Her Majesty holds receptions throughout the year at Buckingham Palace, Windsor Castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse.

Guests are drawn from all walks of life.

Some receptions have a theme, such as ‘Women in Business’ or ‘Maritime Britain’. At other times, the guests may be sporting team members who have been particularly successful, or Commonwealth teams who are competing in the UK.

On the 8 december 2011, The Queen and The Duke of Edinburgh held a reception to recognise Exploration and Adventure at Buckingham Palace. View the multi media blog.

In May 2011 The Queen, with The Duke of Edinburgh, held a reception to recognise young people working in the British Performing Arts at Buckingham Palace.

In 2009 Her Majesty gave reception at Buckingham Palace to mark the 60th anniversary of the Commonwealth London Declaration.

Watch footage from a Buckingham Palace reception held to celebrate the British Clothing Industry:



Guests are invited by The Master of the Household on behalf of Her Majesty, and they are usually asked to arrive for 6.00 pm. Drinks are served by Household staff and canapés, made in the Royal kitchens, are served.

The Queen, accompanied by other members of the Royal Family, circulates amongst the guests, and usually departs at 8.00 pm.

Watch footage of a reception to mark the Indian State Visit in October 2009: