Garden Party

A party fit for The King

Every year, 30,000 people are granted the honour of joining The King at a Royal Garden Party.

Taking place three times a year at Buckingham Palace and once at Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh, the events welcome deserving people from all walks of life to enjoy the hospitality of the Royal Family.

With music playing as tea and refreshments are served, guests are invited to enjoy the beautiful surroundings of the Palace. The arrival of The Queen and other members of the Royal Household is signalled at 4pm as The National Anthem is played by a military band.

Originally started by Queen Victoria in the 1860s, Royal Garden Parties have moved from the presentation of debutantes to a celebration of public service.

Can you nominate someone for an invitation to a Royal Garden Party?

Guests are chosen to attend by a number of organisations, including Lord-Lieutenants, the Armed Forces, the Civil Service, Diplomatic Corps, societies and charities.

As an ambassador for good in the community, it is the deep and joyful privilege of the Lord-Lieutenant of Shropshire to extend invitations to members of the public who have shown exceptional commitment.

It is the ardent goal of the Shropshire Lieutenancy to reach and reward members of the public who have shown a selfless commitment to improve their community. As always, recognition is vital to recognise and inspire these unsung heroes.

If there is someone that you believe is richly deserving of an invitation to a Royal Garden Party, please do bring them to the attention of the Lord-Lieutenant so the thanks of the county may be extended to this individual.

It is important to note that nominees should not be made aware that they have been nominated, and it is preferred that immediate family members are not the nominating party.

Nominations should be made by the end of October for consideration for the May/June Royal Garden Party. For successful nominees, an initial letter will be received from the Shropshire Lieutenancy Office by January the following year.

Dress and attendance

Invitations to a Royal Garden Party enable guests to bring one other person with them, such as their partner, parent, or child over the age of 18.

Expected dress at a Royal Garden Party would be a morning suit or lounge suit for men, and day dress for women – often including fascinators or hats.

To nominate someone for a Royal Garden Party invitation please contact the Lord-Lieutenancy of Shropshire.