Today, The King led the Royal Family in the Garter Day procession at Windsor Castle, his first since he acceded to the throne in September 2022.
His Majesty’s first Garter Service saw the Right Honourable the Baroness Ashton of Upholland and the Right Honourable the Lord Patten of Barnes become members of the Order of the Garter, for their service to the nation.
It was Charles’ first Garter Service as Monarch. (Royal Family)
The Order of the Garter was founded by Edward III in 1348, and is dedicated to Saint George, England’s patron saint. Based on the Crusade-era orders of chivalry, members are admitted usually in recognition of a national contribution, for public service, or for personal service to the Sovereign.
King Charles III, Queen Camilla, The Prince of Wales, The Duke of Edinburgh, The Princess Royal and The Duke of Gloucester were all seen wearing their deep blue velvet capes and Tudor-style bonnet with ostrich feathers for the procession and service.
Her Majesty was installed as a Royal Lady of the Garter last year.
The Duke of Kent, 87, was driven to St George’s Chapel instead of walking in the procession from the Upper Ward due to mobility issues. His sister, Princess Alexandra, 86, did not attend due to mobility issues; it is currently unclear if she attended the lunch following the public part of the day.
The Duke was seen on the balcony of Buckingham Palace for The King’s first Trooping on Saturday, and was also driven in a car to Horseguards Parade.
The Princess of Wales, The Duchess of Edinburgh, The Duchess of Gloucester and Sir Tim Laurence also attended the Service in a supportive role to their partners.
Unsurprisingly, The Duke of York was not part of the proceedings.
Today’s ceremony would have brought back fond memories for The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh, who are celebrating their 24th wedding anniversary. The couple’s wedding took place at the order’s spiritual home, St George’s Chapel, in 1999.
The Prince and Princess of Wales with The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh, welcome The King and Queen at the Order of the Garter service at Windsor Castle
After the event had concluded, the Royal Family were seen leaving the chapel in carriages.
King Charles III and Queen Camilla were in the first carriage, with The Prince and Princess of Wales in the second carriage. This was followed by The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh, The Princess Royal and Sir Timothy, with The Duke and Duchess of Gloucester bringing up the rear.
Members of the public are able to attend, watching the procession walk to the chapel, and the carriages returning. The public are also able to get a glimpse of members of the Household Cavalry marching in formation to the Chapel, as well as the Garter Sergeants at Arms.
