The grandeur, the formality, the unique protocol: a behind-the-scenes look at a nation's official visit.
The state visit of US President Donald Trump to the UK in 2025 was a grand spectacle, filled with tradition and diplomatic significance. The visit, marked by a lavish state banquet held in St. George’s Hall, was attended by King Charles III, Queen Camilla, Catherine, Princess of Wales, Prince William, and First Lady Melania Trump.
State visits are a significant part of the UK's diplomatic calendar, serving as a platform to showcase the country's best and achieve specific aims, such as trade deals, policy change, or investment. During Trump's visit, the menu for the state dinner included organic summer vegetables and an iced blackcurrant parfait with elderflower jelly. The wine list featured an English sparkling wine made by a French champagne house.
The ceremonial welcome for Trump took place at Horse Guards Parade, a traditional part of state visits. However, instead of the usual carriage procession, Trump arrived by helicopter at Buckingham Palace, allegedly scorching the grass. This was due to security concerns, as was the case during his first visit in 2019, when there was no carriage procession.
Buckingham Palace is the usual venue for state visits, but it is currently undergoing renovations. As a result, Windsor Castle was used as an alternative venue. The magnificent banqueting table in St George’s Hall took six days to construct and lay with the royal china, glassware, and cutlery.
During the visit, Princess Catherine wore a glimmering gold gown and the Lover's Knot Tiara at the state banquet, while Melania Trump wore a striking wide-brimmed hat. At the French state visit, the three most senior women each wore a color of the Tricolore flag - the Princess of Wales in red, the Queen in white, and Madame Macron in blue. Catherine wore head-to-toe burgundy and a Chanel bag during the welcome ceremony.
The monarch acts on the advice of the Prime Minister during state visits. The Prime Minister decides to whom the invitations for state visits go. In this case, the 'unprecedented' offer to Trump was extended on the King's behalf by Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
State visits often include visits to the UK Parliament and 10 Downing Street on subsequent days. During Trump's visit, these visits were likely to have taken place, providing opportunities for further discussions and negotiations.
The Royal Family is utilised as a form of 'soft power' during state visits, helping to strengthen international relationships and promote the UK's interests. Despite any personal differences, members of the Royal Family, such as Prince William and Princess Catherine, were present to welcome Trump and his wife, Melania, during their state visit.
In the past, the late Queen entertained controversial figures during state visits, including the tyrannical communist dictator of Romania and Zimbabwe's brutal Robert Mugabe. However, the state visit of Trump in 2025 was a testament to the UK's ability to maintain diplomatic relations with world leaders, regardless of their political beliefs.
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