King Charles leads Garter parade on special day in Windsor

After attending Trooping the Colour on Saturday to mark the Sovereign’s official birthday, The King then led the Order of the Garter procession at Windsor Castle on Monday. 

Garter Day traditionally begins with the Sovereign officially investing new members of the Order of the Garter in the Throne Room at Windsor Castle. They then have a short lunch and then begin their procession.

The King led the ceremonial procession as Order members walked from the Castle to St. George’s Chapel, their spiritual home. All members of the Order, including The King, wore full-length velvet robes, plumed hats with ostrich feathers, and Order insignia. It is one of the most striking ceremonial outfits that the monarch will wear. 

Queen Camilla, The Prince of Wales, The Duke of Edinburgh, The Princess Royal, and The Duke of Gloucester all attended the ceremony as members of the Order. Notably The Duchess of Gloucester attended her first ceremony as a member as she was formally installed on the day of the service. 

Members of the public are allowed to gather at Windsor Castle to watch the procession on foot to the chapel, and also to watch the carriage procession after the service at the chapel is finished. The crowds were able to enjoy the processions in good weather. 

The Order of the Garter is a chivalric order that King Edward III established in 1348.