The Queen was all smiles as she attended the opening day of The Royal Windsor Horse Show on Wednesday. Her Majesty, 88, couldn't have looked happier as she soaked in the summer-like weather and jovial atmosphere at the show, set on the grounds of Windsor Castle, Berkshire. As an experienced horse rider with much knowledge of equestrian matters, the Queen was in her element as she inspected the programme and watched the action alongside fellow horse enthusiasts.
© Photo: RexQueen Elizabeth at the Royal Windsor Horse Show
While the reigning monarch is usually dressed to the nines for annual races such as Ascot and the Epsom Derby, the Queen decided to go casual for her off-duty day out. The mother-of-four opted for a yellow cardigan and tweed skirt, wrapping up with a navy jacket. Watching her horse Tower Bridge compete in the Novice Heavyweight Hunter class, the Queen looked to be having a fantastic time as she blended in with the crowd and chuckled along with her friends. Participants in the show were also seen exercising their horses along the River Thames, while others basked in the sunshine and enjoyed the rides in the nearby fairground.
© Photo: RexQueen Elizabeth dressed casually
The Queen has grown up around horses and has shown no signs of giving up one of her favourite pastimes. Just last month the much-loved royal was snapped going for a ride with her head groom Terry Pendry. For the outing Her Majesty chose her fell pony Carltonlima Emma, who is reportedly one of her favourite mounts. The Queen has about 25 animals or so, and is also a keen breeder, often buying horses from Kentucky to maintain lineage.
