Visiting Royal Britain – Royal Ceremonies

Ceremonies are at the heart of the British Monarchy – from small investitures at Buckingham Palace to grand parades down The Mall. While we all might not be welcomed into The Queen’s home to watch the high-ranking royals bestow honors on their subjects, as always, there are times that the grandeur is right out in the open for all to enjoy.

The State Opening of Parliament

VisitBritain Images

Having just occurred today, June 4, The State Opening of Parliament is the highlight of the royal ceremonial calendar. As Head of State, The Queen must formally open each new session of Parliament. Why is this the most important event in the ceremonial year? It brings together the House of Commons, the House of Lords and Her Majesty – the three elements of the legislature.

 Accompanied by the Duke of Edinburgh, Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall, The Queen, in full royal regalia, traveled to The Houses of Parliament in a special state coach this year; the Diamond Jubilee state coach incorporated historic monuments and moments from Britain’s history. The perfect opportunity to line the route and see Her Majesty The Queen in a proper crown and elegant state coach. Does it get more royal than that? The answer is no.

Trooping the Colour

Trooping the Colour, 1987. VisitBritain Images

From what has just happened to what happens next – Trooping the Colour is The Queen’s official birthday celebration which takes place in June; this year’s will take place on June 14. Although her actual birthday is April 21, it is tradition that the ceremonial celebration take place on a Saturday in June when the weather is likely better (ahem, I was there the whole month of March and it was glorious). Over 1400 officers and guards are on parade, together with 200 horses, over 400 musicians from 10 bands and groups of drummers marching and playing in unison with the Queen herself attending to take the salute. The parade route goes from Buckingham Palace along The Mall to Horse Guards Parade, Whitehall and back again. Not only will you see all of that, but you will catch a glimpse of the firm standing proudly on the balcony of Buckingham Palace.

Changing the Guard

Perhaps the most well-known royal ceremony among tourists, Changing the Guard takes place year-round at both Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle. While you won’t see the family themselves, this is a must-do for every first time visitor. Be sure to check the schedule before going – and get there early!

Changing the Guard, Buckingham Palace. VisitBritain Images

Changing the Guard, Windsor Castle. VisitBritain Images

News Update: Prince Philip Admitted to Hospital

The Duke of Edinburgh has been admitted to the hospital today after missing a gala reception for the Royal National Institute of Blind People at St James’s Palace on Monday evening. Prince Philip attended the coronation service at Westminster Abbey the following day and was driven to the London Clinic via car after today’s garden party.

Buckingham Palace says:

“His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh has been admitted to the London Clinic for an exploratory operation following abdominal investigations. He is expected to stay in hospital for up to two weeks.”

According to the BBC’s Peter Hunt, Prince Philip has been having “abdominal investigations”  unannounced at the London Clinic for the past week. HRH is scheduled to undergo an operation tomorrow while his wife, Queen Elizabeth II will go ahead with a planned visit to the BBC.

The 91-year-old duke, who turns 92-years-old this coming Monday, fell ill this time last year with a bladder infection. That hospital stay caused him to miss some of the Diamond Jubilee celebrations. As he is scheduled to stay in the hospital for up to two weeks, it appears he will miss the annual Trooping the Colour next Saturday, June 15 and the Order of the Garter Service on June 17. Royal Ascot, another gold star in the royal diary and taking place June 18 – 22, will also fall during his recovery period.

Sending well wishes across the pond to one of my all time favorites. Thoughts and prayers are with The Duke of Edinburgh as well as Her Majesty.

Stay tuned for updates..

Can’t Keep Up With The Queen..

I am 60 years younger than The Queen and I cannot seem to keep up with her! Her Majesty is always on the go and I can’t even seem to keep my blogging capabilities up up to date.

As you all know by now, it has been a busy few days for the royals, from pomp and pageantry to polo, the family was zooming around England like their pants were on fire, (and part of me wishes Harry’s were..okay, I’m kidding, but seriously..).

Trooping the Colour

It all started on Saturday with the Trooping the Colour to celebrate Her Majesty’s official birthday. I always love this day and I know many of you feel the same. Hats, carriage rides, balcony appearance, horse guards, a gun salute and a flypast – all in honor of The Queen – what’s not to love? Oh wait, Kate’s Erdem dress. Sorry, just had to.

AFP/Getty

This is truly the first time I’ve been disappointed in Kate’s outfit, and I’m not the only one to say so! As much as we all love you Kate, it was not a dress for a 30-year-old, gorgeous royal. The Queen, however, was shining in the yellow Angela Kelly she wore to William and Catherine’s wedding last year.

Press Association

Thankfully, we were blessed with my classic favorite shots of Queen Elizabeth II and The Duke of Edinburgh. Her facial expressions when he is in those hats is always priceless. Could they be any more adorable?

Garter Day

In one of the most important dates on the calendar, the Order of the Garter Service took place at Windsor Castle on Monday. Dressed in the traditional black robes, The Queen and The Duke of Edinburgh took part in the procession to St George’s Chapel, as well as The Prince of Wales, The Duke of Cambridge, The Duke of York and The Earl of Wessex.

Press Association

The royal ladies looked on as the men processed to the chapel; Camilla, Kate and Sophie all looked lovely in pale colors. Prayers and tweets were answered as Kate repeated the white McQueen coat from last year’s Trooping the Colour. I was excited. Twitter was excited. We all LOVE that coat, Kate! Sophie looked fabulous as always – she is certainly a favorite of mine.

Press Association

Press Association

Polo 

Oh and in between, William and Harry hit the polo field – twice. In white pants. Oh yea, and Lupo was there too. That’s pretty much all you need to know.