The King, Queen, Prince William and Kate welcomed Donald Trump and his wife Melania to Britain today as the US President's historic second state visit began.
The Prince and Princess of Wales were deployed at the start of the royal charm offensive to greet the Trumps in the Walled Garden on the Windsor estate when the Marine One helicopter arrived - with Mr Trump telling Kate: 'You're beautiful', according to a lip reader.
In one of a number of flourishes being added to the American leader's trip, the helicopter landed on the lawn of the garden nestled in the private Home Park.
William and Kate welcomed the Trumps and walked a short distance with them to meet King Charles III and Queen Camilla outside Victoria House to launch the trip.
The Queen spent yesterday afternoon resting at Windsor Castle, having pulled out of attending the Duchess of Kent's funeral at Westminster Cathedral after suffering from acute sinusitis - but royal aides said she had recovered to greet the Trumps today.
The timings were slightly behind schedule with Mr Trump arriving after the planned time of 11.55am. The King arrived with the Queen in the state Bentley at 12.02pm.
Camilla was photographed wearing a vibrant sapphire blue dress, a matching coat by Fiona Clare and hat by Philip Treacy and a sapphire and diamond brooch. Kate was seen in an Emilia Wickstead dress, a hat by Jane Taylor and a feather brooch.
After a 21-minute wait, the President eventually emerged from his Marine One helicopter with his wife Melania at 12.16pm, with their arrival celebrated with music.
This was played by the Band of the Household Cavalry who were wearing state dress, a uniform designed in the 17th century and made from pure gold thread.
Kate gave Mr Trump a big smile as they shook hands at Windsor Castle. The Trumps and the Waleses then walked side by side, with William and Mr Trump chatting. The President held his wife Melania's hand as they moved towards Victoria House.
William was heard to say, 'This is my father' to Mr Trump as they approached the King, as Charles gestured with a small wave of his hand while stood next to Camilla.
Mr Trump shook hands with the King and the pair chatted enthusiastically together, with the President also placing his hand on Charles's arm as they shook hands.
The Trumps then joined the King and Queen and William and Kate for a carriage procession through the Windsor estate towards the castle.
The King and Mr Trump could be seen chatting as the procession set off. The Queen and the First Lady were in the following carriage, and were also deep in discussion.
President Donald Trump and King Charles III share a conversation
The royals at Windsor Castle with President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump
President Donald Trump salutes as he stands beside King Charles III and Queen Camilla with Melania Trump on the left as Kate and Prince William listen on the far left at Windsor Castle
King Charles III and US President Donald Trump review the guard of honour at Windsor Castle,
US President Donald Trump and King Charles III in Windsor today as the state visit begins
The Prince and Princess of Wales during the state visit by the President at Windsor Castle
The ceremonial welcome in the Quadrangle at Windsor Castle this afternoon
King Charles III and US President Donald Trump review the guard of honour at Windsor Castle
The Prince and Princess of Wales with President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump
The ceremonial welcome in the Quadrangle at Windsor Castle this afternoon
King Charles III and US President Donald Trump review the guard of honour at Windsor Castle,
The Prince and Princess of Wales followed in the coach behind, and as the carriages proceeded along the route, the American and British national anthems were played.
A decision was made to use the little-known Victoria House in the Royal Kitchen Gardens at Frogmore as the backdrop to the start of the major royal charm offensive.
This offered a personal, family-centred greeting especially for Mr Trump - but also embraced pomp and pageantry and the military theatrics he is known to adore.
There will be no public-facing engagements for the President during his trip, with thousands expected to take part in major protests against his two-day stay.
US secretary of state Marco Rubio arrived on the Windsor estate by car ahead of Mr Trump's arrival.
He shook hands with staff and surveyed the scene on the estate before heading inside a property to wait for the royal welcome.
Two sniper positions could be seen on a roof in the distance with security at peak levels.
A luxury coach bearing some of the US official suite including Assistant to the President and Chief of Staff Susie Wiles also arrived on the estate.
Increased numbers of plain clothes security gathered and milled around outside ready for the royal welcome.
James Roscoe, the UK's charge d'affaires in Washington, was seen at Windsor taking a picture of the spectacle.
Mr Roscoe is the most senior diplomat at the embassy in Washington following Lord Mandelson's sacking as ambassador over the Jeffrey Epstein scandal.
Veteran public servant Mr Roscoe has held a string of senior roles both within government and the royal household.
Just after midday today, as Mr Trump shook hands with the King, a 41-round gun salute was fired from six First World War era guns simultaneously by The King's Troop Royal Horse Artillery on the East Lawn of Windsor Castle.
The Honourable Artillery Company also staged a salute more than 20 miles away at the Tower of London.
The scale and spectacle of the military ceremonial on show for Mr Trump is unprecedented and marks the largest military ceremonial welcome for a state visit to the UK in living memory.
Kate, William, Donald Trump and Charles wait for the carriages after arriving at Windsor Castle
King Charles III and US President Donald Trump review the guard of honour at Windsor Castle
King Charles III and US President Donald Trump during today's carriage procession in Windsor
King Charles III and US President Donald Trump review the guard of honour at Windsor Castle,
UK Ambassador to the US, James Roscoe takes a picture ahead of the ceremonial welcome
King Charles III and US President Donald Trump review the guard of honour at Windsor Castle
King Charles III and US President Donald Trump review the guard of honour at Windsor Castle,
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and White House Special Envoy Steve Witkoff in Windsor
President Donald Trump and King Charles III arrive in the Irish State Coach at Windsor today
King Charles III and US President Donald Trump review the guard of honour at Windsor Castle
President Donald Trump and King Charles III arrive in the Irish State Coach at Windsor today
The Prince of Wales (left) and King Charles III (right) with US President Donald Trump today
King Charles III and President Donald Trump ride in a carriage during a procession today
King Charles III and US President Donald Trump review the guard of honour at Windsor Castle
President Donald Trump salutes as he stands beside King Charles III and Queen Camilla
King Charles III and US President Donald Trump during today's carriage procession in Windsor
King Charles III and Queen Camilla receive President Donald Trump and Melania Trump today
The presidential limousine, also called The Beast, follows the carriage procession today
President Donald Trump and King Charles III arrive in the Irish State Coach at Windsor today
Queen Camilla and Melania Trump during today's carriage procession in Windsor
Members of the Honourable Artillery Company fire a 41-gun salute next to Tower Bridge today
The presidential limousine, also called The Beast, follows the carriage procession today
In total, around 120 horses and 1,300 members of the British military were involved in the ceremonial welcome at Windsor, with 160 personnel from the Royal Marines and Royal Navy, 1,000 from the British Army and 140 from the Royal Air Force.
This is well in excess of the 850 who took part in French President Emmanuel Macron's state visit in July.
Key timings for first day of Trump's state visit
Arrival and procession - 12pm
Donald and Melania Trump were greeted by the Prince and Princess of Wales just after midday, before being formally welcomed by the King and Queen as a royal salute was fired from six First World War-era guns on the east lawn of Windsor Castle and at the Tower of London.
The Trumps were treated to a carriage procession through the Windsor estate with Charles, Camilla, William and Kate along a route towards the castle that was lined by members of the Armed Forces, with three military bands from the Royal Marines, the Army and the RAF.
Guard of Honour - 12.20pm
Mr Trump, accompanied by Charles, inspected the Guard of Honour at Windsor Castle.
The Massed Band of the Grenadier Guards, Coldstream Guards and Scots Guards performed the UK and US national anthems.
After this, members of the Royal Family joined the Trumps in the State Dining Room and the visitors will be taken to see a special display of Royal Collection items that relate to the United States of America, in the Green Drawing Room.
In a private moment, Mr and Mrs Trump will visit the late Queen Elizabeth II's tomb in St George's Chapel, Windsor, and lay a wreath. It will be followed by a short tour of the chapel and a musical performance from the chapel choir.
Beating Retreat - 4.20pm
A group of 200 military musicians will perform a rendition of Beating Retreat on the East Lawn of Windsor Castle, watched by spectators including UK and US military personnel and military families.
Beating Retreat is a military spectacle and ceremony that originated in the early years of organised warfare and symbolises the end of the day when camp gates were closed and ceremonial flags were lowered.
It takes place on Horse Guards Parade every year in June, when the salute is taken by a member of the Royal Family.
Flypast - 4.45pm
Mr Trump will be treated to a flypast by the Red Arrows and UK and US F-35 military jets on the east lawn at Windsor Castle.
The four Lightnings will demonstrate the close ties between the UK and US Armed Forces and comprise two F-35B from number 207 Squadron, the United Kingdom's F-35B Operational Conversion Unit based at RAF Marham, and two F-35As from the 493rd Fighter Squadron, United States Air Force, based at RAF Lakenheath.
It will be the first time US and UK aircraft have flown together for such a visit.
Grand state banquet - 8.30pm
The traditional grand state banquet is set to take place at Windsor Castle in the evening, with both Mr Trump and Charles set to give speeches as the glittering event gets underway.
The banquet will conclude with traditional Scottish airs performed by 12 pipers from the Scots Guards.
Mr Trump will hold talks with Sir Keir Starmer at the Prime Minister's country residence, Chequers, on Thursday.
The Trumps joined the King and Queen and William and Kate for a carriage procession through the Windsor estate towards the castle.
Eighty soldiers from the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment formed the Sovereign's Escort travelling with the carriages, with the Life Guards dressed in their red tunics and white plumed helmets and Blues and Royals in their blue tunics and red plumes.
The processional route, which was not open to the public, was lined by 22 half-companies of personnel from throughout the Royal Navy, the Royal Marines, the British Army and the Royal Air Force.
As they made their way to the castle, the Trumps passed not far from Frogmore House, where Prince Harry and Meghan Markle had their evening wedding reception in May 2018.
They also travelled near Frogmore Cottage, briefly home to the Duke and Duchess of Sussex before they quit the working monarchy in 2020 and moved to America.
The gable-ended Victoria House was previously lived in by the former Head Gardener for the Royal Estate Thomas Ingram in the 19th century, and in recent years has provided accommodation for Household staff.
It was renovated using £800,000 of the taxpayer-funded Sovereign Grant for roof and masonry repairs between 2014-16.
The yellow-bricked Victoria House bears its construction date of 1844 on the front of the house.
On either side of the gravel drive leading out of the property are wrought iron domed plant supports where rose bushes, still showing the occasional pink bloom, are growing.
The walled garden, comprised of two large fields separated by a wire fence and surrounded by a red brick wall, in front of the house has never been used as a helicopter landing site before.
The carriages then passed through the castle's George IV Gate at 12.15pm, ready for the full ceremonial welcome in the quadrangle with a Guard of Honour.
A gigantic royal standard, which is used for royal celebration days, was flying from the Royal Tower at the castle.
The King and Donald Trump travelled in the Irish State Coach in the first carriage.
The Queen and the First Lady followed in the second carriage, the Scottish State Coach.
The Prince and the Princess of Wales travelled together in the third carriage, the Semi-State Landau, with the US ambassador to the UK Warren Stephens and his wife.
In the fourth carriage, an Ascot Landau, was US secretary of state Marco Rubio, US secretary of the treasury Scott Bessent, assistant to the president and chief of staff Susie Wiles and assistant to the president and special envoy for peace missions Steve Witkoff.
In the fifth carriage, another Ascot Landau, was assistant to the president and deputy chief of staff for operations Beau Harrison, assistant to the president and deputy chief of staff for strategic implementation Nicholas Luna, assistant to the president and deputy chief of staff for strategic implementation Dan Scavino and Hayley Harrison, assistant to the president and chief of staff to the First Lady.
The State Colours of the Grenadier Guards, Coldstream Guards and Scots Guards greeted the party - the first time that three State Colours, rather than just one, will be on parade at such an occasion.
The UK and US national anthems were performed during the welcome.
As the carriages swept into the castle's quadrangle, an 'extra-large' Guard of Honour, gave a royal salute.
The President and First Lady joined the King and Queen on the dais, while the Prince and Princess stood to the side as a second royal salute was given and the anthems sounded again.
The President and First Lady stood to attention, Mr Trump saluting and Melania with a hands on her heart as the Stars and Stripes rang out.
Queen Camilla and Melania Trump during today's carriage procession in Windsor
Tthe carriage procession to Windsor Castle today ahead of the ceremonial welcome
The Prince and Princess of Wales during the carriage procession to Windsor Castle today
King Charles III and Queen Camilla receive President Donald Trump and Melania Trump today
The Prince and Princess of Wales receive Donald Trump and Melania Trump in Windsor today
President Donald Trump salutes as he stands beside King Charles III and Queen Camilla with Melania Trump on the left as Kate and Prince William listen on the far left at Windsor Castle
The Princess of Wales, Queen Camilla and First Lady Melania Trump in Windsor this afternoon
The Prince and Princess of Wales ahead of the arrival of the Trumps in Windsor this afternoon
The Prince and Princess of Wales with President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump
The Princess of Wales, Queen Camilla and First Lady Melania Trump in Windsor this afternoon
Members of the military form up in a guard of honour for the ceremonial welcome today
The Prince and Princess of Wales ahead of the arrival of the Trumps in Windsor this afternoon
The Prince and Princess of Wales with President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump
Queen Camilla and Melania Trump during today's carriage procession in Windsor
Members of the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment form up ahead of the procession today
Britain's King Charles III shakes hands with US First Lady Melania Trump in Windsor today
The Princess of Wales walks during the arrival of President Donald Trump this afternoon
King Charles III and US President Donald Trump review the guard of honour at Windsor Castle
The Prince and Princess of Wales with President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump
Lieutenant Colonel Storm Green, Captain of the Guard of Honour, then invited the President to inspect the bespoke Guard of Honour, which was made up of Nijmegen Company Grenadier Guards, No 7 Company Coldstream Guards, and F Company Scots Guards.
Mr Trump appeared fascinated as he was escorted down the first two ranks of soldiers, with the King following a few steps behind as per tradition.
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President Trump appeared delighted at being asked to inspect the Guard of Honour.
The King appeared to make a point - possibly because of previous criticism levelled at the US leader for walking in front of the late Queen - of inviting his guest to walk ahead of him as they traversed the first two lines.
The King also lagged slightly behind as the US leader chatted with Lt Col Green, a South African officer of the Coldstream Guards who is the Commander of London Central Garrison.
He paused for a second to take in the spectacle, as the Queen and Melania chatted happily on the Royal Dais, before walking forward.
A few seconds later he appeared again, walking ponderously, before stopping to thank the Lt Col profusely - four times in fact.
Members of the Household Division Foot Guards line up along the route in Windsor today
King Charles III and US President Donald Trump review the guard of honour at Windsor Castle
The Prince and Princess of Wales during the ceremonial welcome at Windsor Castle today
King Charles III and US President Donald Trump review the guard of honour at Windsor Castle
King Charles III ahead of the arrival of US President Donald Trump in Windsor this afternoon
Queen Camilla ahead of the arrival of US President Donald Trump in Windsor this afternoon
A helicopter carrying Donald and Melania Trump arrives at Windsor Castle this afternoon
The route ahead of the carriage procession for Donald Trump in Windsor this afternoon
The King's Troop Royal Horse Artillery and their gun carriages ride through Windsor today
Members of the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment form up ahead of the procession today
King Charles III arrives ahead of the carriage procession to Windsor Castle this afternoon
A helicopter carrying Donald and Melania Trump arrives at Windsor Castle this afternoon
Queen Camilla arrives ahead of the carriage procession to Windsor Castle this afternoon
The guard of honour waits for the ceremonial welcome in the Quadrangle at Windsor Castle
The King's Troop Royal Horse Artillery and their gun carriages ride through Windsor today
The guard of honour waits for the ceremonial welcome in the Quadrangle at Windsor Castle
White House staff disembark from a helicopter ahead of the arrival of President Trump today
Royal fans outside Windsor Castle today as President Trump's state visit gets underway
The guard of honour waits for the ceremonial welcome in the Quadrangle at Windsor Castle
King Charles III arrives ahead of the carriage procession to Windsor Castle this afternoon
The King appeared to crack a joke, touching President Trump on the arm as the Guard of Honour captain raised his blade to his bearskin signalling the end of the inspection and saying: 'Watch the sword!' before chuckling and looking coyly at his guest.
The King then leant forward and invited him walk back to dais for the Rank and March Past.
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Back on the dais, the King and President watched a march past by the King's Troop Royal Horse Artillery, the Sovereign's Escort and the Guard of Honour and appeared to be getting on famously.
The Queen and First Lady had also been deep in conversation while their husbands were on the parade ground, with the Prince and Princess of Wales standing to the side of the awning on their right,
Proceedings were watched by large contingents of staff from the royal household and the White House, gathered at the Equerries Entrance.
As the ceremony drew to a close, the King and President led the royal party to the Sovereign's Entrance of the Castle and headed inside for a private lunch.
Earlier, Lt Col Green, a South African officer of the Coldstream Guards in the British Army, said there were 'nerves' before commanding the guard of honour at Windsor Castle.
A helicopter carrying Donald and Melania Trump arrives at Windsor Castle this afternoon
Guardsmen prepare for a ceremonial welcome in the Quadrangle at Windsor Castle today
The Royal Navy Ceremonial Guard line up on the carriage procession route in Windsor today
Marine Force One leaves the US ambassador's residence Winfield House in London today
Guardsmen prepare for a ceremonial welcome in the Quadrangle at Windsor Castle today
Security forces stand on the roof of Windsor Castle today ahead of President Trump's arrival
Police officers patrol in Windsor this morning as the state visit gets underway
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Windsor today ahead of the President's arrival
Members of the Honourable Corps of Gentlemen at Arms at Windsor Castle this morning
The Royal Navy Ceremonial Guard line up on the carriage procession route in Windsor today
Members of the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment form up ahead of the procession today
Police walk past a cardboard cutout featuring an image of King Charles III in Windsor today
An armed police officer holds his weapon as he stands guard outside Windsor Castle today
A gigantic royal standard is pictured flying from the Royal Tower of Windsor Castle today
Lt Col Green gave the guard of honour's commands during the ceremonies before inviting President Trump to inspect the troops.
He said: 'There are some nerves but that sort of apprehension makes you feel alive and like it's an important event, which it is.'
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He went on: 'It's certainly the biggest state visit that I've taken part in, so there's been a bit more rehearsal than normal, slightly different movements and dimensions I suppose than usual.
'So lots of rehearsal, lots of shining of kits, lots of discussion, lots of co-ordination behind the scenes, which luckily isn't my role today because that's definitely the most difficult bit of it, so plenty of preparation.'
He added: 'Big events like this, even if you have a small role, you obviously want to do it well and show yourself off, show your organisation off and show your country off in best possible light, so I'm keen to get it right.'
After the welcome, members of the Royal Family will join the Trumps in the State Dining Room and the visitors will be taken to see a special display of Royal Collection items that relate to the US, in the Green Drawing Room.
In a private moment, Mr and Mrs Trump will visit the late Queen Elizabeth II's tomb in St George's Chapel, Windsor, and lay a wreath. It will be followed by a short tour of the chapel and a musical performance from the chapel choir.
Later this afternoon, a group of 200 military musicians will perform a rendition of Beating Retreat on the East Lawn of Windsor Castle, watched by spectators including UK and US military personnel and military families.
Beating Retreat is a military spectacle and ceremony that originated in the early years of organised warfare and symbolises the end of the day when camp gates were closed and ceremonial flags were lowered.
Who's who in today's Carriage Procession
The carriage procession through the Windsor estate today towards the castle will feature this order:
The Irish State Coach
- King Charles III
- President Donald Trump
The Scottish State Coach
- Queen Camilla
- First Lady Melania Trump
Semi-State Landau
- Prince William
- Kate, Princess of Wales
- Warren Stephens, US Ambassador
- Harriet Stephens, US Ambassador's wife
Ascot Landau
- Marco Rubio, US Secretary of State
- Scott Bessent, US Treasury Secretary
- Susie Wiles, President's Chief of Staff
- Steve Witkoff, Special Envoy for Peace Missions
Ascot Landau
- Beau Harrison, President's Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations
- Nicholas Luna, President's Deputy Chief of Staff for Strategic Implementation
- Dan Scavino, President's Deputy Chief of Staff
- Hayley Harrison, First Lady's Chief of Staff
It takes place on Horse Guards Parade every year in June, when the salute is taken by a member of the Royal Family.
Mr Trump will then be treated to a flypast by the Red Arrows and UK and US F-35 military jets on the east lawn at Windsor Castle.
The four Lightnings will demonstrate the close ties between the UK and US Armed Forces and comprise two F-35B from number 207 Squadron, the UK's F-35B Operational Conversion Unit based at RAF Marham, and two F-35As from the 493rd Fighter Squadron, US Air Force, based at RAF Lakenheath.
It will be the first time US and UK aircraft have flown together for such a visit – which the Ministry of Defence said was a demonstration of the strength of the UK-US defence and security relationship.
The RAF is to be equipped with 12 new F-35A aircraft - the jet flown by the US air force in the flypast, it was announced in June.
This evening, Mr and Mrs Trump will be wined and dined at a sumptuous white tie state banquet at Windsor Castle.
Royal hospitality at its most meticulous and lavish will be deployed in honour of the Trumps as they join some 160 guests in the impressive St George's Hall for the extravagant feast.
Every element of the banquet is checked and approved by the King, down to the very last detail.
Charles and the Queen usually inspect the table beforehand in person, making their way round the room in the afternoon and examining the preparations with the Master of the Household, Vice-Admiral Sir Tony Johnstone-Burt.
In a tradition started by the King, a bespoke cocktail will be created specially for the occasion, no doubt celebrating the 'special relationship' between the UK and the US.
For French President Emmanuel Macron's state dinner, the alcoholic tipple was named L'entente - in a nod to the L'Entente Cordiale - and it combined British gin with lemon curd and French pastis and was garnished with dried French cornflowers and English roses, while the Japanese state visit was honoured with a yuzu marmalade sour, featuring whisky and marmalade and resembling the flag of Japan.
Mr Trump is a teetotaller so will not indulge in sampling the variety of vintage wines on offer, nor the cocktail unless it is alcohol-free.
Preparations for a state banquet start six months before the big event and it usually takes household staff around three days to lay the table.
Guests - who have been invited on the basis of their cultural, diplomatic or economic links to the US - will dine on an exquisite menu, written in French, prepared by royal chefs and served on historic, priceless dinner sets.
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Former US president Barack Obama's state banquet in 2011 was sprinkled with Hollywood stardust, with a guest list including actor Tom Hanks, actress Helena Bonham Carter and director Tim Burton.
But the dinner for Mr Trump's last state visit in 2019 was more trade and business rather than showbusiness.
The King and Queen will head members of the royal family, with the Prince of Wales expected to attend, and the Princess of Wales likely, but not yet confirmed, to join him, along with other Windsors.
The monarch will be seated next to Mr Trump in the middle of one side of the table, with Mrs Trump and Camilla opposite them on the other side.
At Mr Macron's banquet, Kate was seated next to the president at his right hand side, while William was opposite, next to France's First Lady Brigitte Macron.
Other royals will be spread around the table between the guests.
Much has shifted within the royal family over the last six years amid a change in reign, the occurrence of royal scandal, and the passing of time.
A royal supporter poses for photos in front of Windsor Castle this morning
Members of the Honourable Corps of Gentlemen at Arms at Windsor Castle this morning
The Royal Navy Ceremonial Guard line up on the carriage procession route in Windsor today
Scenes outside Windsor Castle this morning as President Trump's state visit begins
Police officers patrol in Windsor this morning as the state visit gets underway
A supporter of US President Donald Trump stands outside Windsor Castle this morning
Trump supporter Augustine Chukwuma Obodo outside Windsor Castle this morning
The Royal Navy Ceremonial Guard line up on the carriage procession route in Windsor today
Police officers patrol in Windsor this morning as the state visit gets underway
Police officers stand guard by a temporary fence blocking off the Long Walk at Windsor today
Police officers patrol in Windsor this morning as the state visit gets underway
Jack Rankin, the MP for Windsor, stands outside Windsor Castle ahead of the state visit today
Absent will be the disgraced Duke of York, who attended last time but since then was forced to step down from the working monarchy over his friendship with paedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein.
The attending royals have yet to be announced, but at the last state banquet for Mr Trump, there were 16 family members.
The late Queen Elizabeth II, who hosted the occasion in 2019, died three years ago.
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The Duke of Kent is grieving his wife the Duchess of Kent, whose funeral took place yesterday, and Princess Alexandra is now frail and has not attended banquets for several years.
Missing too will be Lord Mandelson, who was sacked as US ambassador by the Prime Minister just days before the event, after it emerged he sent supportive messages to sex offender Epstein.
Sir Keir Starmer, who is facing a challenging week amid the furore over Lord Mandelson, the fallout of Angela Rayner's resignation and frustrations from MPs, will be expected to put on his white tie and tails and turn up to join the guests.
But Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey is boycotting the banquet in a protest against Mr Trump's position on Gaza.
Royal chef Mark Flanagan and his team of 20 chefs will serve seasonal produce, sourced from royal estates.
Charles and Camilla will have selected the final menu, which will be expected to include a nod to the US, from a series of four alternatives.
Members of the media stand outside Windsor Castle this morning to cover the state visit
A figurine of Donald Trump is displayed for sale in the window of a shop in Windsor today
Lieutenant Colonel Storm Green, a South African officer of the Coldstream Guards, British Army, who will command the guard of honour in the Quadrangle at Windsor Castle today
People walk under US flags outside Windsor Castle this morning as the state visit begins
Trump supporter Augustine Chukwuma Obodo outside Windsor Castle this morning
A gigantic royal standard is pictured flying from the Royal Tower of Windsor Castle today
Artist Kaya Mar holds a painting depicting Donald Trump and King Charles in Windsor today
A royal supporter poses for photos in front of Windsor Castle this morning
Seasonal flowers handpicked from the gardens at Windsor Castle and Windsor Great Park will be on show arranged in elaborate displays along the table in silver-gilt centrepieces.
After the banquet, the flowers are usually donated to Floral Angels, a charity of which Camilla is patron, which delivers the blooms to hospices, elderly care homes and shelters.
The impressive St George's Hall is the largest room in the castle at 55.5 metres long (180ft) and nine metres wide (29.5ft), and the 50 metre (164ft) table stretches its full length.
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The castle's staff will have started constructing the mahogany table almost a week ago.
Tablecloths and napkins - folded in the shape of a Dutch bonnet - cruet sets, elaborate floral decorations, priceless plates, candelabra and six glasses - for water, a champagne toast, red and white wines, a dessert wine and port - will all have carefully been put in order.
Every place setting must be precisely 18 inches apart - with measuring sticks used to ensure absolute precision.
The footmen and women must make sure every chair is exactly the same distance from the table and each glass is the same distance from the front edge of the table.
Some 19 stations are set up around the edge of the room, each manned by four staff - a page, footman, under butler and a wine butler - who use a traffic light system to co-ordinate the serving of courses.
Detailed diagrams are used to illustrate the serving plans and a list of special instructions sets out any dietary requirements and requests for royals and other guests.
Staff must also put in place a special cushion on the King's seat to ease his long-standing back issues.
The Royal Navy Ceremonial Guard line up on the carriage procession route in Windsor today
Members of the Honourable Corps of Gentlemen at Arms at Windsor Castle this morning
Security forces stand on the roof of Windsor Castle today ahead of President Trump's arrival
A supporter of US President Donald Trump stands outside Windsor Castle this morning
An armed police officer holds his weapon as he stands guard outside Windsor Castle today
Royal-themed souvenirs are pictured for sale near Windsor Castle this morning
A supporter of US President Donald Trump stands outside Windsor Castle this morning
The Royal Navy Ceremonial Guard line up on the carriage procession route in Windsor today
Police officers patrol the River Thames around Windsor this morning for the state visit
Trump supporter Augustine Chukwuma Obodo outside Windsor Castle this morning
Police officers stand guard by a temporary fence blocking off the Long Walk at Windsor today
A gigantic royal standard is pictured flying from the Royal Tower of Windsor Castle today
Members of the media stand outside Windsor Castle this morning to cover the state visit
Royal fans outside Windsor Castle today as President Trump's state visit gets underway
A supporter of US President Donald Trump stands outside Windsor Castle this morning
Charles also likes a bowl of olive oil, rather than butter pats, at his setting for his bread.
The dress code is tiaras and white tie - or national dress.
Members of the Royal Family wear sashes and badges known as orders if they have been given them in recognition of royal service.
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Speeches take place at the start at around 8.30pm when the King and Mr Trump will both make a speech and propose toasts to one another, followed by the playing of the national anthems.
The banquet will feature performances by the Duchess of Edinburgh's String Orchestra and The State Trumpeters of the Household Cavalry.
The hall's gothic style ceiling with impressive oak beam roof is studded with the coats of arms of every single Knight of the Garter since the order was founded in 1348.
Its walls and ceiling were decimated in the Windsor Castle fire of 1992 and had to be painstakingly rebuilt.
Just before the banquet begins, members of the royal family will be lined up to be personally introduced to Mr Trump and First Lady Melania.
Then, the King and Queen and the American couple will be formally introduced to and shake hands with each and every guest as they file into the ballroom.
The Royal Navy Ceremonial Guard line up on the carriage procession route in Windsor today
Media crews stand outside Windsor Castle this morning as the state visit gets underway
Royal-themed souvenirs are pictured for sale near Windsor Castle this morning
Cardboard cut-outs of Charles and Camilla in a window at the Windsor Castle pub today
Artist Kaya Mar holds a painting depicting Donald Trump and King Charles in Windsor today
Scenes outside Windsor Castle this morning as President Trump's state visit begins
An armed police officer holds his weapon as he stands guard outside Windsor Castle today
A figurine of Donald Trump is displayed for sale in the window of a shop in Windsor today
A security team stand on duty outside Windsor Castle this morning as the state visit begins
An armed police officer holds his weapon as he stands guard outside Windsor Castle today
A supporter of US President Donald Trump stands outside Windsor Castle this morning
Police officers patrol in Windsor this morning as the state visit gets underway
Police officers walk near Windsor Castle this morning as the state visit gets underway
Trump supporter Augustine Chukwuma Obodo (right) outside Windsor Castle this morning
Members of the Honourable Corps of Gentlemen at Arms at Windsor Castle this morning
A gigantic royal standard is pictured flying from the Royal Tower of Windsor Castle today
The King and the president will then make their way into the room side by side.
The end of the banquet is signalled by the arrival of 12 pipers processing round the room, a tradition started by Queen Victoria. The pipers from the Scots Guards will play traditional Scottish airs.
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Mr Trump will hold talks with Sir Keir at the Prime Minister's country residence Chequers tomorrow, with aviators from RAF Halton lining the route as he arrives.
He will also be treated to an air display by the British Army's Red Devils Parachute Display Team and a performance by two RAF pipers at Chequers.
The US leader was greeted by Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper as well as RAF personnel from The King's Colour Squadron forming a guard of honour as he arrived yesterday evening at London Stansted Airport in Essex.
He then took the Marine One helicopter to Winfield House in London's Regent's Park, where he stayed the night.
Mr Trump told reporters that Mr Stephens was 'doing really well' and said the 'relationships are great'.
Asked about his feelings towards the UK, he said: 'I love it. I love Turnberry, I love Aberdeen. I have a lot of things here that warm my heart. I want to tell you. It's a very special place.'
Talking about his relationship with the King, he added: 'He's been a friend of mine for a long time, and everybody respects him, and they love him.'
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Mr Trump also said it was a 'great honour' to be the first US president to have two state visits and to be hosted at 'the ultimate' Windsor Castle.
Outside Windsor Castle this morning, Kaya Mar, an artist from Spain who now lives in South East London, said he had made a dozen paintings of Mr Trump – including one depicting him as a caveman which he displayed.
He told the Mail: 'The man is a narcissist. He will hijack the occasion, he will hijack the protocol, he won't have any regard for his host.'
The artist claimed the second state visit was a 'bribe' for a good trade deal with the US, but the event made a 'clown' of the King.
He added: 'The Government wants to have a good trade relationship and how they get that is a bribe - and today is that bribe. That's the desperation of the UK. Every country works in the national interest but there's no need to make a clown of yourself. We shouldn't trust him.'
The Royal Navy Ceremonial Guard line up on the carriage procession route in Windsor today
An image of Donald Trump alongside Jeffrey Epstein is displayed on a vehicle in Windsor today
Police officers patrol in Windsor this morning as the state visit gets underway
A person wears US and UK flag themed clothing at Windsor Castle this morning
Police walk past a cardboard cutout featuring an image of King Charles III in Windsor today
A man walks dogs as a police officer stands guard by a fence blocking off the Long Walk today
Trump supporter Augustine Chukwuma Obodo outside Windsor Castle this morning
The Queen Victoria Statue next to the flag of the United States of America in Windsor today
Royal-themed souvenirs and one of US President Donald Trump are on sale in Windsor today
Members of the Honourable Corps of Gentlemen at Arms at Windsor Castle this morning
Armed police officers guard the entrance to Windsor Castle ahead of Mr Trump's arrival today
Members of the media stand outside Windsor Castle this morning to cover the state visit
Supporters of US President Donald Trump stand outside Windsor Castle this morning
A figurine of Donald Trump is displayed for sale in the window of a shop in Windsor today
Media crews stand outside Windsor Castle this morning as the state visit gets underway
Artist Kaya Mar holds a painting depicting Donald Trump and King Charles in Windsor today
The father-of-two said his provocative painting had not attracted the attention of the police this morning, and he had no plans to stage a vocal protest aimed at any dignitaries.
He said: 'You just have to show people the truth.'
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Another protester in Windsor said: 'I am here to show my absolute disgust for Trump. We should not be doing this.'
But Trump supporter Martin Taylor, 44, said he had visited Windsor to show 'great support' for the relationship.
He said: 'Trump is my hero. I love him. I think Britain loves him and he loves Britain. This is the highlight of my year.'
A few hundred people were gathered by Windsor Castle in total.
Some wore 'Make America Great Again' caps, while one man wore a hat saying 'Trump was right about everything'.
Others held US flags and pro-Trump banners.
Joseph Afrane, 61, an enthusiastic support of the Royal family and regular attendee of royal events, said he had travelled to Windsor from Battersea in London because he wanted to support the 'great' President Trump.
He said: 'I have come down to show my respect for the second historic state visit of President Trump, leader of the Western world. I came to the first state visit and he waved at me outside Buckingham Palace.'
The security guard, who moved to the UK from Ghana 30 years ago, said he was a 'staunch royalist' who was 'very grateful' for the life he had been able to build in the UK.
He said: 'I'm a British citizen and I think the royal family are doing a great job representing the UK.'
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But he added that he respected the right of others who planned to protest the president's state visit this week.
The father-of-two said: 'In terms of protests, it's part of democracy. As long as they protest legally and peacefully. Everyone is entitled to their opinion.'
Despite his support for President Trump, he also stated: 'We are very different countries with very different cultures. Here we have a head of state and a prime minister. Trumpism wouldn't work here.'
Windsor students Han Ali, 18, and Alana Burnett, 17, said they were still friends 'just about' despite claiming they have very different views on the president.
Han said: 'I don't think he's red carpet worth. I don't like his view.'
Alana, wearing a red Make America Great Again hat, added: 'I like him, I think some of his views are quite good.'
A royal supporter poses for photos in front of Windsor Castle this morning
Police officers walk near Windsor Castle this morning as the state visit gets underway
An image of Donald Trump alongside Jeffrey Epstein is displayed on a vehicle in Windsor today
Trump supporter Augustine Chukwuma Obodo outside Windsor Castle this morning
Cardboard cut-outs of Charles and Camilla in a window at the Windsor Castle pub today
Scenes outside Windsor Castle this morning as President Trump's state visit begins
Royal fans outside Windsor Castle today as President Trump's state visit gets underway
A figurine of Donald Trump is displayed for sale in the window of a shop in Windsor today
An armed police officer stands outside an entrance to Windsor Castle this morning
A supporter of US President Donald Trump stands outside Windsor Castle this morning
A figurine of Donald Trump is displayed for sale in the window of a shop in Windsor today
A royal supporter poses for photos next to Windsor Castle this morning
The Queen Victoria Statue next to the flag of the United States of America in Windsor today
Police officers patrol in Windsor this morning as the state visit gets underway
A person flies the flags of Israel and the United Kingdom outside Windsor Castle today
Members of the Honourable Corps of Gentlemen at Arms at Windsor Castle this morning
A group of Chagos Island residents living in the UK were staging a protest outside Windsor Castle, calling on President Trump to push for the island to remain British territory.
Spokeswoman Vanessa Mandaran Calu said: 'Our message for Trump is to speak to the King to save our British island. The US President has the power to stop this.'
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The Metropolitan Police said it was prepared for 'a significant operation' with as many as 50 protest groups expected to take part in today's march in central London.
More than 1,600 officers were being deployed today, including 500 assisting from other forces, Scotland Yard said.
Green Party leader Zack Polanski said he would be 'standing up to the bully Donald Trump and his poodle, Nigel Farage' before joining protesters in London later today.
The Green firebrand, who is in the line-up for a rally on Parliament Square organised by the Stop Trump Coalition, said: 'Donald Trump comes to Britain seeking credibility and to whitewash his own complicity in the genocide unfolding in Gaza.
'While the vast majority unite against Trump and everything he stands for, there will be one man who wants us to welcome him with open arms: Nigel Farage.
Trump supporter Augustine Chukwuma Obodo outside Windsor Castle this morning
Police officers patrol in Windsor this morning as the state visit gets underway
A supporter of US President Donald Trump stands outside Windsor Castle this morning
A man in a Union Jack suit stands outside a store in Windsor today as the state visit begins
Supporters of US President Donald Trump stand outside Windsor Castle this morning
Media crews stand outside Windsor Castle this morning as the state visit gets underway
A protester holds up a banner outside Windsor Castle today as President Donald Trump visits
An armed police officer holds his weapon as he stands guard outside Windsor Castle today
Artist Kaya Mar holds a painting depicting Donald Trump and King Charles in Windsor today
Scenes outside Windsor Castle this morning as President Trump's state visit begins
Royal fans outside Windsor Castle today as President Trump's state visit gets underway
Members of the media stand outside Windsor Castle this morning to cover the state visit
Cardboard cut-outs of Charles and Camilla in a window at the Windsor Castle pub today
Members of the media stand outside Windsor Castle this morning to cover the state visit
A supporter of US President Donald Trump stands outside Windsor Castle this morning
A royal supporter poses for photos in front of Windsor Castle this morning
'Farage pretends to be a man of the people, but he's really just a man of the super rich. Like Trump he seeks power, influence and money over all else.
'Our country has a proud tradition of standing up for the underdog. Today, that means standing alongside every child in Gaza; with all those in detention camps on the borders of the United States and with each and every one of those growing up in poverty here in Britain. And standing up to the bully Donald Trump and his poodle, Nigel Farage.'
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A small group of campaigners from the Stop Trump Coalition were in Windsor yesterday evening protesting the visit.
The man and woman chanted 'how many will you kill if you drill baby drill' and unfurled a banner that said: 'Oily Money Kills' at the event in Windsor Guildhall.
Thames Valley Police said the pair were removed by the event organisers and no arrests were made.
The force said it arrested four people on suspicion of malicious communications after images of the US President and Epstein were projected onto Windsor Castle, and two men for breaching airspace restrictions in place for Mr Trump's visit.
Chief Superintendent Felicity Parker said: 'We take any unauthorised activity around Windsor Castle extremely seriously. Our officers responded swiftly to stop the projection and four people have been arrested.
'We are conducting a thorough investigation with our partners into the circumstances surrounding this incident and will provide further updates when we are in a position to do so.'
Trump supporter Augustine Chukwuma Obodo outside Windsor Castle this morning
Members of the Honourable Corps of Gentlemen at Arms at Windsor Castle this morning
Police officers walk near Windsor Castle this morning as the state visit gets underway
A man in a Union Jack suit takes a selfie outside Windsor Castle this morning
Artist Kaya Mar holds a painting depicting Donald Trump and King Charles in Windsor today
A man in a Union Jack suit stands outside Windsor Castle today ahead of the state visit
A protester displays her T-shirt outside Windsor Castle today as President Donald Trump visits
A person flies the flag of Israel outside Windsor Castle today as the state visit begins
Members of the media stand outside Windsor Castle this morning to cover the state visit
A supporter of US President Donald Trump stands outside Windsor Castle this morning
A figurine of Donald Trump is displayed for sale in the window of a shop in Windsor today
A royal fan is dressed in a Union Jack suit in Windsor today as the state visit gets underway
Trump supporter Augustine Chukwuma Obodo outside Windsor Castle this morning
Political campaign group Led By Donkeys shared an image of the stunt to Instagram with the caption 'Hey Donald, welcome to Windsor Castle'.
Following the incident, a Cabinet minister said protests against Mr Trump's state visit were 'perhaps inevitable' but the US President and Sir Keir 'won't let any of that distract them'.
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Technology Secretary Liz Kendall said she had not seen reports of the projection incident, but told LBC: 'In today's world, many of these things are perhaps inevitable, but they won't let any of that distract them.
'They both want to deliver for their countries and their people.'
Also last night, two protesters from the activist group Fossil Free London were escorted out of a dinner organised by Republicans Overseas UK in Windsor.
The man and woman chanted 'how many will you kill if you drill baby drill' and unfurled a banner that said: 'Oily Money Kills'.
A Thames Valley Police spokesperson said: 'We received a report of a public order incident at a private event in Windsor Guildhall at approximately 8.45pm.
'Two individuals were removed by the event organisers and no arrests were made.'
US President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump at London Stansted Airport last night
Donald Trump shakes hands with Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper at Stansted last night
Donald and Melania Trump are greeted at Stansted Airport last night by Viscount Henry Hood
London Mayor Sir Sadiq Khan, who has previously been criticised by Mr Trump as 'a nasty person' who has 'done a terrible job' said last night that 'President Donald Trump and his coterie have perhaps done the most to fan the flames of divisive, far-right politics around the world in recent years'.
Writing in the Guardian, Sir Sadiq added: 'We must also tell President Trump and his supporters to stop talking down and denigrating our great capital city.
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'London is a global success story, no matter how much he wants to pretend otherwise. It's open, dynamic and safer than every US state in terms of homicide rates.'
Meanwhile, it was revealed Britain and the US had struck a tech deal that could bring billions of pounds of investment to the UK.
Sir Keir said the agreement represented 'a general step change' in Britain's relationship with the US that would deliver 'growth, security and opportunity up and down the country'.
The 'tech prosperity deal' will see the UK and US co-operate in areas including artificial intelligence (AI), quantum computing and nuclear power.
It comes alongside £31billion of investment in Britain from America's top technology companies, including £22 billion from Microsoft.
Microsoft's investment, the largest ever made by the company in the UK, will fund an expansion of Britain's AI infrastructure, which Labour sees as a key part of its efforts to secure economic growth, and the construction of the country's largest AI supercomputer.
An image of Donald Trump with disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein is projected onto Windsor Castle by campaign group Led By Donkeys last night after the President arrived in the UK
An image of Prince Andrew and Jeffrey Epstein was also projected onto Windsor Castle
The build-up to Mr Trump's second state visit has already seen London and Washington announce a deal on co-operating on building new nuclear power stations, and a £5billion investment by Google in Britain's AI sector.
It also follows the agreement of an economic deal in May this year that covered a reduction in some tariffs imposed by Mr Trump in April, although plans to eliminate US tariffs on British steel have now been shelved.
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It emerged on the eve of Mr Trump's visit that a proposed deal to secure the removal of the levy, which stands at 25 per cent, has been put on ice.
But the tech deal was praised by industry bosses, including Jensen Huang, founder of chip company Nvidia, which has agreed to deploy 120,000 advanced processors across the UK to help the British AI sector.
Other investments announced alongside the tech deal include:
- £1.5 billion from AI cloud computing company CoreWeave to expand data centre capacity and operations, including a partnership with UK firm DataVita
- £1.4 billion from Salesforce, aimed at making its UK business an AI hub for Europe, part of a £4.4 billion investment over the next five years
- More than £1 billion from UK-based AI Pathfinder to deliver additional compute capacity, starting in Northamptonshire
ChatGPT developer OpenAI has also agreed to partner with Nscale to deploy its Stargate data centre project at a new AI growth zone in the North East of England with sites in Blyth and Cobalt Park near Newcastle.
