Windsor Castle A Royal Year -The Four Seasons 464

Paulie Walnuts
12 Feb 201354:52
EducationalLearning
32 Likes 10 Comments

TLDROver a year, exclusive access to Windsor Castle reveals the Queen's favorite home, showcasing royal ceremonies, history, and traditions. The documentary highlights the 300 staff members' roles, from cleaning and grooming horses to preparing banquets. It covers private family moments, public events, and the Queen's deep connection to Windsor. The castle's rich history, traditions, and annual rituals, like Garter Day and Royal Ascot, are detailed, emphasizing Windsor's enduring significance and its vibrant, living community.

Takeaways
  • 🏰 Windsor Castle is the Queen's favorite home and has been the setting for over 1,000 years of royal history, ceremonies, and traditions.
  • πŸ‘‘ The Queen is deeply devoted to Windsor Castle, considering it a constant in her life and a fixed point in her yearly calendar.
  • πŸ›‚ The castle is not merely a museum but a living, working environment for the 300 staff members who maintain it and serve the royal family.
  • πŸŽ₯ This documentary provides exclusive access to the behind-the-scenes world of the castle, revealing its secrets and the daily lives of its inhabitants.
  • 🐎 The Queen has a strong connection with horses, training and keeping them at Windsor, and taking a keen interest in their lineage and well-being.
  • 🎩 Garter Day is a significant and ancient event at Windsor Castle, involving a procession of the Queen and her hand-picked Knights of the Garter.
  • πŸ‘— The Royal Ascot is a major social and racing event, attracting a large crowd and known for its extravagant fashion and the Queen's participation.
  • 🎼 The changing of the guard is a ceremonial tradition that serves both as a tourist attraction and a security measure for the monarch.
  • πŸ•° The castle's clockmaker is responsible for maintaining the 450 clocks across the estate, including adjusting them for daylight saving time.
  • 🍽️ The household staff pays meticulous attention to detail, from the arrangement of flowers to the folding of napkins, especially for royal events.
  • 🧣 The Irish Guards are part of the castle's community, bringing a sense of history and tradition to their role as protectors of the Queen and the castle.
Q & A
  • What is the significance of Windsor Castle to Queen Elizabeth II?

    -Windsor Castle is the Queen's favorite home, offering security, familiarity, and a fixed point in her year amidst an extraordinary calendar of events and traditions.

  • How many staff members work and live at Windsor Castle?

    -Approximately 300 staff members serve at Windsor Castle, maintaining the state apartments, tending to fireplaces, grooming horses, and preparing banquets.

  • What role does the member of the royal family, who has been the ranger of the Great Park for over 50 years, play in the Windsor Castle's events?

    -The member of the royal family, specifically Prince Philip, has been involved in the management and improvements of the castle grounds, including the redesign of the rose beds and the creation of a pergola for the unused Orangery.

  • What is the significance of the Garter Day at Windsor Castle?

    -Garter Day is a colorful and ancient ritual where the Queen and her hand-picked Knights of the Garter participate in a velvet robe procession, celebrating the order founded by Edward III in 1348.

  • What is the role of the Queen's Master of Ceremonies during Garter Day?

    -The Queen's Master of Ceremonies, such as Colonel Sir Malcolm Ross, is responsible for ensuring the Garter procession is flawless, managing the rehearsals and the procession itself.

  • What is the significance of the Order of the Garter in the context of British tradition?

    -The Order of the Garter is the senior British order of chivalry and represents an important part of English identity and tradition, with its roots dating back to the 14th century.

  • What is the role of the military Knights of Windsor in the castle?

    -The military Knights of Windsor are a group of distinguished retired soldiers who lend dignity to events, primarily tasked with praying for the monarch and participating in ceremonial duties.

  • What is the significance of the Windsor Greys in the royal mews?

    -The Windsor Greys are a breed of horses that are trained to pull royal carriages at state occasions, forming an important part of the royal mews and ceremonial events.

  • What is the role of the Stud Groom in the royal stables?

    -The Stud Groom, such as Terry Pendry, is in charge of all the Queen's horses at the castle, ensuring they are well cared for and prepared for the Queen's riding and ceremonial events.

  • How does the changing of the guard ceremony at Windsor Castle serve both tradition and tourism?

    -The changing of the guard is a historic ritual that showcases the tradition of the army and serves as an important tourist attraction, drawing visitors who are interested in witnessing this famous ceremony.

  • What is the significance of the Royal Ascot event in the royal calendar?

    -Royal Ascot is the biggest event in the British racing calendar, attracting over 300,000 people each year, and is known for its elegant fashion and tradition, including the presence of the royal family.

Outlines
00:00
🏰 Behind the Scenes at Windsor Castle

Over the course of a year, the video provides exclusive access to the hidden world of Windsor Castle. It delves into royal ceremonies, historical traditions, and the daily lives of the 300 staff members who maintain the castle, tend to the Queen's needs, and prepare for various events. The video also highlights the personal connection of the Queen to Windsor, showcasing its significance in her life and the intricate calendar of events that punctuate the year.

05:03
🌹 Prince Philip's Garden Innovations

Prince Philip discusses the evolution of the castle's garden, detailing how he redesigned the layout for better management and aesthetic appeal. He recalls past uses of the Orangery, including as a swimming pool, and the garden's role in family gatherings during Easter. The segment illustrates the practical and sentimental aspects of the garden's development and its ongoing importance to the royal family.

10:05
πŸ‡ Windsor's Garter Day and Military Traditions

The narrative moves to Garter Day, a historic and colorful ceremony at Windsor Castle. The preparations involve various members of the royal household and military personnel ensuring everything is perfect for the event. The video emphasizes the importance of protocol, rehearsal, and tradition, showcasing the dedication and effort required to maintain these ancient customs.

15:06
πŸ‘‘ The Grandeur of the Garter Day Ceremony

As Garter Day approaches, the focus shifts to the meticulous preparations for the grand procession and the accompanying lunch. The segment highlights the intricate details, from the folding of napkins to the arrangement of flowers, and the participation of esteemed figures like Sir Edmund Hillary. The commitment to upholding tradition and the honor associated with the Garter Knights are underscored.

20:07
🎩 Royal Ascot and Windsor Grays

The video captures the excitement and pageantry of Royal Ascot, emphasizing the importance of fashion and the involvement of the Windsor Grays. It showcases the meticulous preparations for the event and the enthusiasm of the attendees. The Queen's participation and the anticipation around her horses' performance add a personal touch to this grand spectacle.

25:09
πŸ‡ Ascot Highlights and Racing Traditions

Continuing with Royal Ascot, the narrative follows the preparation and performance of the Queen's horses. It provides insights into the personal stakes for the Queen and her trainer, Sir Michael Stout. The segment captures the excitement of the races and the unique traditions that define Ascot, from fashion statements to the ceremonial roles of the Windsor Grays.

30:12
🏰 The Changing Guard and Windsor Life

This part of the video focuses on the daily routines and ceremonial duties of the guards at Windsor Castle. It provides a glimpse into the lives of the soldiers, their connection to Windsor, and their role in protecting the monarch. The segment also touches on the personal stories of the guards, highlighting their sense of duty and the honor of serving at Windsor.

35:12
🌳 The Windsor Community and Castle Life

The narrative shifts to the broader Windsor community, illustrating the sense of camaraderie and shared responsibility among those who live and work in the castle. From summer barbecues hosted by the governor to the intricate task of maintaining the castle clocks, the video showcases the daily life and the enduring traditions that make Windsor a living, breathing institution.

40:14
πŸ•°οΈ Keeping Time at Windsor Castle

Clockmaker Steve Davidson's meticulous work in maintaining Windsor Castle's 450 clocks is highlighted. The segment delves into the challenges and rewards of ensuring that these historic timepieces function accurately. It provides a unique perspective on the importance of punctuality in the royal household and the effort required to keep the castle running smoothly.

45:15
πŸŽ„ Festive Traditions and Reflections

As the year draws to a close, the video captures the festive spirit at Windsor Castle. From gathering the Christmas tree to carol singing, the segment reflects on the community's efforts to celebrate and uphold traditions. It also touches on the poignant moments, such as the private funeral for Princess Alice, underscoring the castle's role as a place of both joy and solemnity.

50:20
🎼 Windsor's Year-End Rituals

The final part of the video encapsulates the seasonal activities and preparations for the New Year at Windsor Castle. It highlights the enduring traditions, the sense of continuity, and the castle's significance as a constant in the lives of the royal family and the wider community. The segment emphasizes the castle's living history and its importance as a symbol of stability and heritage.

Mindmap
Keywords
πŸ’‘Windsor Castle
Windsor Castle is a royal residence in England, known as the Queen's favorite home. It serves as a significant symbol of royal tradition, ceremony, and history, playing a central role in the documentary. The castle has stood for 1,000 years and has hosted many significant events, including royal ceremonies, banquets, and family gatherings.
πŸ’‘Royal Ceremony
Royal ceremonies are formal events that involve the royal family and are steeped in tradition and history. These ceremonies at Windsor Castle include state banquets, garter days, and other public and private events that are meticulously planned and executed. They highlight the continuity and grandeur of the monarchy.
πŸ’‘Garter Day
Garter Day is an annual event that celebrates the Order of the Garter, the highest order of chivalry in the United Kingdom. Established in 1348 by Edward III, it involves a procession and a service at St. George's Chapel. The Queen and selected knights participate in this colorful and historic event, emphasizing the tradition and honor associated with the order.
πŸ’‘State Apartments
The state apartments are the grand rooms within Windsor Castle used for official events and ceremonies. They are maintained by a dedicated staff and are central to the castle's function as a working royal residence. These rooms host significant events such as state banquets and receptions.
πŸ’‘St. George's Chapel
St. George's Chapel is a historic church located within Windsor Castle. It is the site of many royal ceremonies, including weddings, funerals, and the annual Garter Day service. The chapel is a symbol of the castle's religious significance and its role in royal traditions.
πŸ’‘Windsor Great Park
Windsor Great Park is a large parkland surrounding Windsor Castle, known for its natural beauty and recreational use by the royal family. The park includes facilities for horse riding and other outdoor activities. It is closely associated with the castle's history and the Queen's personal enjoyment.
πŸ’‘Royal Household Staff
The royal household staff are the employees who work at Windsor Castle, ensuring its upkeep and supporting royal events. This includes cleaners, cooks, grooms, and ceremonial staff. Their roles are crucial to the daily operation of the castle and the execution of royal duties and events.
πŸ’‘Order of the Garter
The Order of the Garter is the most prestigious order of chivalry in the UK, founded by Edward III in 1348. Membership is limited to 24 knights, chosen personally by the Queen. The order's history and ceremonies, including Garter Day, are integral to the traditions observed at Windsor Castle.
πŸ’‘Royal Ascot
Royal Ascot is a renowned horse racing event held annually in Ascot, near Windsor. It is attended by the royal family and features a mix of racing, fashion, and pageantry. The event highlights the royal family's connection to horse racing and its role in British cultural traditions.
πŸ’‘Queen's Guard
The Queen's Guard is a ceremonial unit responsible for protecting royal residences, including Windsor Castle. They participate in various ceremonies and are known for their distinctive uniforms. Their presence underscores the military traditions associated with the monarchy and the security of the royal family.
Highlights

Exclusive access to the behind-the-scenes world of Windsor Castle, the Queen's favorite home.

Introduction to the 300 staff members who serve the monarchy and maintain the castle.

A look at the royal family member who has been the ranger of the Great Park for over 50 years.

Windsor Castle's history spanning 1,000 years and its significance to the royal family.

The castle's role as a constant in the Queen's life amidst changing times.

Insider view of the Queen's daily official engagements conducted from Windsor during Easter court.

The relationship between the Queen and her horses, and her personal involvement in their care.

Garter Day, a colorful and ancient castle ritual with a velvet robe procession.

The responsibilities of the Queen's Master of Ceremonies during Garter Day.

Preparations for the traditional Garter Day lunch in the Waterloo chamber.

The role of the military Knights of Windsor in the castle's events and their dedication.

The Queen's personal interest in her horses, knowing their lineage and naming them herself.

The training and preparation of the Windsor Greys for ceremonial duties.

Royal Ascot, a major event in the racing calendar, and its significance to the Queen.

The Queen's participation in the Royal Ascot with her own runner in the race.

The changing of the guard ceremony at Windsor Castle and its importance to the castle's security.

The Governor of the Castle's role during the royal family's absence, maintaining the community spirit.

The castle's clockmaker's task of maintaining the 450 existing clocks across the estate.

The impact of the Queen's presence on the community and the operation of the castle.

The bell ringers marking important dates in the royal year with their efforts appreciated by the family.

The Queen's autumn return to Windsor and the private funeral of Princess Alice of Gloucester.

The preparation for Christmas at Windsor Castle, emphasizing the castle's role as a living organism.

Transcripts
Rate This

5.0 / 5 (0 votes)

Thanks for rating: