Windsor Castle was thrust into the global spotlight last night as former President Donald Trump was honored with a lavish state banquet, marking a rare second invitation for an American president and underscoring the enduring “special relationship” between the US and UK.
A Night of Royal Grandeur
St. George’s Hall, the castle’s iconic banquet venue, was transformed into a scene of regal splendor. The
banquet table stretched an astonishing 155 feet—longer than two Marine One helicopters—with 139 candles flickering above 1,452 pieces of cutlery, all meticulously arranged by more than 100 staff members. The menu was equally exquisite, featuring watercress panna cotta and chicken ballotine, a nod to both British tradition and modern culinary flair.
Among the high-profile guests were King Charles III, Queen Camilla, Prince William, Princess Catherine, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and media mogul Rupert Murdoch—whose presence drew attention given Trump’s ongoing legal battles with him. Trump’s daughter Tiffany and her husband were also in attendance, adding a family touch to the diplomatic affair.
Powerful Speeches and Political Undertones
The evening wasn’t just about pageantry. Both Trump and King Charles III delivered speeches that highlighted the deep historical and strategic ties between the two nations. Trump called the dinner “one of the highest honors of my life,” emphasizing the need for the US and UK to defend “the values of the English-speaking world.” King Charles, meanwhile, referenced the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, stating,
“Today, as tyranny once again threatens Europe, we and our allies stand together in support of Ukraine, to deter aggression and secure peace.”This event comes at a time when global alliances are being tested, and the symbolism of unity at Windsor Castle was not lost on observers.
Royal Fashion and Glittering Jewels
The banquet was also a showcase of royal fashion. Princess Catherine stunned in a glittering tiara, while Queen Camilla and Melania Trump donned elegant gowns, drawing praise from fashion commentators and royal watchers alike. The royal jewelry on display paid tribute to the late Queen Elizabeth II, whose legacy was honored throughout the evening.
Windsor Castle: Still a Living Landmark
Windsor Castle, nearly 1,000 years old and the world’s oldest and largest inhabited castle, continues to serve as a working royal residence and a symbol of British heritage. The castle is open to visitors most of the year, but was closed to the public for the state visit. Regular tours, family activities, and special events will resume after the high-profile closure, with discounted tickets available for those on Universal Credit starting in October.
What’s Next for Windsor Castle?
With the castle reopening to the public soon, visitors can once again explore its storied halls, St. George’s Chapel (the burial place of Queen Elizabeth II), and enjoy interactive tours for families. The recent state banquet is a reminder that Windsor Castle remains not just a tourist attraction, but a living stage for history in the making.
Takeaway: The Trump state banquet at Windsor Castle was more than a diplomatic dinner—it was a powerful display of tradition, alliance, and royal spectacle, reinforcing Windsor’s place at the heart of British and global affairs.
Sources
1. 155 feet long table, exquisite menu: Inside Trump's royal dinner at ...
2. Windsor Castle
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4. ABC News - Breaking News, Latest News and Videos
5. Royal jewels shine at Windsor Castle state banquet for Trump visit
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7. Trump UK visit live: President hails 'eternal' US-British bond at state ...
