The ceremonial room within Windsor Castle’s State Apartments where the Sovereign officially invests new Knights and Ladies Companion with the Order's blue velvet robes and insignia.
Experience royal history: The Order of the Garter at Windsor Castle
Step into the extraordinary world of chivalry, pageantry, and British royal tradition. Founded in 1348 by King Edward III, the Most Noble Order of the Garter is the oldest and most senior order of knighthood in Britain. For nearly seven centuries, its spiritual home and ceremonial stage has been none other than Windsor Castle.
Whether you are fascinated by royal heraldry, medieval history, or the annual splendour of Garter Day, a visit to Windsor Castle brings this living tradition to life.
Why Windsor Castle is the heart of the Order
Windsor Castle isn't just a royal residence; it is the official seat of the Order of the Garter. From grand royal investitures to solemn chapel services, the castle grounds hold the secrets and symbols of Britain’s most exclusive chivalric honour.
The splendour of Garter Day
Every year in June, Windsor Castle hosts Garter Day, one of the most dramatic and picturesque events on the royal calendar.
During this historic celebration:
- The royal investiture: The Sovereign formally invests any new Knights or Ladies Companions in the Garter Throne Room.
- The monarch’s lunch: Members attend a traditional luncheon hosted by the King in the majestic St George’s Hall.
- The grand procession: Wearing striking dark blue velvet mantles, white satin sashes, and feathered hats, members of the Royal Family and Garter Knights process down the hill from the Upper Ward to St George's Chapel.
- The service: A grand service of thanksgiving takes place inside St George’s Chapel, attended by members of the public holding special precinct tickets.
Pro tip
While Garter Day precinct tickets are strictly ballot-allocated, visiting Windsor Castle throughout the rest of the year gives you intimate access to the chapel, banners, and halls where this annual spectacle takes place.
What to see on your visit
When you explore Windsor Castle, you walk directly in the footsteps of Garter Knights past and present:
Frequently asked questions about the Order of the Garter
The motto is "Honi soit qui mal y pense" (Anglo-Norman French for "Shame on him who thinks evil of it"), famously embroidered in gold lettering on the Order's blue garter.
Membership is limited to the Sovereign, the Prince of Wales, and just 24 living Companion Knights or Ladies personally chosen by the King in recognition of outstanding public service.
Yes, entry to St George’s Chapel is included with your standard castle ticket (closed to visitors on Sundays for church services).
According to legend, King Edward III created the order after the Countess of Salisbury’s garter fell off while dancing. To save her from embarrassment, the King tied it around his own leg, uttering "Honi soit qui mal y pense" ("Shame on him who thinks evil of it"), which became the order's motto.
While the investiture inside the Garter Throne Room and lunch in St George's Hall are private, members of the public can apply for precinct tickets to watch the grand outdoor royal procession down Castle Hill to St George's Chapel.
Appointments are made solely at the personal discretion of the reigning Sovereign (currently King Charles III) without ministerial advice, usually to recognize exceptional public service or achievements.
The Order is strictly limited to 24 living Companion Knights or Ladies at any given time, in addition to the Sovereign, the Prince of Wales, select members of the Royal Family, and foreign monarchs.
When a Companion Knight dies, their silk banner, helmet, and crest are removed from above their stall during a poignant ceremony called the "Laying Up of the Banner," though their heraldic brass stall plate remains permanently attached to the chapel seat.
