State visits are a fundamental aspect of the Monarch’s duties, playing a vital role in fostering and maintaining diplomatic relationships between nations. These visits are meticulously planned months in advance and typically span three days, encompassing a variety of ceremonial and formal events.
Invitations to visiting Foreign Monarchs, Presidents, or Prime Ministers are extended on the advice of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.
This Visit was the first incoming State Visit since the Coronation. (Royal Family).
Ceremonial welcome
State visits to the UK often commence with a grand ceremonial welcome at Horse Guards Parade in London. In recent years, The Prince and Princess of Wales have played a role in meeting the visiting dignitaries at their hotel before accompanying them to Horse Guards. There, they are greeted by The King and Queen.
The visit begins with the playing of the visiting party’s national anthem, followed by an invitation to the visiting dignitary to inspect a Guard of Honour, from one of the Household Divisions. A stately carriage procession, escorted by mounted soldiers from the Household Cavalry, then proceeds down The Mall to Buckingham Palace. Upon arrival at the Palace, an additional Guard of Honour is often assembled to welcome the visitors.
William and Kate joined Charles and Camila for the State Visit, welcoming the President of South Africa (MOD)
The day continues with a private lunch hosted by The King and Queen at the Palace.
Guests are also treated to an exclusive exhibition by the Royal Collection Trust, showcasing artefacts and artworks related to the visiting nation.
The State Carriages for the South African visit approach Buckingham Palace. (MOD)
State Banquet
On the evening of the first day, the Monarch hosts a lavish State Banquet in the Buckingham Palace Ballroom. This historic room, completed in 1855 during the reign of Queen Victoria, has been the venue for such events since 1914.
Formal, gilt-edged invitations are sent out approximately two months in advance, with a diverse guest list reflecting cultural, diplomatic, and economic ties between the UK and the visiting country.
King Charles III and Camilla, Queen Consort with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, at a State Banquet for the President during his State Visit to the UK at Buckingham Palace
The State Banquet epitomises royal splendour. Female members of the Royal Family wear dazzling tiaras and heirloom jewelry, often accompanied by Royal Family Orders. The table is set in a horseshoe arrangement, with the Monarch and the visiting dignitary seated at the top.
Decorations include silver-gilt candelabra with over 100 candles and elaborate displays of fruits and flowers in silver-gilt centrepieces.
Experience the spectacle of the Ballroom being set up for a State Banquet. Held in honour of a visiting Head of State, The Queen entertains around 170 guests on the first evening of a State Visit.
See inside #BuckinghamPalace from 21 July-30Sep. https://t.co/s06wnoitpi pic.twitter.com/dLb7Or697U
— Royal Collection Trust (@RCT) July 19, 2018
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Before the meal, The Monarch delivers a speech and proposes a toast to the visiting Head of State, who reciprocates with a toast in honour of His Majesty.
The menu, curated by the Royal Chef, traditionally includes four courses: two savory dishes, a dessert, and a selection of fresh fruit. The Clerk of the Royal Cellars and the Yeoman of the Royal Cellars ensure that the wine pairing complements the menu perfectly.
Image Licensed to i-Images Picture Agency. 22/11/2022. London, United Kingdom. President Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa with King Charles III, Camilla, Queen Consort and Kate Middleton, the Princess of Wales, at a State Banquet for the President during his State Visit to the UK at Buckingham Palace in London. Picture by i-Images / Pool
Other engagements during State Visits
For the remainder of the State Visit, the visiting party will meet the British Prime Minister, Government ministers and leaders of the main political parties.
During the remainder of the visit, the visiting dignitaries meet with the British Prime Minister, government ministers, and leaders of the main political parties. Additional engagements with members of the Royal Family often highlight the unique relationship between the two nations. For example, during the South African State Visit in 2022, Prince Edward accompanied the President on visits to the Royal Botanic Gardens and the Francis Crick Institute, showcasing scientific collaborations between the UK and South Africa.
Another highlight may include a banquet hosted by the Lord Mayor and the City of London Corporation. This event, attended by leaders of commerce and industry, is frequently graced by members of the Royal Family, further cementing the ties between the two countries.
A banquet in honour of President Yoon Suk Yeol at Guildhall, which was attended by The Duke and Duchess of Gloucester. (City of London)
State Visits underscore the importance of diplomacy and tradition in building international relationships. Through these meticulously orchestrated events, the British Royal Family continues to play a central role in representing the United Kingdom on the global stage.
