingly similar to the one worn today.

Within an hour and a half Meghan was back to her casual roots as she slipped into a black trouser suit for a Gaelic sports festival on her final day in Dublin at Croke Park.

Meghan, 36, was pictured in a trouser suit for the first time since her wedding having last worn one to an awards event back in February and it is believed to be the work of her wedding dress designer Givenchy at an estimated £2,500.

Peeking out from beneath her cropped blazer was a £310 black leather belt with a gold clasp, also Givenchy, cinching her high waisted trousers.

She swapped her black suede court shoes for a pair of patent ones by Sarah Flint, £268, and could be seen carrying a £1,690 clutch bag by her wedding dress designer Givenchy.

Her husband, meanwhile, opted for a slightly more dressed-down look at the stadium, wearing a light grey blazer, simple white shirt and blue desert boots.

Mr Higgins was inaugurated President on the 11th November 2011 for a seven year term. With more than a million votes he had the highest ever number of votes of any politician in the history of Irish election.

He met his wife, a former actress, at a party in Dublin and in 1974 they were married in Dublin's Haddington Road Church.

Mrs Higgins has worked as a partner with her husband in every campaign and in public life for over thirty years.

She is also still involved with the theatre and community arts, working with the world renowned Druid Theatre, An Taibhearc and other groups.

The Duchess of Sussex looked confident in her role as she smiled for the cameras at the official photo call

The Irish president and his wife looked delighted to meet the newlyweds on the second day of their visit

The Duchess of Sussex was the picture of polished perfection in the grey dress, black bag and black heels

Ireland's President Michael Higgins embraced the Duchess of Sussex while his wife, a former actress, giggled at a joke she made

Meghan put a hand on Sabina Higgins' back as they made their way back down to the steps to continue their day of engagements

The President and his wife cheerily waved from the steps of Aras an Uactharain as Meghan and Harry made their way to their car and on to their next engagement

Prince Harry and the Duchess of Sussex signed only with their first names in a visitor's book during the Presidential meeting

The meeting with Mr Higgins and his wife Sabina was the first stop in a packed itinerary for the royal couple today

When it came to her accessories the newly-wedded royal stuck simple black accents in the form of a suede shoe and an oversize leather handbag

For her engagement this morning the newly-minted Duchess opted for an old favourite when it came to her hair, sweeping her locks into a sleek bun as she is wont to do of late

During the final day of their visit, Harry and Meghan - pictured with Ireland's President, Michael Higgins - will meet the people of Dublin and visit organisations which are central to Irish life

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex greeted Sabina Higgins - an Irish actress, political activist and the wife of the President of Ireland, Michael D. Higgins

Mrs Higgins met her husband at a party in Dublin and in 1974 they were married in Dublin's Haddington Road Church. Sabina moved to Galway, where in addition to working as a partner with Michael D. in every campaign and in public life for over thirty years, she maintained her involvement with Theatre and community arts

The president and his wife were accompanied by their Bernese Mountain dogs Brod and Sioda as they said goodbye to the royals outside their residence

Meghan stroked the pets at the front door before she and Harry shook hands with their hosts and headed off for their second engagement of the day at Croke Park, headquarters of the Gaelic Athletic Association

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex promised to return to Ireland 'incognito', after the whistle stop tour through Dublin.

The Duke told members of the public during their first overseas walkabout that he would like to come back safely disguised by a hood to make the most of the Duchess' 'favourite' city.

In an appearance at Trinity College, the couple greeted around 700 members of the public, who had turned out to see them under cloudy skies.

The Duke and Duchess spent around 20 minutes shaking hands in Trinity College's Parliament Square, making a beeline for small children and students.

As they prepare to watch the World Cup semi final back at Kensington Palace tonight, the Duke asked fans whether they would be cheering for England, telling them: 'It's definitely coming home'.

Rachel Marks, 19, said the Duchess had also been excited about watching the game, confirming she would be tuning in this evening.

Best friends Sophie Maher, 11, and Emma Bowden, 10, had brought Irish flags with them, along with a handwritten postcard for Meghan telling her: 'I love your style. Enjoy your stay.'

'She said hello and asked us what our names are,' said Sophie afterwards. 'She's really nice.'

Emma added: 'She said she loved a handwritten postcard and that it was really nice to get one. She shook my hand - it smells so good!'

Harry was asked about the national team's chances in tonight's World Cup semi-final against Croatia as he met with Irish President Michael Higgins and his wife, Sabina, in Dublin on the second day of his whirlwind tour of the capital

Suckers for a shaggy dog story: How Meghan and the Irish President have BOTH given homes to rescue pets The President has had Bernese mountain dogs for over 19 years and took in Shadow, a Bernese Mountain dog, who was left homeless when his previous owners emigrated in search of work The President has had Bernese mountain dogs for over 19 years and took in Shadow, a Bernese Mountain dog, who was left homeless when his previous owners emigrated in search of work in 2012. He has since given a home to another Bernese Mountain dog named Bród, who, along with Shadow, accompanies the President every morning on his walk through the grounds of Áras an Uachtaráin. A versatile working dog from Switzerland, Bermese mountain dogs were bred to herd cattle and pull carts and can weigh up to 120 lbs and grow up to 70 cm. Affectionately known as 'the Berner', while the dogs are easy to train, they are prone to suffer with several health issues and shed a lot in Spring and Autumn. Meghan, meanwhile, had two rescue dogs - a beagle, Guy, and a Labrador-shepherd cross, Bogart - who she would keep in touch with via FaceTime during her long stints away. Meghan (pictured here with the President's dog), had two rescue dogs of her own - a beagle, Guy, and a Labrador-shepherd cross, Bogart Kensington Palace confirmed Guy has came to the UK and has legal permission to stay here, but Bogart was been left behind with friends because he was too old to fly. To be able to come to the UK, Guy had to be subjected to several vaccinations and bloodtests, as well as being microchipped. It is understood he is 'living very happily' at Kensington Palace with the couple and was even looked after by the Queen after Harry and Meghan's wedding. Speaking in the couple's first interview following their engagement, Miss Markle told told the BBC's Mishal Husain: 'I have two dogs that I've had for quite a long time, both my rescue pups. And one is now staying with very close friends and my other little guy is, yes he's in the UK, he's been here for a while. I think he's doing just fine.' Ms Markle once said the pair 'mean the absolute world' to her and she refers to them as 'my loves' and 'my boys'. Guy and Bogart regularly featured on her Instagram account, with Guy even appearing in a patriotic knitted union flag jumper. It was American comedian and chat show host Ellen DeGeneres who convinced Ms Markle to adopt Bogart, her first pet, after she bumped into her in a shelter. The former actress posted this image of her beloved rescue dogs Guy and Bogart on her Instagram page Advertisement

Two fans, Stephanie Jordan and Caroline Marsh, both 27, took the day off work to make the journey from Belfast and wore t-shirts reading 'When Harry Met Meghan'.

David Balfany, who was in Dublin with his family on holiday from America, said he had asked the Duchess whether she would be attending the reunion of their alma mater Northwestern.

'She said she probably couldn't make it,' he added.

Both the Duke and Duchess made a beeline for babies, with Conrad Galvin, seven months old, waking up just in time to shake their hands one after the other.

The Duke seemed particularly interested in two large tree stumps in the grounds of the college, asking students why they had been chopped down.

Emily Witter-Nolan, a 19-year-old midwifery student, said: 'He asked why we're here because it's the summer holidays, and said how lovely it was to be in Ireland.

'He also talked a lot about winning the match tonight.'

Chloe Mullins, 19, gave the couple a framed sketch she had done of their engagement photograph.

'Harry said 'you've given me more hair',' she disclosed. 'He saw it and was like, wow. Meghan came over and he said 'look at this, what do you think of it?' She said wow too and thanked me for it.'

Elizabeth Ring, a 19-year-old law student, said of her conversation with the couple: 'Meghan said Dublin was her favourite city. Harry said he'd come back with his jacket over his head, incognito.'

Told she was coping well with walking on cobblestones in her high heels, the Duchess replied: 'I'm trying!'

Katie Balfe, who is studying journalism, appeared emotional as she spoke to the Duchess, telling her she was a personal 'inspiration' as a high profile advocate of women's rights.

'She said she was really enjoying her visit and that what I said made it even more special,' she said.

Prince Harry got behind England's Lions today as he declared that football was 'most definitely' coming home

The two couples enjoyed an animated discussion outside Aras an Uachtarain before Meghan and Harry moved on to their next visit

The Duchess looked demure and understated in her classic black suit, wearing her chic blazer over the paired-back crew neck t-shirt

Wife Meghan, wearing chic grey Roland Mouret, said nothing about England's chances in the football - clearly happy for her husband to take the lead on talking sport

The Duchess of Sussex stepped out in a grey dress with draped detailing at her waist and carried a chic black handbag

Meghan, 36, who brought one of her dogs to London when she relocated, looked delighted to meet the president's pets

The cheerful Duchess gave photographers a small wave before heading off for her second engagement of the day

Meghan expertly negotiated the gravel despite wearing heels as she chatted to President Higgins' wife Sabina

The Duchess was given a box of chocolate mint Girl Guide cookies by a guide group visiting from Canada, telling them she too had been a Girl Scout for 'many years'.

After around 20 minutes, the Duke and Duchess waved one last time before departing by car.

Meghan also promised to return to Ireland's oldest library after she was told of plans to include the first female bust in its iconic Long Room.

Harry and Meghan, a keen feminist, were shown around the Hogwarts-style library, often described as the most beautiful room in Ireland, at Trinity College Dublin.

Showing them around, senior librarian Helen Shenton, the first female librarian to work there since it opened in 1752, remarked that though there were 37 busts of classical writers and senior figures on display, including Aristotle and Cicero, none of them was of a woman, which was something she intended to change.

'As they were leaving, she said 'I'll come back and look out for that first woman bust ' said Shenton.

For keen calligrapher Meghan, the Book of Kells, Ireland's greatest cultural treasure and the world most famous mediaeval illuminated manuscript, was 'amazing, beautiful ', she told staff.

The couple were greeted by library staff, and accompanied by Trinity College provost Dr Patrick Prendergast and his partner Sheena Brown.

The Book of Kells is Ireland's greatest cultural treasure and the worlds most famous medieval illuminated manuscript dating from the 9th century and telling the four gospels of the life of Jesus in Latin.

It has been described as a masterpiece of Western calligraphy, so particularly appealing to the Duchess, who supplemented her actors wages in the early days as a calligrapher.

They first saw a facsimile of the book, and posed for photographs against an illuminated page depicting the Four Gospels.

Then they walked into a dimly lit room to view two volumes of the original. One containing the opening words of St Matthew's Gospel 'Book of Generation' and the other St Mark.

The book comprises 650 pages on high quality calf velum. Anne -Marie Diffley, visitor services manager, explained to them that it was produced by Columban monks using goose or swan feather quills and brushes made from pine marten fur.

The couple then entered the Long Room, which houses 200,000 books, and looked up to admire the huge domed ceiling.

They both discussed the distinctive smell,' said Shenton. 'Harry said 'ah, leather', ' she said, while Meghan said 'there's a sweet note to it'.

They also saw the Brian Boru Harp, dating from the 15th centur , and long recognised as a historic symbol of Ireland,

Meghan was asked about her calligraphy and revealed she is also a book binder. 'As they were signing the visitors book, I said to the Duchess: 'I know you have done calligraphy '. And she said 'yes, and I was a book binder,' said Shenton.

The handsome couple looked smart in their business-like attire, with Meghan's smart dress complimenting her husband's crisp navy suit

The meeting with Mr Higgins and his wife Sabina was the first stop in a packed itinerary for the royal couple today

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex were pictured ringing the Peace Bell in the grounds of Aras an Uachtarain

Meghan is known for her perfect ornate handwriting after working as a calligrapher before finding fame on Suits

Meghan donned a stunning Roland Mouret in the morning before making a swift change for her next visit, wearing a sharp tailored black suit, patent court shoes and a simple white t-shirt, finishing the look with a black clutch bag

The couple met the President, his wife and their Bernese Mountain Dogs on the second day of their whirlwind tour