Garter Day is one of the most traditional in the royal calendar. The Most Noble Order of the Garter is an order of chivalry founded by Edward III in 1348 and is the most senior order in the country.

Appointments are solely up to the Sovereign and made at their personal discretion. There no more than 24 living companions, or members, at any one time in addition to The King who is Sovereign of the Order and the heir to the throne.

The order includes Supernumerary Knights and Ladies who might be foreign monarchs or other members of the Royal Family.

King Edward III founded the order and the traditional year of foundation is typically presented as 1348 (when it was formally proclaimed.) However, in The Complete Peerage, under “The Founders of the Order of the Garter,” it states the order was instituted as 23 April 1344. Edward III was said to have been inspired by the tales of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table. He made up his own group of honourable knights, which is what we now know to be The Order of the Garter.

During the annual Garter Day procession The King and Knights walk in grand velvet robes, insignia, and plumed hats during one of the most traditional ceremonies of the year. The event takes place at Windsor Castle, and members are accompanied by a marching band and Officers of the Order, all in grand ceremonial dress.

The day starts with the Sovereign formally investing any new Companions. All are then invited to a lunch before they process on foot to a service at St. George’s Chapel. During the service, new Companions are installed. 

There are a limited number of tickets for the public to watch the procession happen. People interested must put in their request during the beginning of the year.