The Queen has arrived at Buckingham Palace to kick-start the Coronation Festival, a four-day event commemorating her sixty years on the throne.Dressed for the glorious English weather in a white dress with blue rose-printed pattern, the Queen enjoyed the sunshine and gave a broad smile as she was driven up in a golf buggy. She looked elegant wearing white gloves and a matching pearl necklace and earrings.
The Queen arrived alongside Prince Charles and Camilla, the Duchess of Cornwall, and the trio set off for a tour of the festivities in the palace grounds.With just days to go until Prince William and Kate Middleton's royal baby is due, the little one's imminent arrival seems to be the words on everyone's lips, Camilla's included. "We are very excited, immensely looking forward to it and waiting for the phone call," she said.They paid a visit to the palace's beautiful Summer House, which had been decorated by students from The Queen Elizabeth Scholarship Trust.Her Majesty has been presented with various gifts, including a wicker corgi that resembles her own beloved pets and a sculpture of her granddaughter Zara Phillips riding her horse Toytown.
Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie, both donning summery dresses, have also been spotted in the grounds. They were seen chatting to traders in the food and drinks area, and looked particularly amazed by a gorgeous three-tiered chocolate cake.Members of the public who have bought their £90 tickets will also be able to meet businesses that have supplied the British royal family with goods in the last five years or more, and have earned a Royal Warrant of Appointment for their efforts.Luxury car brands in particular will be promoting the finest vehicles of Britain, with the Queen's own Bentley State Limousine on display.
Guests can also treat themselves to a taste of renowned British brands such as Bendicks, Walkers Shortbread, summer favourite, Pimm's as well as Prestat Finest Chocolate and Truffles, adored by late author of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Roald Dahl.Later this evening, the palace gardens will come alive with the sound of music from Welsh singer Katherine Jenkins, English tenor Russell Watson, songstress Katie Melua and pop rock band The Feeling. The National Youth Orchestra and the English National Ballet will also perform at the evening gala.