Windsor Castle came alive with pomp and tradition on Tuesday as King Charles and the Royal Family rolled out a regal welcome for French President Emmanuel Macron and his wife, Brigitte. This marks the first official state visit from a European leader to Britain since Brexit—making it not only a grand display of ceremony but also a signal of strengthening ties between the UK and France.
The royal welcome, filled with pageantry, saw King Charles and Queen Camilla joined by Prince William and Princess Catherine as they greeted the French guests in true Windsor style.
Images shared by the Royal Family’s official channels—posted in both English and French—captured the moment beautifully, reading: “The King and Queen, and The Prince and Princess of Wales, have welcomed President @EmmanuelMacron and Mrs. Macron to Windsor Castle.”
There was an undeniable warmth in the air as the two couples met. Smiles were exchanged and conversations flowed easily, showcasing the close personal rapport between King Charles and President Macron.
The formalities began with the dignitaries assembling on the castle grounds, accompanied by troops in striking ceremonial dress—blue tunics and scarlet plumes—standing proudly on horseback.
The royal entourage, along with their esteemed guests, then boarded horse-drawn carriages for a classic procession through Windsor’s historic grounds, eventually arriving at the castle’s courtyard. Prince William and Princess Catherine joined the journey, adding to the royal charm of the occasion.
Keen royal watchers noted that King Charles appeared with a noticeably red right eye during the proceedings. According to a Buckingham Palace source, the King had suffered a burst blood vessel in one eye. The source was quick to clarify that the condition is minor and unrelated to any broader health concerns.