Today The Queen visited Lancaster to mark the 750th Anniversary of the creation of the Duchy of Lancaster Inheritance; this was her first trip to the county town since 1999.
Her Majesty arrived in Lancaster on the Royal Train at around 10 this morning, then was driven to Lancaster Castle for her official welcome.
The cathedral’s bells rang out for around 30 minutes after Her Majesty arrived.
Wet weather did not deter locals, who cheered as The Queen arrived.
At Lancaster Castle, which closed as a prison in 2011, The Queen received the building’s keys from Constable Pam Barker, and was welcomed by Lord Shuttleworth, Her Majesty’s representative.
He said: ‘I am delighted to be able to welcome Her Majesty The Queen to Lancashire to mark the 750th Anniversary of the creation of the Duchy of Lancaster Inheritance.
‘Lancaster Castle is undoubtedly one of the historic treasures of our wonderful county.’
Her Majesty, The Duke of Lancaster, was then given a tour of the castle, which sits on land belonging to the Duchy of Lancaster. Henry III granted the land to his son, Edmund, in 1265 beginning what would become the Royal Duchy.
She was also treated to a performance of Shakespeare’s Richard II whilst inside.
The 89-year-old Monarch holds the title The Duke of Lancaster – yes, always a Duke, never a Duchess! This title has been held by the Sovereign since the Wars of the Roses, ending in 1485. The Royal Duchy is held in trust by Her Majesty, and provides her with a private income, similar to that of Cornwall. Here, instead of ‘God save The Queen!’, locals sing ‘God save The Duke!’
The Queen, wearing a Duchy of Lancaster brooch, met with 35th Cubs of Skerton, as well as local dignitaries. After 20 minutes or so, the Duke was driven out of the castle grounds, and to Myerscough College.
Here, The Queen saw a number of agricultural and farming related activities, including sheep shearing, concluding her visit to the county town.
Photos: Gemma Sherlock, and Brian Sheldon
