The King, the Queen and the Prince and Princess of Wales have given a warm welcome to the President of Germany at the start of his historic state visit.

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

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.

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.

Prince William and the Princess of Wales will play a crucial role during the German state visit, which is set to last from 3-5 December

Photos from the German state banquet show a look of admiration between the King and his daughter-in-law, the Princess of Wales