Trump’s State Visit to Windsor Castle

On September 17, 2025, President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania participated in a horse-drawn carriage procession alongside King Charles and Queen Camilla through the George IV gate, marking what was described as the biggest honor guard for such an event.

The procession followed a private route that was secured and closed off to the public for safety reasons. Armed Forces personnel lined the path, enhancing the significance of the occasion, which was accompanied by the U.S. and British national anthems.

In the first carriage, known as the Irish State Coach, President Trump and King Charles were seen deeply engaged in conversation as the procession began. In a separate carriage, the Scottish State Coach, Melania and Queen Camilla were also spotted chatting. It’s worth noting that this carriage is one of the oldest in the Royal Mews.

Following them was a semi-state landau carrying the Prince and Princess of Wales, along with Warren Stephens, the U.S. ambassador to the UK, and his wife, Harriet.

Next in line was Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff, who were traveling in an Ascot Landau coach. The final carriage featured senior aides to the Trumps and shared the same vehicle style.

It’s interesting to think about how the last time Trump visited the UK for a state event was back in June 2019, during his first term, hosted by the late Queen Elizabeth II. The dynamics of these visits can really shift over time, can’t they?