Call me an utter snob but I prefer state banquets held at Windsor Castle over those at Buckingham Palace. Buckingham Palace is like being inside a sparkling jewellery box, with candlelight reflecting off endless mirrors — but it feels quite purpose-built. It’s all business, masquerading as a good time. Whereas Windsor Castle has castellations, bits carved out of wood, nooks and crannies to explore, suits of armour and enormous vaulted ceilings. It’s an honest-to-God castle. And seeing as we’re all playing dress up in our tiaras, we may as well be in one.
With Buckingham Palace off limits for state occasions during its renovations, last night US president Donald Trump had the honour of being hosted at Windsor. Diplomacy is full of lucky coincidences. He was there for a state banquet held in his honour — a banquet I was also at. Why? Until November 8, I hold the position of being the Lady Mayoress of the City of London and accompany my husband, the Lord Mayor (Alastair King, not Sadiq Khan), to state banquets. Often we entertain visiting heads of state the night after they’re hosted by the Royal family though sadly, this time round, the City couldn’t tempt POTUS and FLOTUS to the Guildhall. Next time, maybe.
