Another Queen sighting
This week Sue and I have had a lovely time talking to all kinds of people around Windsor. In particular, those in the know about Her Majesty's comings and goings. On Tuesday we chatted to the Head Warden of Windsor Great Park and he kindly gave us instructions to enable us to see the Queen up close on her way to Ascot later in the week.
So today after brunch at Carluccio's we armed ourselves with umbrellas, cameras and snacks and set off. Upon arriving at Rangers Gate we were issued a pass and drove on through the park and village to a designated area where four royal carriages and their associated staff (groomsmen, footmen, drivers and riders) were gathering in their traditional finery. We watched and waited for about half an hour until they received the signal and embarked on their procession to the part of the park where they were to to collect the Royal party.
With further directions we drove to the place where the changeover from cars to carriages was to take place. We didn't have to wait long. The Queen and Prince Phillip arrived to applause and "three cheers for the Queen!" They took their time changing over and we were so fortunate to be part of the well-wishers, some of whom were making a day of the occasion and had arranged picnics. There were even tables with lace clothes and vases of flowers!
With the Queen settled, the procession went on its way to Ascot and the crowd dissipated. The sun had come out and, having no wish to leave the park, we drove casually around all the places we usually have to walk, including the village and Bishopsgate. Sue spotted an ice-cream sign outside the Post Office so we spent a lovely while talking to the man there. By this time James was just about done in so we headed home.
It was a truly special occasion and one Sue and I will always remember. She certainly timed her visit well!
Photos are here.
So today after brunch at Carluccio's we armed ourselves with umbrellas, cameras and snacks and set off. Upon arriving at Rangers Gate we were issued a pass and drove on through the park and village to a designated area where four royal carriages and their associated staff (groomsmen, footmen, drivers and riders) were gathering in their traditional finery. We watched and waited for about half an hour until they received the signal and embarked on their procession to the part of the park where they were to to collect the Royal party.
With further directions we drove to the place where the changeover from cars to carriages was to take place. We didn't have to wait long. The Queen and Prince Phillip arrived to applause and "three cheers for the Queen!" They took their time changing over and we were so fortunate to be part of the well-wishers, some of whom were making a day of the occasion and had arranged picnics. There were even tables with lace clothes and vases of flowers!
With the Queen settled, the procession went on its way to Ascot and the crowd dissipated. The sun had come out and, having no wish to leave the park, we drove casually around all the places we usually have to walk, including the village and Bishopsgate. Sue spotted an ice-cream sign outside the Post Office so we spent a lovely while talking to the man there. By this time James was just about done in so we headed home.
It was a truly special occasion and one Sue and I will always remember. She certainly timed her visit well!
Photos are here.
posted by Merrilyn at
Saturday, June 23, 2007
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