Kate Middleton, Prince William stepped out first time after Queen’s death

Kate Middleton and Prince William interact with well-wishers outside Sandringham House.

The senior royals, both 40, went on a tour of the 30,000 floral arrangements, balloon bouquets, cards, and other tributes left at Sandringham in memory of Queen Elizabeth since her passing on Thursday.

The couple's first solo outing as the new Prince and Princess of Wales made the outing particularly noteworthy.

After the Queen "peacefully" passed away at age 96 one week ago, the title was transferred from his father, now known as King Charles III, to Prince William.

About 45 minutes were spent by Prince William and Princess Kate conversing with mourners gathered in front of Sandringham House's Norwich Gates.

Bex Neeve, 44, of the county of Norfolk, waited more than two hours to speak with the pair.

"William said he thinks Monday will be hard," Neeve tells PEOPLE.

"Kate said it's been overwhelming and she and William are very grateful for everyone being here. She was emotional. They seemed like they were here to soak up all the love."

The Queen had two private residences; Sandringham being one of them. She frequently celebrated Christmas there with her family.

She often arrived at the estate in early December and stayed there until February 6, which marks the anniversary of the day her father, King George VI, passed away there, establishing her as the next monarch.