King and Queen greet German president at start of historic state visit - Frank-Walter Steinmeier and his wife were met outside Windsor and Eton Riverside train station, with the famous castle as the backdrop.

King Charles and Queen Camilla were joined by the Prince and Princess of Wales at the event honoring German president Frank-Walter Steinmeier.

The first day of the German state visit concluded with a grand State Banquet – see the best photos of the event, including of the Prince and Princess of Wales

King Charles and Queen Camilla may be hosting the German President and First Lady from 3-5 December, but it is the Prince and Princess of Wales who will be at the vanguard of the historic state visit

Princess Kate's holiday event drew a royal crowd, including her children

Guests at the banquet enjoyed a lavish menu including a Black Forest gateau cocktail which was created especially for the occasion in tribute to the King and Queen's German visitors, with the idea of serving a new tipple personalised for each state banquet a tradition started by Charles.

In a sartorial show of solidarity, both Queen Camilla and Catherine donned royal blue as they welcomed the President and First Lady of Germany

The Royal Family officially kicked off the holiday season with Princess Kate’s annual Together at Christmas concert on Friday, December 5, and as the royals look forward to Christmas at Sandringham, one former butler is giving insight into the family’s gifts.

King and Queen welcome German president for first state visit in 27 years - Couple were warmly met by the King and Queen after being greeted by the Prince and Princess of Wales