The Duke and Duchess of Sussex began the second day of their official visit to Dublin with a visit to the official residence of the President, Aras an Uachtarain in the city's Phoenix Park. The couple were warmly welcomed by President Michael D Higgins and his wife Sabina. Meghan was quite taken with The Higgins’ Bernese Mountain dogs, Brod and Sioda. We know Meghan has already charmed the Queen's Corgis, she clearly has a way with animals and was a hit with the adorable pair this morning. More from the Mail Online: 'The President has had Bernese mountain dogs for over 19 years and took in Sioda, 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 Sioda, 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.' In case you haven't heard, England will compete against Croatia in the World Cup semi-final later this evening. The football match is on everyone's minds (at least in my house :)). The royals are also eagerly awaiting kick off tonight. Harry was asked by a reporter if football was coming home. "Most definitely," he said laughing. It's understood Harry and Meghan will be back in London in time for most of it. Indeed, Prince William just sent this message to the team “A new generation is enjoying the magic of this World Cup run. The whole country is right behind you tonight. Come on England – it's coming home!” Meghan and Sabina Higgins chatting. The couple were given a tour of the Aras. They heard about the history of the residence. Harry and Meghan signed the visitors book. The foursome posed for official photos. A beautiful photo of the Sussexes. The Mirror reports "The four VIPs stood on the steps, chatting and stroking the dogs before walking across to view an oak tree planted in 2011 by the Queen before moving onto the Peace Bell. With Harry at the end nearest the bell, all four stood in a line holding a sash and then pulling it to ring the bell once for peace. Unveiled in 2008 by then President, Mary McAleese, the Peace Bell was designed to mark the 10th anniversary of the Belfast Agreement. They also viewed a sculpture entitled “The Plough and The Stars”, which the president and his wife unveiled on Labour Day 2018, “The Plough and The Stars” by John Behan commemorates the 1913 Lockout – a founding moment for workers and trade unions in Ireland" Aras an Uachtaráin, formerly the Viceregal Lodge, is the official residence and principal workplace of the President of Ireland. It is located off Chesterfield Avenue in the Phoenix Park in Dublin. The building, which has ninety-five rooms, was designed by Nathaniel Clements and completed in 1751. The office of President of Ireland was created in 1937. In 1938, the first President, Douglas Hyde lived there temporarily while plans were made to build a new presidential palace on the grounds. The outbreak of World War II saved the building, which had been renamed Áras an Uachtaráin (meaning house or residence of the president in Irish), from ruin, as plans for its demolition and the design of a new residence were put on hold. By 1945 it had become too closely identified with the presidency of Ireland to be demolished, though its poor condition meant that extensive rebuilding of parts of the building were necessary, notably the kitchens, servants' quarters and chapel. Since then, further restoration work has been carried out from time to time. President Higgins saying his goodbyes to the Duchess. A video from the visit. The Duchess wore a bespoke taupe Roland Mouret dress with a boat neck and long sleeves for the morning. The skirt of the dress is remarkably similar to the designers Barwick dress Meghan wore the night before the wedding. Michelle notes Meghan carried the Fendi Peekaboo Essential bag. Meghan's black suede pumps are by Paul Andrew. The style is from the Pre-Spring 2019 Collection (with thanks to Meghan's Mirror). And Meghan accessorised with her Birks Snowflake Snowstorm Diamond Earrings. The $12,000 pair are described as "Inspired by the icy beauty of Canadian winters, these 2.15ct diamond earrings are crafted in 18kt white gold." The Duke and Duchess have a busy afternoon of engagements coming up.