A Guard of Honour on the lawn at Windsor Castle as the King's Troop Royal Horse Artillery march past and the Household Cavalry rank past.
A Guard of Honour on the lawn at Windsor Castle as the
King's Troop Royal Horse Artillery march past and the Household
Cavalry rank past.
State visits are formal visits to the UK by Heads of State from overseas, with the aim of strengthening Britain's relationships with other countries.
There are usually two incoming State visits each year.
The King acts as host to the visiting Head of State, who stays either at Buckingham Palace, Windsor Castle or, occasionally, The Palace of Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh.
Visits normally begin with a ceremonial welcome attended by The King and other senior members of the Royal Family.
If the guest is staying at Buckingham Palace, the welcome takes place on Horse Guards Parade. After inspecting a guard of honour, the visiting President or Monarch then travels with The King in a Carriage Procession back to Buckingham Palace.
If the guest is staying at Windsor Castle, the welcome takes place at a dais on Datchet Road near the railway station. The visiting President or Monarch then travels with The King in a Carriage Procession back to Windsor Castle where a Guard of Honour is inspected.
On the evening of the arrival day, the Head of State will attend a State Banquet in his or her honour.
Before leaving, he or she will occasionally host a Banquet or other return hospitality at an alternative location.
During the visit, the Head of State will meet the British Prime Minister, Government ministers and leaders of the main political parties.
The visiting Head of State will also attend a Banquet hosted by the Lord Mayor and City of London Corporation, when he or she will meet leaders of commerce and industry.
When Heads of State visit Britain less formally, they are nearly always received in audience by The King.
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Please note: This
is not an official website. Please check official sources for up
to date information about military events.
The HQ London District official webpage is at: www.householddivision.org.uk
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