Entente Cordiale at 'intimate' Windsor

NOTHING showcases royalty like a state visit, with resplendent marching bands, spectacular carriage processions, a glittering state banquet and hundreds of adoring crowds.

- with Royal Editor EMILY FERGUSON

But what made last week's welcome for French president Emmanuel Macron so special was that the ceremonial events were showcased at Windsor, not Monarchy HQ (Buckingham Palace).

Due to major refurbishment works at the London residence, all state visits will take place at Windsor Castle until 2027.This means Donald Trump will also receive a royal red carpet welcome at the Berkshire residence later this year.

Having the ceremonial splendour at a new location felt different to the state visits of old.