- Royal wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle
- Couple declared man and wife in glorious ceremony
- Newlyweds greeted by 100,000 on tour of Windsor
- Reception: Details on food, dance and bridal speech
- Dress: British Givenchy designer behind gown
- Royal cuties: Princess Charlotte sticks tongue out
- Bishop: US wedding preacher who stole show
- Guests: Worlds collide as LA glitterati meet Windsors
- View from sofa: Gleeful gossip and Partridge moments
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have been proclaimed husband and wife after pledging their love to one another at a fairytale wedding at Windsor Castle.
After a service watched by an estimated global TV audience of 1.9billion, the new Duke and Duchess of Sussex emerged from the historic church set in the grounds of St George’s Chapel, beaming with delight.
At the top of the vast West Steps, where the West Door was decorated with hundreds of cream and white flowers and green foliage, Harry and his bride stopped and kissed to the delight of cheering onlookers.
An estimated more than 100,000 well-wishers lined the streets of Windsor to cheer the newlyweds as they started their married life with a tour in an open-topped Ascot Landau carriage.
The Queen’s grandson and the American former actress, who is now an HRH and a member of the British royal family, said their vows in front of 600 guests including the monarch and more than 30 members of the Royal family.
Ms Markle wore a stunning elegant white gown – with a white veil and boat neck – was created by British designer Clare Waight Keller, the first female Artistic Director at French fashion house Givenchy. Prince Harry and his best man the Duke of Cambridge are both wearing the frockcoat uniform of the Blues and Royals.
As they met at the altar, Prince Harry told his bride “you look amazing”, to which Meghan replied “thank you”. The couple tenderly held hands and exchanged smiles during the wedding ceremony.
Ms Markle’s delicate veil was five metres (16ft) long and made from silk tulle, with a trim of hand-embroidered flowers in silk threads, with two of her page boys carrying the ends as she made her way up the steps.
Her hair was styled in an up do and she wore the glittering Queen Mary’s Diamond Bandeau tiara, loaned to her by the Queen.
The pair set off on an open-top carriage ride through the streets of Windsor where an estimated more than 100,000 well-wishers had descended on the town for the royal nuptials.
As they paused on the steps, a smiling Ms Markle looked up at her new husband and asked: “Do we kiss?” Harry replied with a discreet: “Yeah.”
The new Duke and Duchess travelled in the Ascot Landau waving to the thousands of royal fans lining the streets and up the Long Walk, with Ms Markle exclaiming “wow” at their rapturous welcome.As the horse-drawn carriage returned to Windsor Castle ready for a lunchtime reception in the magnificent St George’s Hall, Prince Harry quipped: “I’m ready for a drink now.”
Ahost of stars were invited to join the happy couple in the chapel including US chat show queen Oprah Winfrey, tennis champion Serena Williams, actor George Clooney and his barrister wife Amal Clooney, Sir Elton John, David and Victoria Beckham and actor Idris Elba.
Prince Harry and Ms Markle gazed into each other’s eyes as they exchanged vows.
The Duke of Cambridge, in his role as best man, stepped forward to deliver the rings, with the couple smiling as they placed the bands on each other’s hands.
Unlike his brother, Prince Harry has chosen to wear a wedding ring
Loud cheers could be heard from outside St George’s Chapel as the Archbishop of Canterbury proclaimed the couple husband and wife.
Prince George and Princess Charlotte did not follow directly behind Harry and Meghan as they made their way back up the aisle, like the other bridesmaids and page boys.
Instead, the youngsters held the hand of their parents the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge as they made their way out of the chapel.
Ms Markle has become the first mixed race person in modern history to marry a British senior royal. She found fame in the US legal drama Suits playing the character Rachel Zane, and a number of her former co-stars, including Patrick J Adams and Gabriel Macht, were there for her big day.
Missing though, was Meghan’s father Thomas Markle, who was thousands of miles away in Mexico after pulling out just days ago due to ill health.
Ms Markle’s mother, Doria Ragland, was there for her daughter and the Prince of Wales was asked by the bride to step in and walk her up the aisle of the Quire to meet Prince Harry.
Prince Harry, 33, and 36-year-old Ms Markle became engaged following a whirlwind 16-month romance after going on a blind date in London.
As the couple join their guests for a reception in Windsor Castle hosted by the Queen, we are not expecting to see the bride and groom again until they depart for an evening reception at around 7pm.
Stay with us for the latest updates.
Jessica Mulroney posts of her royal wedding pride
Jessica Mulroney – one of Meghan Markle’s best friends – has posted of her pride of being involved in the royal wedding.
Ms Mulroney runs a bridal store in Toronto, where Meghan used to film Suits, and is said to have helped the bride choose her wedding gown.
The two became friends and she is married to Benedict Mulroney, the son of former Canadian prime minister Brian Mulroney.
The family were photographed arriving at Heathrow Airport with her family on Tuesday night.
The fraternal twin sons of Jessica and Ben are seven years old – and helped carry Ms Markle’s huge train today.
She posted a picture of them on Instagram with the caption simply reading: “Proud friend. Proud mom.”
Meghan to give speech at evening reception
Meghan Markle will give a speech at the evening reception hosted by the Prince of Wales at Frogmore House in Windsor.
Thomas Markle would have traditionally been the one to address guests at the event, to which 200 selected attendees have been invited.
But after a tumultuous week, it emerged the father-of-the-bride would not be attending Saturday’s service having undergone emergency heart surgery.
Kensington Palace had earlier announced that Ms Markle would speak at the afternoon reception hosted by the Queen, but later issued a correction to state she would be talking at the evening do.
Royal wedding body language expert: Meghan Markle was ‘strength of ceremony’
Meghan “was the strength” of her wedding ceremony to Prince Harry, as her body language showed she was constantly reassuring him, an expert said.
Despite the whole experience being completely new for Meghan she did not display a single sign of anxiety or nervousness – while her new husband, the Duke of Sussex, “was so patently nervous”.
Judi James, a body language expert, said Harry performed about 12 self-touching body checks, like pulling at his gloves and wringing his hands, within a few paces of getting out his car after arriving at St George’s Chapel in Windsor.
However Meghan, the latest member of the royal family, maintained complete calm throughout the ceremony to “help Harry through it”.
Ms James said: “Meghan was amazing. Walking up the aisle by herself, I looked for every smallest sign of suppressed anxiety and nervousness – there was absolutely nothing.
“I think she probably saw it as her role to help Harry through it rather than the other way round. She sat with her hand over his for quite a bit of the service as though she was reassuring him.
“To me, she was the strength when it came to the day and the actual performance.”
Wedding revellers face two-hour waits to board train
Revellers have begun the weary slog back home with current waits of around two hours to board a train back to London from Windsor, reports Joe Shute.
Despite the long queues, the festive atmosphere endures. Leila Souza, 61, and Adela Welch, 63, of Tampa Bay, Florida, are waiting in line still waving their custom-made placard celebrating “our American Princess”.
“We don’t mind waiting,” says Souza who is wearing a pair of sunglasses shaped like champagne flutes. “It has been a wonderful day and we would do it all over again.”
Rail staff are handing out free bottles of water to passengers waiting in the heat.
Prince Harry’s friend: It was a really lovely occasion, a beautiful day
Dean Stott, a friend of Prince Harry who last Saturday completed his cycle ride of the 14,000 mile Pan-American Highway in a record 99 days, was among the guests.
He told The Telegraph’s Patrick Sawer: “It was a really lovely occasion, a beautiful day. It was lovely to be able to make it back in time and it was an honour and a privilege to be there.”
Mr Stott, who attended the wedding with his wife Alana, added: “We wish them all the best. I’m afraid I can’t comment at all on what was in the speeches.”
Several other guests left saying they did not want to divulge the content of the speeches given at the reception.
View from the sofa: Gleeful gossip, Alan Partridge moments and a scene-stealing horse
Were you watching the ceremony on television at home? The Telegraph’s Michael Hogan watched all the main shows so you didn’t have to. Click here to read his review of the coverage.
Elton John performs ‘Circle of Life and Tiny Dancer’ at wedding reception
Sir Elton John performed at the lunchtime reception which followed Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s wedding ceremony, Kensington Palace has said.
The statement said: “Prince Harry asked Sir Elton to perform at the reception which was hosted by Her Majesty The Queen at St George’s Hall, Windsor Castle.
“Sir Elton performed for the newly married couple in recognition of the close connection he has with Prince Harry and his family.”
He previously sang at the funeral service for Harry’s mother, Diana, Princess of Wales.
One guest told The Telegraph the pop icon sang Circle of Life – made famous by the 1994 Disney film The Lion King – and Tiny Dancer.
‘Take your time’, spectators warned in mass Windsor exodus
After the ceremony, the estimated 100,000-strong crowd began to head for the railway station, causing long queues.
Repeated loudspeaker announcements warned well-wishers that the Cambridge Gate and the route to the station was very congested and urged: “Take your time.”
Attendees were asked to take the longer route to the station by walking the length of the Long Walk away from the castle.
Many families opted to enjoy the afternoon on the grass while the crowds departed, while hundreds of litter pickers set to work cleaning up any mess.
An announcement on the Long Walk said the railway station remained very crowded and there was a wait for services. People were asked to consider looking at what else Windsor has to offer.
Video: View from the crowd during carriage tour
Adoring fans pack into Los Angeles bar to watch royal wedding
Adoring fans in Meghan Markle’s hometown of Los Angeles wept tears of joy as they packed into a bar to watch the wedding of the new Duke and Duchess of Sussex.
Scores of well-wishers descended on the British-themed The Cat And Fiddle pub in Hollywood from 2am local time as Prince Harry and Meghan tied the knot in Windsor Castle.
Guests wore fancy dress, while staff served traditional English food and drink with the wedding showing on televisions around the bar.
At the first glimpse of Prince Harry, the crowd erupted into loud cheers and continued to welcome each royal arrival in a similar way.
Many wiped away tears as Meghan emerged from her car and into the sunshine wearing her pure white gown.
The crowd applauded throughout the ceremony – but the biggest cheer of the morning came for the newlyweds’ first kiss outside Windsor Castle.
As the new Duke and Duchess of Sussex left the castle, many in the bar embraced each other while wiping away tears.
Alana Hutchinson, 24, came dressed in her pyjamas and joked: “I loved it – except for the fact that Harry is now off the market, so my dreams are crushed!”
She added: “It was beautiful. The highlight for me was when Charles walked her down the aisle. I cried a little bit, it was really precious because I know that was such a big deal with her family, so to see her mom out there was really amazing.”
Claudia Chick, 22, is originally from London – but now lives in Los Angeles. She said: “The wedding was amazing, I was tearing up. Everyone was dressed beautifully, the ceremony was very passionate and it was different, which is great to see.
“The atmosphere here was great, everyone was glued to the screen, everyone was laughing together, everyone was crying together.”
Hannah Lucchesi, 22, is from Los Angeles. She said: “I loved it, it was amazing, it was beautiful, I loved Meghan’s dress and all of the flowers, it was amazing. The highlight for me was Prince George, just because he is my favourite.
“The bar was so fun, I love that there are so many people, even out in LA, that care about it and everyone seemed to be really enjoying it and there were lots of cheers.”
Video: Meghan’s former school watches wedding
More than 100,000 people lined streets around 30 deep
The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead has said that more than 100,000 people are estimated to have lined the route of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s wedding procession route in Windsor.
Meghan Markle to make speech at wedding reception
Meghan Markle will make a speech at her reception instead of her father who could not attend the wedding, Kensington Palace has confirmed.
The royal bride is one of three people to speak at the lunchtime reception, hosted by the Queen. The others are her new husband, Prince Harry, and the Prince of Wales.
The Duke of Cambridge, Harry’s best man, will act as compere.
The reception will also include the cutting of the wedding cake, which was designed by Claire Ptak and features elderflower syrup made at The Queen’s residence in Sandringham.
Kensington Palace✔@KensingtonRoyal
The wedding cake is to be served at the Reception. It was designed by Claire Ptak and features elderflower syrup made at The Queen’s residence in Sandringham from the estate’s own elderflower trees, as well as a light sponge cake uniquely formulated for the couple. #royalwedding
The food being served this lunchtime
The Queen is now hosting a lunchtime reception at St George’s Hall in Windsor Castle for around 600 guests drawn from the wedding service congregation.
Guests will be served a selection of canapés, including:
- Scottish Langoustines wrapped in Smoked Salmon with Citrus Crème Fraiche
- Grilled English Asparagus wrapped in Cumbrian Ham
- Garden Pea Panna Cotta with Quail Eggs and Lemon Verbena
- Heritage Tomato and Basil Tartare with Balsamic Pearls
- Poached Free Range Chicken bound in a Lightly Spiced Yoghurt with Roasted Apricot
- Croquette of Confit Windsor Lamb, Roasted Vegetables and Shallot Jam
- Warm Asparagus Spears with Mozzarella and Sun-Blush Tomatoes
Guests will also be served a selection of bowl food, including:
- Fricassee of Free Range Chicken with Morel Mushrooms and Young Leeks
- Pea and Mint Risotto with Pea Shoots, Truffle Oil and Parmesan Crisps
- Ten Hour Slow Roasted Windsor Pork Belly with Apple Compote and Crackling
Sweet canapés will also be served, including:
- Champagne and Pistachio Macaroons
- Orange Crème Brûlée Tartlets
- Miniature Rhubarb Crumble Tartlets
Click here for more about what’s happening at the reception.
‘I’m ready for a drink now’: What Harry said to Meghan (according to a lip reader)
As the carriage pulled away from the crowds into the gated grounds of Windsor Castle, Ms Markle seemed to be in awe of the scenes, lifting her hand to her chest and saying “wow”.
Harry also seemed to need some help… according to lip reader Tina Lannin, he said to his bride: “I’m ready for a drink now.”
Meghan: ‘Do we kiss? Harry: ‘Yeah’
According to lip reader Tina Lannin, when the newly-wed couple stopped mid-way down the West Steps there was a moment of uncertainty over their first kiss as husband and wife.
Meghan discreetly asked Harry: “Do we kiss?”
To which Harry quietly replied: “Yeah”.
Royal couple join their guests for lunchtime reception
Just after 1.30pm, the carriage returned to Windsor Castle, disappearing under an arch within the grounds.
The couple’s guests could also be seen arriving for the lunchtime reception at St George’s Hall hosted by the Queen.
Video: Couple delight crowds in Windsor
We are not expecting to see the bride and groom again until they depart Windsor Castle for the 7pm reception at Frogmore House, hosted by the Prince of Wales.
Meghan’s father: ‘My baby looks beautiful and very happy’
Meghan Markle’s father Thomas, unable to attend the wedding after undergoing emergency heart surgery, was believed to be watching in California, unperturbed by the 4am start, reports Rozina Sabur.
“My baby looks beautiful and she looks very happy,” he said.
The 71-year-old told US site TMZ he was “emotional and joyful” as he watched the ceremony.
“I wish I was there and I wish them all my love and happiness,” he added.
Couple met with wall of cheering and flag-waving
Prince Harry and Ms Markle are being met with a wall of cheering and flag-waving as the procession makes its way through the streets of Windsor.
The pair smiled and waved to well-wishers during the journey in the lunchtime sunshine.
They are heading to St George’s Hall for a lunchtime reception hosted by the Queen.
The Prince and Ms Markle thrilled fans as they left Windsor Castle in a horse-drawn carriage.
Some have been camped out near the castle walls for days, while others arrived as early as 4am to secure a good spot.
They cheered and screamed as the newlyweds passed by. Rachael Carter-Eagleton said: “She looked amazing. She shone like a diamond.”
Video: Young royals wave off royal newlyweds
Carriage procession through Windsor begins
After the newlyweds emerged at the West Steps of the Chapel, the couple were waved off and watched by members of the Royal family as they left in an open-top Ascot Landau for a carriage procession through Windsor.
Next, the congregation will head to St George’s Hall for a lunchtime reception hosted by the Queen.
The first kiss! Cheers as Harry and Meghan greet crowds on chapel steps
The newlyweds emerged from St George’s Chapel to loud cheers from the crowd.
Stopping at the top of the stone steps, the pair shared a kiss to the delight of onlookers.
Newly married couple now set for Windsor procession
Just as Harry and Meghan were officially married, the horse-drawn carriage in which they will depart from St George’s Chapel was brought into Horseshoe Cloister.
During the procession of the bride and groom to the outside world the following music is played:
Symphony no. 1 in B-flat – Allegro William Boyce (1711-1779)
Amen/This little light of mine – Etta James Jester Hairston (1901-2000) and Harry Dixon Loes (1892-1965)
Young cellist from Nottingham plays during signing of the register
The organ is now playing as those who are signing the registers move from the Quire to the North Quire Aisle.
During the signing of the register, the following is played by Sheku Kanneh-Mason, a young cellist, plus the orchestra. He hails from Nottingham and comes from an astonishingly gifted family. He won BBC Young Musician of the Year in 2016.
View of Telegraph’s classical music critic Ivan Hewett:
MARIA THERESIA VON PARADIS: SICILIENNE
Von Paradis was a notable 18th century Viennese pianist and composer. Mozart probably wrote his Piano Concerto no 18 for her. She became blind at an early age but that didn’t stop her musical career. This piece probably isn’t by her – it was probably by the 20 th century violinist Samuel Dushkin.
GABRIEL FAURÉ: APRÈS UN RÊVE
This song has been endlessly re-arranged. It’s the single most popular song by this late 19th – early 20th century composer.
FRANZ SCHUBERT: AVE MARIA
It sounds like a piece of Latin church music, but in fact it’s one a set of songs Schubert composed in 1825, all based on poems in Sir Walter Scott’s epic ‘The Lady of the Lake’. This one is based on a prayer uttered by Ellen in front of the Virgin Mary, asking for forgiveness for her father’s sins.
Hymn: Guide Me Oh Thou Great Redeemer
All stand for the next hymn: Guide me, O thou great Redeemer
View of Telegraph’s classical music critic Ivan Hewett: Notable not only for striking a Welsh note (appropriate for the wedding of the son of the Prince of Wales) but for its family resonances. It was sung at both Kate and William’s wedding and Diana’s funeral and so its inclusion may well be among the ceremony’s most poignant notes.
‘I therefore proclaim that they are husband and wife’
The Archbishop says: “In the presence of God, and before this congregation, Harry and Meghan have given their consent and made their marriage vows to each other. They have declared their marriage by the joining of hands and by the giving and receiving of rings. I therefore proclaim that they are husband and wife.”
The Archbishop joins their right hands together and says: “Those whom God has joined together let no-one put asunder.”
The couple are now officially married!
Giving of the rings: They’re nearly married
The Duke of Cambridge, in his role as best man, stepped forward to hand over the rings.
Prince Harry now places the wedding ring on the fourth finger of Ms Markle’s left hand and, holding it there, says: “I give you this ring as a sign of our marriage. With my body I honour you, all that I am I give to you, and all that I have I share with you, within the love of God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit.”
Ms Markle now does the same before the Archbishop of Canterbury addresses the congregation.
Time for the vows: It’s nearly official
Now the Archbishop of Canterbury, is leading the vows.
As Prince Harry and Ms Markle face each other and join hands, the bridegroom says:
“I Harry, take you, Meghan, to be my wife, to have and to hold from, this day forward; for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, till death us do part; according to God’s holy law. In the presence of God I make this vow.”
Now it’s Ms Markle’s turn. She repeats after Justin Welby:
“I Meghan, take you, Harry, to be my husband, to have and to hold , from this day forward; for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, till death us do part; according to God’s holy law. In the presence of God I make this vow.”
All together now: it’s Ben E King’s Stand By Me
After that effusive sermon, next up Karen Gibson and The Kingdom Choir are singing Stand By Me, Ben E King’s 1960 pop song.
View of Telegraph’s classical music critic Ivan Hewett:
It’s not a sacred piece, but the words have the just the right sentiment. It’s all about standing by your loved one in testing times, and it was inspired by the spiritual “Stand by me Father” – which itself refers to Psalm 46. The Performers are Kingdom Choir – 20 singers based in South-East London directed by Karen Gibson. The website says “They are a unique group of dedicated men and women, who blend Choral discipline with the raw Gospel spiritual sound – drawn from an inner experience.
Address by The Most Reverend Michael Curry
The Most Rev Bishop Michael Curry, the first African-American presiding bishop and primate of the Episcopal Church, gave an address titled the Power of Love at the service in St George’s Chapel.
He opened his speech with the words of Civil Rights leader Martin Luther King Jr, who said: “We must discover the power of love, the redemptive power of love. And when we do that, we will be able to make of this old world a new world. Love is the only way.”
The bishop then added: “There’s power in love. Don’t underestimate it. Don’t even over-sentimentalise. There is power, power in love.”
Bishop Curry told the service: “There’s power in love. Love can help and heal when nothing else can. There’s power in love to lift up and liberate when nothing else will.”
Such power could be seen in the service, he continued, saying: “Two young people fell in love and we all showed up.”
The Episcopal Church is the US offshoot of the Church of England and forms part of the broader Anglican Communion. Meghan was baptised into the Anglican Church, which is headed by Harry’s grandmother.
If Ye Love Me, by Thomas Talli
All remain seated while the choir of St George’s Chapel sing If Ye Love Me, by Thomas Tallis.
View of Telegraph’s classical music critic Ivan Hewett:
Beautifully simple – which it had to be, because Tallis’s ultimate boss – Archbishop Cranmer, one of the architects of the English Reformation – said the old Latin church music had got too complicated and the words could no longer be heard, and composers now had to write simpler, audible pieces in English – without being plain and dull. Tallis pulls it off brilliantly.
Reading by Princess Diana’s sister, Lady Jane Fellowes
Next is a reading from the Song of Solomon read by The Lady Jane Fellowes (Princess Diana’s sister) from the Nave. Here, Tristram Saunders examines the significance of the reading.
The ceremony is being played through loudspeakers hanging on the side of Windsor Castle, so the crowds gathered on the streets outside can hear but not see proceedings.
Couple hold hands as ceremony begins
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are holding hands as the wedding ceremony begins.
At the High Altar, the Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, is now beginning the declarations.
The Archbishop says to the bridegroom: “Harry, will you take Meghan to be your wife? Will you love her, comfort her, honour and protect her, and, forsaking all others, be faithful to her as long as you both shall live?”
There is laughter in the chapel as Prince Harry answers: “I will.”
The Archbishop then asks Ms Markle the same, and she responds: “I will.”
‘You look amazing’: Harry’s whispers to Meghan at the altar
As Ms Markle approached the altar, Prince Harry mouthed the words: “You look amazing.”
She arrived accompanied by two page boys who held up her train as she made her way up the chapel’s steps alone.
She was wearing a simple, long-sleeved white dress, with veil covering her face.
Service begins: Prince Charles walks Meghan down the aisle
As Ms Markle entered the chapel, a fanfare was played. The bride, having been greeted by the Dean of Windsor, then moved in procession through the Nave where she was joined by the Prince of Wales – in place of her father, Thomas Markle, to the High Altar. The bridegroom and his best man await.
And here she is! Meghan arrives at Chapel’s west steps
Here comes the bride! Meghan Markle has arrived at the Chapel’s West Steps by car. She will now walk through the Nave on her own followed by her bridesmaids and pageboys, who include Princess Charlotte and Prince George, before being accompanied by Charles down the aisle of the Quire.
Her dress is by Clare Waight Keller for Givenchy.
As she arrived at Windsor Castle, she was followed by three cars carrying page boys, bridesmaids and their mothers: the Duchess of Cambridge, Jessica Mulroney and Benita Litt.
As Ms Markle arrived at the West Steps, she was accompanied by Brian and John Mulroney, the seven-year-old twin page boys.
The Queen arrives – and she’s in lime-green
The Queen has arrived at St George’s Chapel with the Duke of Edinburgh – and the monarch is wearing a lime-green dress by Stewart Parvin.
Following protocol, the Queen is the last member of the Royal family to arrive for the wedding service.
Those in the Quire stand as Her Majesty is conducted to her place in the Quire. A fanfare sounds and all stand as the choir and clergy move in procession to the Quire.
Prince Charles and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall arrive
Prince Charles, who will walk Ms Markle down the aisle, has arrived with his wife, Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall.
Meanwhile, Prince Harry has taken his place in St George’s Chapel, sitting with his brother the Duke of Cambridge. The pair sat on chairs at the top of the altar.
At one point, Harry turned to talk to guests, and let out a sigh as he waited for his royal bride to arrive.
Fifteen minutes until ceremony starts: The music inside the chapel
With just 15 minutes until the bride arrives, here’s what music is being played inside St George’s Chapel. A folky/antique theme dominates in this sequence of pieces.
EDWARD ELGAR SALUT D’AMOUR
Elgar’s first published piece. Originally written in 1888 as a gift for his future wife Carice. He sold the rights to the publisher for two guineas, which was a really bad move. It became massively popular and could have earned him a fortune.
GUSTAV HOLST: ST PAUL’S SUITE, 4 TH MOVT
Holst taught at St Paul’s School for Girls and composed this in 1912 for the school orchestra. This movement based on 16 th century English ballad
SIR CHARLES HUBERT HASTINGS PARRY movts 2,3,5
Parry, a leading light of the so-called ‘English Renaissance’ who was the first director of the Royal College of Music in 1883. He wrote his Lady Radnor’s suite in 1894 for the all-women orchestra conducted by Helen, Countess of Radnor. It’s a kind of Baroque Suite in Victorian dress.
PETER WARLOCK: CAPRIOL SUITE
Set of dances based on a book of Renaissance dances composed by Peter Warlock (gifted composer who died in 1930 aged 36).
RALPH VAUGHAN WILLIAMS: FANTASIA ON GREENSLEEVES
Vaughan Williams was a collector of folk-song, and wrote many pieces based on the songs he found. This one is especially beloved, it’s always in Classic FM’s Hall of Fame. More famous and well-known than the tune it’s based on.
ELGAR SERENADE FOR STRINGS
Elgar’s first really successful work, completed in 1893. It remained one of his favourite works right to the end of his life. He liked it because it was ‘really stringy’ – weird phrase but a musician knows What he means – it completely suits a string orchestra, you couldn’t arrange it for something else.
ELGAR CHANSON DE MATIN
In his early days, Elgar was always complaining about having no money, and wrote this delicious piece in 1899 as a deliberate money-spinner for his publisher Novello. It worked.
Crowds greet Prince Harry with loud cheers
Harry looked relaxed as he walked down to the chapel with his brother, the Duke of Cambridge, to loud cheers from the waiting crowd.
The pair smiled and waved to well-wishers during the short walk.
Cheers and applause erupted at the West Door as the pair arrived. The bridegroom and his best man were met by the Dean of Windsor.
They stopped for a few moments and had a brief conversation, before walking inside. Harry, looking dapper in his frockcoat uniform of the Blues and Royals, walked up the aisle with his best man and was seen acknowledging a guest in the congregation with a nod.
Prince Harry and William arrive – and they’re both wearing Blues and Royals frockcoat uniform
Prince Harry and his best man the Duke of Cambridge have arrived at St George’s Chapel, in Windsor Castle, for his wedding to Meghan Markle.
Both Harry and the Duke of Cambridge are wearing the frockcoat uniform of the Blues and Royals.
The Queen gave her permission for her grandson to get married in his uniform, Kensington Palace said.
Both uniforms were tailored at Dege & Skinner on Savile Row.
Here comes the bride: Meghan Markle leaves hotel
Meghan Markle has left the Cliveden House Hotel in a vintage Rolls-Royce limousine to travel to Windsor Castle for her wedding to Prince Harry.
Ms Markle sat in the rear of the Phantom IV car with mother, Doria Ragland.
Wearing a white veil and white dress with a boat neck, she waved to onlookers as the car departed at 11.19am.
The Duchess of Cambridge used the same model for her trip to Westminster Abbey for her wedding in 2011.
Members of the Royal family start to arrive
Members of the Royal family have begun to arrive and enter via the Galilee Porch, some on foot and others by car.
They included the Duke and Duchess of Kent; Princess Anne, the Princess Royal and Mike and Zara Tindall.
Sarah Ferguson was also pictured arriving.
The Duke of York and the Earl of Wessex have also taken their seats inside the Quire of St George’s Chapel.
Serena Williams and Meghan’s Suits co-stars
Tennis champion Serena Williams has arrived with her husband Alexis Ohanian, co-founder of Reddit, at St George’s Chapel.
Meanwhile, among those providing the wedding with an injection of Hollywood glamour are the cast of Suits, writes Ed Power.
The stars of the legal drama in which Markle achieved fame as plucky litigator Rachel Zane have been arriving in the UK all week and celebrated a “last supper” in their former colleague’s honour at a restaurant near Windsor Friday night.
Patrick J Adams, who plays Markle’s onscreen love interest (and lately husband) Mike Ross, is attending the knot-tying today, along with co-stars Gabriel Macht, Sarah Rafferty, Rick Hoffman, Abigail Spencer, Gina Torres and Amanda Schull.
Hundreds of ‘golden ticket’ holders gather outside chapel
Throughout the morning, hundreds of members of the public gathered on the grass alongside St George’s Chapel, reports Victoria Ward.
Dressed in their finery, they laid out picnic rugs and folding chairs and settled down to watch the only show in town.
From their ringside seats, the crowds, some 1,200 of whom had been invited in recognition of the work they have done for their communities, watched the steady stream of guests arrive at the chapel.
Penned in behind rope but just a stone’s throw away, they grew increasingly animated as people began to arrive, walking right past them, the length of the chapel from the Round Tower to the Galilee Porch.
Many waved flags and cheered as familiar faces walked by, including Idris Elba and Oprah Winfrey.
“Oh there goes James Blunt, and James Blunt wants everyone to make sure they’ve seen James Blunt,” laughed one, as the singer paused to wave to the spectators.
To the sound of champagne corks popping and cameras clicking, the crowd, basking in the sun, provided a jovial running commentary on the guests’ outfits.
Many stood to watch the steady procession while others simply sat and soaked up the atmosphere, reading newspapers and sipping prosecco.
A few dipped into their “goody bags” – canvas bags inscribed with Harry and Meghan’s initials and packed with branded chocolate, shortbread, a magnet, a bottle of Windsor Castle water and a wedding programme, not to mention a voucher for 20 per cent off in the castle shop.
On occasion, the crowd fell silent as they studiously watched the procession, trying to identify well-known faces and admiring the colourful parade.
“Try and get to know your neighbours really well,” a member of staff yelled at them. “Make friends, sit tight, enjoy yourselves.”
Tom Hardy and Jonny Wilkinson among other VIP guests
Actor Tom Hardy and former rugby union player Jonny Wilkinson are among the other guests to arrive at St George’s Chapel. Others include musician Marcus Mumford, actress Carey Mulligan and singer Joss Stone.
Here come the Middletons! Parents, James and Pippa arrive
The Duchess of Cambridge’s family, including her parents Michael and Carole, brother James and sister Pippa, have arrived at St George’s Chapel for the royal wedding.
Pippa is wearing a Hepburn dress by British brand The Fold – made of pure Italian silk, it is patterned with a delicate floral print inspired by chinoiserie.
Chelsy Davy: Prince Harry’s ex-girlfriend
Prince Harry’s former girlfriend Chelsy Davy has arrived at St George’s Chapel.
Prince Harry’s mentor, former Welsh Guards officer Mark Dyer, has also arrived ready to take his seat.
Oprah Winfrey, Idris Elba and Earl Spencer: Guests start to arrive
Guests including Oprah Winfrey, actor Idris Elba and Earl Spencer, the brother of Diana, Princess of Wales, are among the guests who have arrived at St George’s Chapel.
According to a list of the hats designed by milliner Philip Treacy, Winfrey is wearing a natural sweeping brimmed hat with artisan sculpted flower.
A host of other celebrities are expected to attend the star-studded ceremony. Click here for more today’s guest list.
Theresa May sends her ‘best wishes’ to couple
The official 10 Downing Street Twitter account posted a message to the couple from Theresa May, saying:
Theresa May✔@theresa_may
My very best wishes to Prince Harry and Meghan Markle on their wedding day. To all of those joining the national celebration with street parties and other events, have a wonderful day. #RoyalWedding
After royal wedding… it’s the FA Cup final!
Royal wedding fever is mounting, but it is not the only big event of the day – it is also FA Cup final day.
Prince William, president of the Football Association, is missing the FA Cup final in favour of the wedding celebrations.
Click here to find everything you need to know about the FA Cup finalbetween Manchester United and Chelsea.
Gary Lineker✔@GaryLineker
Not long now until they walk down the aisle. A marriage made in heaven. The world will be watching. Not everyone is invited to the event itself, of course, but you’ll get the next best seats. Join us for the Romance of the FA Cup. Chelsea v Manchester United on @BBCOne at 16.10.
Mood in Windsor grows more festive as chill gives way to sunshine
As the morning chill gave way to sunshine, the mood in the Windsor crowd grew ever more festive, reports Judith Woods.
Free cardboard crowns and commemorative brochures were handed out and a sea of red white and blue stretched the two-and-a-half mile length of the town’s tree-lined Long Walk.
Food stalls delivered breakfast baps to wellwishers on blankets and the pop of every prosecco cork was met with a cheer.
Castle Hill and Windsor High Street are packed with excited well wishers already, many of whom have camped overnight, or arrived at the crack of dawn to get a spot, reports Eleanor Steafel in Windsor.
Jules Arrowsmith, 58, has been in Windsor since 4am. Mrs Arrowsmith, from Cheshire, said this was the first royal wedding she has come out to watch.
“It’s been on my bucket list for ages. I wanted to come and see one while I still can. And I love Meghan and Harry. I can’t wait to see what Meghan is going to wear, but she looks beautiful in everything.”
Daniel Zhang, who is turning 21 today, has travelled all the way from China to be here today.
“I travelled 16,927 kilometres to be here. I got here this morning around 7am. I’m most looking forward to seeing the Queen. She is such an amazing symbol, I can’t wait to see her.”
Laury Lesueurs, 21, from Auvergne, France, said she had always loved the royal family and didn’t want to miss out on the chance to see Meghan and Harry go past in their carriage. “Since I was little I’ve been obsessed with the royal family and England.
“I’m so excited to see Meghan and Harry. I can’t wait to see her dress, it’s going to be amazing.”
John Budge, 67, has been invited to come and watch the wedding from inside the castle for his long service to the RNLI in Orkney.
He said: “I’ve been a volunteer for the RNLI for 50 years so the lord lieutenant asked if I wanted to come to Windsor to watch the wedding. It’s a real honour.”
Mr Budge, who now works as the operations manager at Longhope lifeboat station, brought his daughter Helen with him.
Helen, 30, said: “It’s such a privilege to be here. I’m very proud of my dad, and so excited to watch the wedding. It’s just such a special day.”
Macey Kurtz, 24, has come all the way from Texas where she works as a wedding photographer. She said: “I go to weddings all the time so I had to come to the royal wedding! We got here on Wednesday so we could be here for all the build up.”
Her mother Leslie, 48, said: “We wanted to come and support Meghan and be part of their special day. We’re so excited to see them come past!”
‘Strangers not only made eye contact, they chatted animatedly’: On board the first train to Windsor
There was something distinctly unusual about the 05.18 train from Paddington this morning, reports Judith Woods.
The fancy frocks, the Union flags, and the air of excited merriment set the service to Windsor & Eton Central apart.
Strangers not only made eye contact, they chatted animatedly, someone whistled a wedding march and there was talk of nothing but Harry and Meghan’s nuptials.
“I’ve been up since midnight,” said Laurie Walls, 33, a bookseller and librarian from Indiana, who took two weeks off work to travel to Britain for the wedding.
“I was too hyped up to sleep. I’ve always been fascinated by the royals and ever since I watched William and Harry at Diana’s funeral I’ve followed them avidly from afar.”
Imperial College student Max Botheras, 24, described his trek to Windsor as “participating in history”. Meghan, he felt, was a wonderful addition to the royal family.
“My partner is a black person and it’s really great seeing someone mixed race join the House of Windsor. Fairytales really do come true.”
For Canadian Charmaine Goodman, 51, from Ottowa, resplendent in smart red day dress and extravagant fascinator, there was no question of missing Harry and Meghan’s big day.
“I was here for Wiliam and Catherine’s wedding so I just had to be here for Harry,” the HR manager said. “I went to Windsor yesterday to do a recce and check out the route of the procession. The festivities are less dispersed than London, Windsor has a cosier feel; we met so many people just when we were walking around.”
Her friend, a teacher from Jamaica, declined to speak as she was pulling a sickie. But who could blame her?
“Today will be the most amazing party on the planet,” asserted Fiona Coulter, 40, from Nottinghamshire, a rolled up Union Jack in her hand.
“Harry is marrying an American – if that’s not reason for a global celebration what is?”
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex: Couple’s titles confirmed
Prince Harry has been made the Duke of Sussex on his wedding day by his grandmother the Queen, Buckingham Palace has announced. Meghan Markle will become the Duchess of Sussex on marriage, the palace said.
Harry was also given Scottish and Northern Irish titles, becoming the Earl of Dumbarton and Baron Kilkeel.
Buckingham Palace said: “The Queen has today been pleased to confer a Dukedom on Prince Henry of Wales.
“His titles will be Duke of Sussex, Earl of Dumbarton and Baron Kilkeel. Prince Harry thus becomes His Royal Highness The Duke of Sussex, and Ms Meghan Markle on marriage will become Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Sussex.”
First look at the flowers inside St George’s Chapel
St George’s Chapel has been adorned with floral displays ahead of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle tying the knot.
The first pictures from inside the historic building show foliage, white peonies, white garden roses and other white blooms adorning the front of the organ loft, towering above the seats.
A central arch will serve to frame the royal couple as a congregation of family, friends and well-wishers watch them take their vows.
Two large arrangements also sit either side of the High Altar in the Windsor Castle chapel.
The display, which also features foxgloves with branches of beech, birch and hornbeam, also extends to outside the chapel, lining the West Steps and surrounding the West Door through which Meghan will enter the church.
The display has been carefully crafted by floral designer Philippa Craddock.
Video: St George’s Chapel adorned with flowers
Order of service revealed: British pageantry, soul music and gospel
When Meghan Markle enters St George’s Chapel to begin the last steps in her journey to join the Royal family, the state trumpeters will sound a fanfare that has accompanied its brides for generations, reports The Telegraph’s Royal Correspondent Hannah Furness.
Before long, as she says her vows to Prince Harry, that time-honoured tradition will give way to striking modernity, with the soaring voices of a gospel choir singing music from Ben E King and Etta James.
Saturday’s Royal wedding ceremony, with each detail chosen by the couple, will blend the best-loved elements of British pageantry with a modern outlook that reflects the Prince and Ms Markle, in a service designed to capture the best of each of their heritage.
From the music of Sir Charles Hubert Parry and a reading from the Bible to a procession of a newlyweds accompanied by a rendition of This Little Light of Mine, their choices go to the heart of their relationship: English customs blended with an American influence, offset by an overriding message of joy.
Most of the ceremony will see the Prince and Ms Markle referred to simply as “Harry and Meghan”, eschewing the full repetition of their names: Prince Henry Charles Albert David and Rachel Meghan Markle.
The decision will ensure neither endures the test faced by the Prince’s parents, where the then Lady Diana Spencer muddled her words to get Prince Charles’ middle names the wrong way around.
Hymns will also honour the Prince’s mother, with Guide Me, O Thou Great Redeemer, otherwise known as Bread of Heaven, remembered both for being played at her funeral and as a Welsh rugby anthem sung regularly by Prince Harry.
As the service continues, A gospel choir will perform Ben E King’s Stand By Me, later followed by Etta James’ uplifting version of Amen/This Little Light of Mine – a joyous childhood favourite. Click here to read the full story.
The key timings
Here are the timings of the main events on Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s wedding day:
- 09.00 – Members of the public who have been invited to watch the wedding day from the grounds of Windsor Castle begin to arrive.
- 09.30-11.00 – Wedding guests arrive at the Castle’s famous Round Tower by coach and enter the chapel through the South Door and take their seats.
- 11.20 – Members of the royal family begin to arrive and enter via the Galilee Porch, some on foot and others by car.
- 11.40 – Harry and best man the Duke of Cambridge arrive at the chapel’s west door, received by the Dean of Windsor. They will probably arrive on foot, walking past the thousands of spectators invited into the grounds of the castle. The moment will give Harry the chance to acknowledge the 200 representatives from charities he is associated with gathered in the Horseshoe Cloister at the bottom of the steps.
- 11.42 – Ms Markle’s mother Doria Ragland arrives at the Galilee Porch and is received by the Dean of Windsor.
- 11.45 – The Prince of Wales arrives at the Galilee Porch.
- 11.52 – Following protocol, the Queen will be the last member of the royal family to arrive for the wedding service.
- 11.59 – Ms Markle arrives at the Chapel’s West Steps by car, from her overnight accommodation at the Cliveden House Hotel in Taplow, Berkshire. Ms Markle will walk through the Nave on her own followed by her bridesmaids and pageboys who include Princess Charlotte and Prince George, before being accompanied by Charles down the aisle of the Quire.
- 12.00 – Service begins.
- 13.00 – Service ends and the newlyweds emerge at the West Steps of the Chapel. They will be waved off on their carriage procession through Windsor by members of both families. The congregation will file out of the chapel to see the married couple leave before heading to St George’s Hall for a lunchtime reception hosted by the Queen.
- 13.05 – The carriage procession through the streets of Windsor possibly begins around this time, taking 25 minutes.
- 19.00 – Bride and groom depart Windsor Castle for the evening reception at Frogmore House, hosted by the Prince of Wales.
Today’s the day! World awaits royal wedding
Good morning and welcome to our live coverage of the wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle.
Prince Harry’s wedding day has arrived as he prepares to marry his American bride Meghan Markle in a glittering ceremony, watched around the world by millions.
The Queen’s grandson, who is sixth in line to the throne, will pledge to love, comfort, honour and protect the former actress as they become husband and wife in the historic surrounds of St George’s Chapel in Windsor Castle.
Tens of thousands of royal fans are expected to descend on the Berkshire town to catch a glimpse of the bride and groom, as police effectively create a ring of steel around the castle in a massive security operation.
Weather forecasters are expecting wall-to-wall sunshine, meaning the newlywed couple will be able to ride through Windsor town centre in the open top Ascot landau for their carriage procession.
Some 250 members of the armed forces will take part in the pomp and ceremony of the celebrations, with regiments closely connected to former soldier Prince Harry lining the streets.
Ms Markle will emerge from the hour long televised ceremony, which begins at noon, as an HRH and a member of the British royal family after saying her vows.
Prince Harry is expected to be given a title, most likely a dukedom, by his grandmother the Queen in the morning, meaning Ms Markle would become a duchess on marriage.
A relaxed-looking Prince Harry said he felt “great” as he greeted well-wishers in a surprise walkabout with best man the Duke of Cambridge outside Windsor Castle on Friday evening.
The pair then headed to exclusive Coworth Park country house hotel in Ascot, where the prince was spending his last night as a single man away from his bride as is tradition.
Meanwhile 15 miles away, Ms Markle gave a radiant smile and said she was feeling “wonderful” as she arrived with her mother Doria Ragland at the luxury Cliveden House Hotel in Taplow, Berkshire.
Around 30 members of the royal family including the Queen and the 96-year-old Duke of Edinburgh, who is well enough to attend after undergoing a recent hip operation, will gather in the 600-strong congregation.
The Archbishop of Canterbury, who will marry Prince Harry and Ms Markle, has spoken of the strong bond the couple share.
“There’s profound affection between them which is wonderful and a deep understanding and mutual support,” he said.
“You see in the way they respond to each other, caring for each other, which is something you see in many couples but not always. But it’s very evident and that’s wonderful.”
As the Order of Service was published on the morning of the wedding, it revealed Prince Harry will wear a ring – not a given for royal men – and Ms Markle will not promise to obey her husband in the vows.
The moving, soul classic Stand By Me by Ben E King will be performed by Karen Gibson and The Kingdom Choir, with the gospel singers also delivering Etta James’ uplifting version of Amen/This Little Light of Mine – a favourite in African-American churches.
The presiding bishop of the American Episcopal Church Bishop, Michael Curry will give the address.
Celebrities including Meghan’s former Suits co-stars Patrick J. Adams and Gabriel Macht are expected to be among the guests, along with the couple’s trusted inner circle of friends.
The Prince of Wales will take on the role of the absent father of the bride Thomas Markle, and walk his future daughter-in-law through the Quire up the altar to meet her groom.
There will be sadness amid the joy for Ms Markle with her father missing her big day.
The reclusive former TV lighting director will be thousands of miles away in Mexico after pulling out of attending on medical advice with just two days to go after undergoing heart surgery.
Prince Harry too will be thinking of his late mother Diana, Princess of Wales, who died in car crash when he was 12.
He has invited her three siblings, Earl Spencer, Lady Sarah McCorquodale and Lady Jane Fellowes, as a way of honouring her. Lady Jane is giving a reading.
Ms Markle will leave her country hotel with her mother to be driven to Windsor Castle, giving the first glimpse of the bride in her wedding gown.
She will walk through the Nave of the stunning chapel on her own, followed by a procession of bridesmaids and pageboys, before meeting Charles at the start of the Quire.
Prince William, whose children Prince George and Princess Charlotte will be among the young helpers, will be supporting his younger brother Harry at the altar.
The Duchess of Cambridge will be there, making her first public appearance since giving birth to her third child Prince Louis less than four weeks ago.
Ms Markle, who found fame played Rachel Zane in the US legal drama Suits, is the first mixed race person in modern history to marry a senior British royal.
Prince Harry, 33, and 36-year-old Ms Markle became engaged following a whirlwind 16-month romance after going on a blind date in London.
The prince has told how “all the stars were aligned” when they met.
“It was this beautiful woman just sort of literally tripped and fell into my life, I fell into her life,” he said when their engagement was announced last November.
Ms Markle has been married before. She wed first husband film producer Trevor Engelson in 2011 but the pair divorced less than two years later.
The last time a senior royal wanted to marry an American divorcee, it sparked a constitutional crisis and rocked the British monarchy to the core. King Edward VIII, Prince Harry’s great-great-uncle, abdicated over his love for Mrs Wallis Simpson in 1936.
Live
Royal wedding live: Prince Harry and Meghan Markle marry and delight huge Windsor crowds – latest news
- Royal wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle
- Couple declared man and wife in glorious ceremony
- Newlyweds greeted by 100,000 on tour of Windsor
- Reception: Details on food, dance and bridal speech
- Dress: British Givenchy designer behind gown
- Royal cuties: Princess Charlotte sticks tongue out
- Bishop: US wedding preacher who stole show
- Guests: Worlds collide as LA glitterati meet Windsors
- View from sofa: Gleeful gossip and Partridge moments
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have been proclaimed husband and wife after pledging their love to one another at a fairytale wedding at Windsor Castle.
After a service watched by an estimated global TV audience of 1.9billion, the new Duke and Duchess of Sussex emerged from the historic church set in the grounds of St George’s Chapel, beaming with delight.
At the top of the vast West Steps, where the West Door was decorated with hundreds of cream and white flowers and green foliage, Harry and his bride stopped and kissed to the delight of cheering onlookers.
An estimated more than 100,000 well-wishers lined the streets of Windsor to cheer the newlyweds as they started their married life with a tour in an open-topped Ascot Landau carriage.
The Queen’s grandson and the American former actress, who is now an HRH and a member of the British royal family, said their vows in front of 600 guests including the monarch and more than 30 members of the Royal family.
Ms Markle wore a stunning elegant white gown – with a white veil and boat neck – was created by British designer Clare Waight Keller, the first female Artistic Director at French fashion house Givenchy. Prince Harry and his best man the Duke of Cambridge are both wearing the frockcoat uniform of the Blues and Royals.
As they met at the altar, Prince Harry told his bride “you look amazing”, to which Meghan replied “thank you”. The couple tenderly held hands and exchanged smiles during the wedding ceremony.
Ms Markle’s delicate veil was five metres (16ft) long and made from silk tulle, with a trim of hand-embroidered flowers in silk threads, with two of her page boys carrying the ends as she made her way up the steps.
Her hair was styled in an up do and she wore the glittering Queen Mary’s Diamond Bandeau tiara, loaned to her by the Queen.
The pair set off on an open-top carriage ride through the streets of Windsor where an estimated more than 100,000 well-wishers had descended on the town for the royal nuptials.
As they paused on the steps, a smiling Ms Markle looked up at her new husband and asked: “Do we kiss?” Harry replied with a discreet: “Yeah.”
The new Duke and Duchess travelled in the Ascot Landau waving to the thousands of royal fans lining the streets and up the Long Walk, with Ms Markle exclaiming “wow” at their rapturous welcome.As the horse-drawn carriage returned to Windsor Castle ready for a lunchtime reception in the magnificent St George’s Hall, Prince Harry quipped: “I’m ready for a drink now.”
Ahost of stars were invited to join the happy couple in the chapel including US chat show queen Oprah Winfrey, tennis champion Serena Williams, actor George Clooney and his barrister wife Amal Clooney, Sir Elton John, David and Victoria Beckham and actor Idris Elba.
Prince Harry and Ms Markle gazed into each other’s eyes as they exchanged vows.
The Duke of Cambridge, in his role as best man, stepped forward to deliver the rings, with the couple smiling as they placed the bands on each other’s hands.
Unlike his brother, Prince Harry has chosen to wear a wedding ring
Loud cheers could be heard from outside St George’s Chapel as the Archbishop of Canterbury proclaimed the couple husband and wife.
Prince George and Princess Charlotte did not follow directly behind Harry and Meghan as they made their way back up the aisle, like the other bridesmaids and page boys.
Instead, the youngsters held the hand of their parents the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge as they made their way out of the chapel.
Ms Markle has become the first mixed race person in modern history to marry a British senior royal. She found fame in the US legal drama Suits playing the character Rachel Zane, and a number of her former co-stars, including Patrick J Adams and Gabriel Macht, were there for her big day.
Missing though, was Meghan’s father Thomas Markle, who was thousands of miles away in Mexico after pulling out just days ago due to ill health.
Ms Markle’s mother, Doria Ragland, was there for her daughter and the Prince of Wales was asked by the bride to step in and walk her up the aisle of the Quire to meet Prince Harry.
Prince Harry, 33, and 36-year-old Ms Markle became engaged following a whirlwind 16-month romance after going on a blind date in London.
As the couple join their guests for a reception in Windsor Castle hosted by the Queen, we are not expecting to see the bride and groom again until they depart for an evening reception at around 7pm.
Stay with us for the latest updates.
Jessica Mulroney posts of her royal wedding pride
Jessica Mulroney – one of Meghan Markle’s best friends – has posted of her pride of being involved in the royal wedding.
Ms Mulroney runs a bridal store in Toronto, where Meghan used to film Suits, and is said to have helped the bride choose her wedding gown.
The two became friends and she is married to Benedict Mulroney, the son of former Canadian prime minister Brian Mulroney.
The family were photographed arriving at Heathrow Airport with her family on Tuesday night.
The fraternal twin sons of Jessica and Ben are seven years old – and helped carry Ms Markle’s huge train today.
She posted a picture of them on Instagram with the caption simply reading: “Proud friend. Proud mom.”
Meghan to give speech at evening reception
Meghan Markle will give a speech at the evening reception hosted by the Prince of Wales at Frogmore House in Windsor.
Thomas Markle would have traditionally been the one to address guests at the event, to which 200 selected attendees have been invited.
But after a tumultuous week, it emerged the father-of-the-bride would not be attending Saturday’s service having undergone emergency heart surgery.
Kensington Palace had earlier announced that Ms Markle would speak at the afternoon reception hosted by the Queen, but later issued a correction to state she would be talking at the evening do.
Royal wedding body language expert: Meghan Markle was ‘strength of ceremony’
Meghan “was the strength” of her wedding ceremony to Prince Harry, as her body language showed she was constantly reassuring him, an expert said.
Despite the whole experience being completely new for Meghan she did not display a single sign of anxiety or nervousness – while her new husband, the Duke of Sussex, “was so patently nervous”.
Judi James, a body language expert, said Harry performed about 12 self-touching body checks, like pulling at his gloves and wringing his hands, within a few paces of getting out his car after arriving at St George’s Chapel in Windsor.
However Meghan, the latest member of the royal family, maintained complete calm throughout the ceremony to “help Harry through it”.
Ms James said: “Meghan was amazing. Walking up the aisle by herself, I looked for every smallest sign of suppressed anxiety and nervousness – there was absolutely nothing.
“I think she probably saw it as her role to help Harry through it rather than the other way round. She sat with her hand over his for quite a bit of the service as though she was reassuring him.
“To me, she was the strength when it came to the day and the actual performance.”
Wedding revellers face two-hour waits to board train
Revellers have begun the weary slog back home with current waits of around two hours to board a train back to London from Windsor, reports Joe Shute.
Despite the long queues, the festive atmosphere endures. Leila Souza, 61, and Adela Welch, 63, of Tampa Bay, Florida, are waiting in line still waving their custom-made placard celebrating “our American Princess”.
“We don’t mind waiting,” says Souza who is wearing a pair of sunglasses shaped like champagne flutes. “It has been a wonderful day and we would do it all over again.”
Rail staff are handing out free bottles of water to passengers waiting in the heat.
Prince Harry’s friend: It was a really lovely occasion, a beautiful day
Dean Stott, a friend of Prince Harry who last Saturday completed his cycle ride of the 14,000 mile Pan-American Highway in a record 99 days, was among the guests.
He told The Telegraph’s Patrick Sawer: “It was a really lovely occasion, a beautiful day. It was lovely to be able to make it back in time and it was an honour and a privilege to be there.”
Mr Stott, who attended the wedding with his wife Alana, added: “We wish them all the best. I’m afraid I can’t comment at all on what was in the speeches.”
Several other guests left saying they did not want to divulge the content of the speeches given at the reception.
View from the sofa: Gleeful gossip, Alan Partridge moments and a scene-stealing horse
Were you watching the ceremony on television at home? The Telegraph’s Michael Hogan watched all the main shows so you didn’t have to. Click here to read his review of the coverage.
Elton John performs ‘Circle of Life and Tiny Dancer’ at wedding reception
Sir Elton John performed at the lunchtime reception which followed Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s wedding ceremony, Kensington Palace has said.
The statement said: “Prince Harry asked Sir Elton to perform at the reception which was hosted by Her Majesty The Queen at St George’s Hall, Windsor Castle.
“Sir Elton performed for the newly married couple in recognition of the close connection he has with Prince Harry and his family.”
He previously sang at the funeral service for Harry’s mother, Diana, Princess of Wales.
One guest told The Telegraph the pop icon sang Circle of Life – made famous by the 1994 Disney film The Lion King – and Tiny Dancer.
‘Take your time’, spectators warned in mass Windsor exodus
After the ceremony, the estimated 100,000-strong crowd began to head for the railway station, causing long queues.
Repeated loudspeaker announcements warned well-wishers that the Cambridge Gate and the route to the station was very congested and urged: “Take your time.”
Attendees were asked to take the longer route to the station by walking the length of the Long Walk away from the castle.
Many families opted to enjoy the afternoon on the grass while the crowds departed, while hundreds of litter pickers set to work cleaning up any mess.
An announcement on the Long Walk said the railway station remained very crowded and there was a wait for services. People were asked to consider looking at what else Windsor has to offer.
Video: View from the crowd during carriage tour
Adoring fans pack into Los Angeles bar to watch royal wedding
Adoring fans in Meghan Markle’s hometown of Los Angeles wept tears of joy as they packed into a bar to watch the wedding of the new Duke and Duchess of Sussex.
Scores of well-wishers descended on the British-themed The Cat And Fiddle pub in Hollywood from 2am local time as Prince Harry and Meghan tied the knot in Windsor Castle.
Guests wore fancy dress, while staff served traditional English food and drink with the wedding showing on televisions around the bar.
At the first glimpse of Prince Harry, the crowd erupted into loud cheers and continued to welcome each royal arrival in a similar way.
Many wiped away tears as Meghan emerged from her car and into the sunshine wearing her pure white gown.
The crowd applauded throughout the ceremony – but the biggest cheer of the morning came for the newlyweds’ first kiss outside Windsor Castle.
As the new Duke and Duchess of Sussex left the castle, many in the bar embraced each other while wiping away tears.
Alana Hutchinson, 24, came dressed in her pyjamas and joked: “I loved it – except for the fact that Harry is now off the market, so my dreams are crushed!”
She added: “It was beautiful. The highlight for me was when Charles walked her down the aisle. I cried a little bit, it was really precious because I know that was such a big deal with her family, so to see her mom out there was really amazing.”
Claudia Chick, 22, is originally from London – but now lives in Los Angeles. She said: “The wedding was amazing, I was tearing up. Everyone was dressed beautifully, the ceremony was very passionate and it was different, which is great to see.
“The atmosphere here was great, everyone was glued to the screen, everyone was laughing together, everyone was crying together.”
Hannah Lucchesi, 22, is from Los Angeles. She said: “I loved it, it was amazing, it was beautiful, I loved Meghan’s dress and all of the flowers, it was amazing. The highlight for me was Prince George, just because he is my favourite.
“The bar was so fun, I love that there are so many people, even out in LA, that care about it and everyone seemed to be really enjoying it and there were lots of cheers.”
Video: Meghan’s former school watches wedding
More than 100,000 people lined streets around 30 deep
The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead has said that more than 100,000 people are estimated to have lined the route of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s wedding procession route in Windsor.
Meghan Markle to make speech at wedding reception
Meghan Markle will make a speech at her reception instead of her father who could not attend the wedding, Kensington Palace has confirmed.
The royal bride is one of three people to speak at the lunchtime reception, hosted by the Queen. The others are her new husband, Prince Harry, and the Prince of Wales.
The Duke of Cambridge, Harry’s best man, will act as compere.
The reception will also include the cutting of the wedding cake, which was designed by Claire Ptak and features elderflower syrup made at The Queen’s residence in Sandringham.
Kensington Palace✔@KensingtonRoyal
The wedding cake is to be served at the Reception. It was designed by Claire Ptak and features elderflower syrup made at The Queen’s residence in Sandringham from the estate’s own elderflower trees, as well as a light sponge cake uniquely formulated for the couple. #royalwedding
The food being served this lunchtime
The Queen is now hosting a lunchtime reception at St George’s Hall in Windsor Castle for around 600 guests drawn from the wedding service congregation.
Guests will be served a selection of canapés, including:
- Scottish Langoustines wrapped in Smoked Salmon with Citrus Crème Fraiche
- Grilled English Asparagus wrapped in Cumbrian Ham
- Garden Pea Panna Cotta with Quail Eggs and Lemon Verbena
- Heritage Tomato and Basil Tartare with Balsamic Pearls
- Poached Free Range Chicken bound in a Lightly Spiced Yoghurt with Roasted Apricot
- Croquette of Confit Windsor Lamb, Roasted Vegetables and Shallot Jam
- Warm Asparagus Spears with Mozzarella and Sun-Blush Tomatoes
Guests will also be served a selection of bowl food, including:
- Fricassee of Free Range Chicken with Morel Mushrooms and Young Leeks
- Pea and Mint Risotto with Pea Shoots, Truffle Oil and Parmesan Crisps
- Ten Hour Slow Roasted Windsor Pork Belly with Apple Compote and Crackling
Sweet canapés will also be served, including:
- Champagne and Pistachio Macaroons
- Orange Crème Brûlée Tartlets
- Miniature Rhubarb Crumble Tartlets
Click here for more about what’s happening at the reception.
‘I’m ready for a drink now’: What Harry said to Meghan (according to a lip reader)
As the carriage pulled away from the crowds into the gated grounds of Windsor Castle, Ms Markle seemed to be in awe of the scenes, lifting her hand to her chest and saying “wow”.
Harry also seemed to need some help… according to lip reader Tina Lannin, he said to his bride: “I’m ready for a drink now.”
Meghan: ‘Do we kiss? Harry: ‘Yeah’
According to lip reader Tina Lannin, when the newly-wed couple stopped mid-way down the West Steps there was a moment of uncertainty over their first kiss as husband and wife.
Meghan discreetly asked Harry: “Do we kiss?”
To which Harry quietly replied: “Yeah”.
Royal couple join their guests for lunchtime reception
Just after 1.30pm, the carriage returned to Windsor Castle, disappearing under an arch within the grounds.
The couple’s guests could also be seen arriving for the lunchtime reception at St George’s Hall hosted by the Queen.
Video: Couple delight crowds in Windsor
We are not expecting to see the bride and groom again until they depart Windsor Castle for the 7pm reception at Frogmore House, hosted by the Prince of Wales.
Meghan’s father: ‘My baby looks beautiful and very happy’
Meghan Markle’s father Thomas, unable to attend the wedding after undergoing emergency heart surgery, was believed to be watching in California, unperturbed by the 4am start, reports Rozina Sabur.
“My baby looks beautiful and she looks very happy,” he said.
The 71-year-old told US site TMZ he was “emotional and joyful” as he watched the ceremony.
“I wish I was there and I wish them all my love and happiness,” he added.
Couple met with wall of cheering and flag-waving
Prince Harry and Ms Markle are being met with a wall of cheering and flag-waving as the procession makes its way through the streets of Windsor.
The pair smiled and waved to well-wishers during the journey in the lunchtime sunshine.
They are heading to St George’s Hall for a lunchtime reception hosted by the Queen.
The Prince and Ms Markle thrilled fans as they left Windsor Castle in a horse-drawn carriage.
Some have been camped out near the castle walls for days, while others arrived as early as 4am to secure a good spot.
They cheered and screamed as the newlyweds passed by. Rachael Carter-Eagleton said: “She looked amazing. She shone like a diamond.”
Video: Young royals wave off royal newlyweds
Carriage procession through Windsor begins
After the newlyweds emerged at the West Steps of the Chapel, the couple were waved off and watched by members of the Royal family as they left in an open-top Ascot Landau for a carriage procession through Windsor.
Next, the congregation will head to St George’s Hall for a lunchtime reception hosted by the Queen.
The first kiss! Cheers as Harry and Meghan greet crowds on chapel steps
The newlyweds emerged from St George’s Chapel to loud cheers from the crowd.
Stopping at the top of the stone steps, the pair shared a kiss to the delight of onlookers.
Newly married couple now set for Windsor procession
Just as Harry and Meghan were officially married, the horse-drawn carriage in which they will depart from St George’s Chapel was brought into Horseshoe Cloister.
During the procession of the bride and groom to the outside world the following music is played:
Symphony no. 1 in B-flat – Allegro William Boyce (1711-1779)
Amen/This little light of mine – Etta James Jester Hairston (1901-2000) and Harry Dixon Loes (1892-1965)
Young cellist from Nottingham plays during signing of the register
The organ is now playing as those who are signing the registers move from the Quire to the North Quire Aisle.
During the signing of the register, the following is played by Sheku Kanneh-Mason, a young cellist, plus the orchestra. He hails from Nottingham and comes from an astonishingly gifted family. He won BBC Young Musician of the Year in 2016.
View of Telegraph’s classical music critic Ivan Hewett:
MARIA THERESIA VON PARADIS: SICILIENNE
Von Paradis was a notable 18th century Viennese pianist and composer. Mozart probably wrote his Piano Concerto no 18 for her. She became blind at an early age but that didn’t stop her musical career. This piece probably isn’t by her – it was probably by the 20 th century violinist Samuel Dushkin.
GABRIEL FAURÉ: APRÈS UN RÊVE
This song has been endlessly re-arranged. It’s the single most popular song by this late 19th – early 20th century composer.
FRANZ SCHUBERT: AVE MARIA
It sounds like a piece of Latin church music, but in fact it’s one a set of songs Schubert composed in 1825, all based on poems in Sir Walter Scott’s epic ‘The Lady of the Lake’. This one is based on a prayer uttered by Ellen in front of the Virgin Mary, asking for forgiveness for her father’s sins.
Hymn: Guide Me Oh Thou Great Redeemer
All stand for the next hymn: Guide me, O thou great Redeemer
View of Telegraph’s classical music critic Ivan Hewett: Notable not only for striking a Welsh note (appropriate for the wedding of the son of the Prince of Wales) but for its family resonances. It was sung at both Kate and William’s wedding and Diana’s funeral and so its inclusion may well be among the ceremony’s most poignant notes.
‘I therefore proclaim that they are husband and wife’
The Archbishop says: “In the presence of God, and before this congregation, Harry and Meghan have given their consent and made their marriage vows to each other. They have declared their marriage by the joining of hands and by the giving and receiving of rings. I therefore proclaim that they are husband and wife.”
The Archbishop joins their right hands together and says: “Those whom God has joined together let no-one put asunder.”
The couple are now officially married!
Giving of the rings: They’re nearly married
The Duke of Cambridge, in his role as best man, stepped forward to hand over the rings.
Prince Harry now places the wedding ring on the fourth finger of Ms Markle’s left hand and, holding it there, says: “I give you this ring as a sign of our marriage. With my body I honour you, all that I am I give to you, and all that I have I share with you, within the love of God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit.”
Ms Markle now does the same before the Archbishop of Canterbury addresses the congregation.
Time for the vows: It’s nearly official
Now the Archbishop of Canterbury, is leading the vows.
As Prince Harry and Ms Markle face each other and join hands, the bridegroom says:
“I Harry, take you, Meghan, to be my wife, to have and to hold from, this day forward; for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, till death us do part; according to God’s holy law. In the presence of God I make this vow.”
Now it’s Ms Markle’s turn. She repeats after Justin Welby:
“I Meghan, take you, Harry, to be my husband, to have and to hold , from this day forward; for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, till death us do part; according to God’s holy law. In the presence of God I make this vow.”
All together now: it’s Ben E King’s Stand By Me
After that effusive sermon, next up Karen Gibson and The Kingdom Choir are singing Stand By Me, Ben E King’s 1960 pop song.
View of Telegraph’s classical music critic Ivan Hewett:
It’s not a sacred piece, but the words have the just the right sentiment. It’s all about standing by your loved one in testing times, and it was inspired by the spiritual “Stand by me Father” – which itself refers to Psalm 46. The Performers are Kingdom Choir – 20 singers based in South-East London directed by Karen Gibson. The website says “They are a unique group of dedicated men and women, who blend Choral discipline with the raw Gospel spiritual sound – drawn from an inner experience.
Address by The Most Reverend Michael Curry
The Most Rev Bishop Michael Curry, the first African-American presiding bishop and primate of the Episcopal Church, gave an address titled the Power of Love at the service in St George’s Chapel.
He opened his speech with the words of Civil Rights leader Martin Luther King Jr, who said: “We must discover the power of love, the redemptive power of love. And when we do that, we will be able to make of this old world a new world. Love is the only way.”
The bishop then added: “There’s power in love. Don’t underestimate it. Don’t even over-sentimentalise. There is power, power in love.”
Bishop Curry told the service: “There’s power in love. Love can help and heal when nothing else can. There’s power in love to lift up and liberate when nothing else will.”
Such power could be seen in the service, he continued, saying: “Two young people fell in love and we all showed up.”
The Episcopal Church is the US offshoot of the Church of England and forms part of the broader Anglican Communion. Meghan was baptised into the Anglican Church, which is headed by Harry’s grandmother.
If Ye Love Me, by Thomas Talli
All remain seated while the choir of St George’s Chapel sing If Ye Love Me, by Thomas Tallis.
View of Telegraph’s classical music critic Ivan Hewett:
Beautifully simple – which it had to be, because Tallis’s ultimate boss – Archbishop Cranmer, one of the architects of the English Reformation – said the old Latin church music had got too complicated and the words could no longer be heard, and composers now had to write simpler, audible pieces in English – without being plain and dull. Tallis pulls it off brilliantly.
Reading by Princess Diana’s sister, Lady Jane Fellowes
Next is a reading from the Song of Solomon read by The Lady Jane Fellowes (Princess Diana’s sister) from the Nave. Here, Tristram Saunders examines the significance of the reading.
The ceremony is being played through loudspeakers hanging on the side of Windsor Castle, so the crowds gathered on the streets outside can hear but not see proceedings.
Couple hold hands as ceremony begins
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are holding hands as the wedding ceremony begins.
At the High Altar, the Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, is now beginning the declarations.
The Archbishop says to the bridegroom: “Harry, will you take Meghan to be your wife? Will you love her, comfort her, honour and protect her, and, forsaking all others, be faithful to her as long as you both shall live?”
There is laughter in the chapel as Prince Harry answers: “I will.”
The Archbishop then asks Ms Markle the same, and she responds: “I will.”
‘You look amazing’: Harry’s whispers to Meghan at the altar
As Ms Markle approached the altar, Prince Harry mouthed the words: “You look amazing.”
She arrived accompanied by two page boys who held up her train as she made her way up the chapel’s steps alone.
She was wearing a simple, long-sleeved white dress, with veil covering her face.
Service begins: Prince Charles walks Meghan down the aisle
As Ms Markle entered the chapel, a fanfare was played. The bride, having been greeted by the Dean of Windsor, then moved in procession through the Nave where she was joined by the Prince of Wales – in place of her father, Thomas Markle, to the High Altar. The bridegroom and his best man await.
And here she is! Meghan arrives at Chapel’s west steps
Here comes the bride! Meghan Markle has arrived at the Chapel’s West Steps by car. She will now walk through the Nave on her own followed by her bridesmaids and pageboys, who include Princess Charlotte and Prince George, before being accompanied by Charles down the aisle of the Quire.
Her dress is by Clare Waight Keller for Givenchy.
As she arrived at Windsor Castle, she was followed by three cars carrying page boys, bridesmaids and their mothers: the Duchess of Cambridge, Jessica Mulroney and Benita Litt.
As Ms Markle arrived at the West Steps, she was accompanied by Brian and John Mulroney, the seven-year-old twin page boys.
The Queen arrives – and she’s in lime-green
The Queen has arrived at St George’s Chapel with the Duke of Edinburgh – and the monarch is wearing a lime-green dress by Stewart Parvin.
Following protocol, the Queen is the last member of the Royal family to arrive for the wedding service.
Those in the Quire stand as Her Majesty is conducted to her place in the Quire. A fanfare sounds and all stand as the choir and clergy move in procession to the Quire.
Prince Charles and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall arrive
Prince Charles, who will walk Ms Markle down the aisle, has arrived with his wife, Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall.
Meanwhile, Prince Harry has taken his place in St George’s Chapel, sitting with his brother the Duke of Cambridge. The pair sat on chairs at the top of the altar.
At one point, Harry turned to talk to guests, and let out a sigh as he waited for his royal bride to arrive.
Fifteen minutes until ceremony starts: The music inside the chapel
With just 15 minutes until the bride arrives, here’s what music is being played inside St George’s Chapel. A folky/antique theme dominates in this sequence of pieces.
EDWARD ELGAR SALUT D’AMOUR
Elgar’s first published piece. Originally written in 1888 as a gift for his future wife Carice. He sold the rights to the publisher for two guineas, which was a really bad move. It became massively popular and could have earned him a fortune.
GUSTAV HOLST: ST PAUL’S SUITE, 4 TH MOVT
Holst taught at St Paul’s School for Girls and composed this in 1912 for the school orchestra. This movement based on 16 th century English ballad
SIR CHARLES HUBERT HASTINGS PARRY movts 2,3,5
Parry, a leading light of the so-called ‘English Renaissance’ who was the first director of the Royal College of Music in 1883. He wrote his Lady Radnor’s suite in 1894 for the all-women orchestra conducted by Helen, Countess of Radnor. It’s a kind of Baroque Suite in Victorian dress.
PETER WARLOCK: CAPRIOL SUITE
Set of dances based on a book of Renaissance dances composed by Peter Warlock (gifted composer who died in 1930 aged 36).
RALPH VAUGHAN WILLIAMS: FANTASIA ON GREENSLEEVES
Vaughan Williams was a collector of folk-song, and wrote many pieces based on the songs he found. This one is especially beloved, it’s always in Classic FM’s Hall of Fame. More famous and well-known than the tune it’s based on.
ELGAR SERENADE FOR STRINGS
Elgar’s first really successful work, completed in 1893. It remained one of his favourite works right to the end of his life. He liked it because it was ‘really stringy’ – weird phrase but a musician knows What he means – it completely suits a string orchestra, you couldn’t arrange it for something else.
ELGAR CHANSON DE MATIN
In his early days, Elgar was always complaining about having no money, and wrote this delicious piece in 1899 as a deliberate money-spinner for his publisher Novello. It worked.
Crowds greet Prince Harry with loud cheers
Harry looked relaxed as he walked down to the chapel with his brother, the Duke of Cambridge, to loud cheers from the waiting crowd.
The pair smiled and waved to well-wishers during the short walk.
Cheers and applause erupted at the West Door as the pair arrived. The bridegroom and his best man were met by the Dean of Windsor.
They stopped for a few moments and had a brief conversation, before walking inside. Harry, looking dapper in his frockcoat uniform of the Blues and Royals, walked up the aisle with his best man and was seen acknowledging a guest in the congregation with a nod.
Prince Harry and William arrive – and they’re both wearing Blues and Royals frockcoat uniform
Prince Harry and his best man the Duke of Cambridge have arrived at St George’s Chapel, in Windsor Castle, for his wedding to Meghan Markle.
Both Harry and the Duke of Cambridge are wearing the frockcoat uniform of the Blues and Royals.
The Queen gave her permission for her grandson to get married in his uniform, Kensington Palace said.
Both uniforms were tailored at Dege & Skinner on Savile Row.
Here comes the bride: Meghan Markle leaves hotel
Meghan Markle has left the Cliveden House Hotel in a vintage Rolls-Royce limousine to travel to Windsor Castle for her wedding to Prince Harry.
Ms Markle sat in the rear of the Phantom IV car with mother, Doria Ragland.
Wearing a white veil and white dress with a boat neck, she waved to onlookers as the car departed at 11.19am.
The Duchess of Cambridge used the same model for her trip to Westminster Abbey for her wedding in 2011.
Members of the Royal family start to arrive
Members of the Royal family have begun to arrive and enter via the Galilee Porch, some on foot and others by car.
They included the Duke and Duchess of Kent; Princess Anne, the Princess Royal and Mike and Zara Tindall.
Sarah Ferguson was also pictured arriving.
The Duke of York and the Earl of Wessex have also taken their seats inside the Quire of St George’s Chapel.
Serena Williams and Meghan’s Suits co-stars
Tennis champion Serena Williams has arrived with her husband Alexis Ohanian, co-founder of Reddit, at St George’s Chapel.
Meanwhile, among those providing the wedding with an injection of Hollywood glamour are the cast of Suits, writes Ed Power.
The stars of the legal drama in which Markle achieved fame as plucky litigator Rachel Zane have been arriving in the UK all week and celebrated a “last supper” in their former colleague’s honour at a restaurant near Windsor Friday night.
Patrick J Adams, who plays Markle’s onscreen love interest (and lately husband) Mike Ross, is attending the knot-tying today, along with co-stars Gabriel Macht, Sarah Rafferty, Rick Hoffman, Abigail Spencer, Gina Torres and Amanda Schull.
Hundreds of ‘golden ticket’ holders gather outside chapel
Throughout the morning, hundreds of members of the public gathered on the grass alongside St George’s Chapel, reports Victoria Ward.
Dressed in their finery, they laid out picnic rugs and folding chairs and settled down to watch the only show in town.
From their ringside seats, the crowds, some 1,200 of whom had been invited in recognition of the work they have done for their communities, watched the steady stream of guests arrive at the chapel.
Penned in behind rope but just a stone’s throw away, they grew increasingly animated as people began to arrive, walking right past them, the length of the chapel from the Round Tower to the Galilee Porch.
Many waved flags and cheered as familiar faces walked by, including Idris Elba and Oprah Winfrey.
“Oh there goes James Blunt, and James Blunt wants everyone to make sure they’ve seen James Blunt,” laughed one, as the singer paused to wave to the spectators.
To the sound of champagne corks popping and cameras clicking, the crowd, basking in the sun, provided a jovial running commentary on the guests’ outfits.
Many stood to watch the steady procession while others simply sat and soaked up the atmosphere, reading newspapers and sipping prosecco.
A few dipped into their “goody bags” – canvas bags inscribed with Harry and Meghan’s initials and packed with branded chocolate, shortbread, a magnet, a bottle of Windsor Castle water and a wedding programme, not to mention a voucher for 20 per cent off in the castle shop.
On occasion, the crowd fell silent as they studiously watched the procession, trying to identify well-known faces and admiring the colourful parade.
“Try and get to know your neighbours really well,” a member of staff yelled at them. “Make friends, sit tight, enjoy yourselves.”
Tom Hardy and Jonny Wilkinson among other VIP guests
Actor Tom Hardy and former rugby union player Jonny Wilkinson are among the other guests to arrive at St George’s Chapel. Others include musician Marcus Mumford, actress Carey Mulligan and singer Joss Stone.
Here come the Middletons! Parents, James and Pippa arrive
The Duchess of Cambridge’s family, including her parents Michael and Carole, brother James and sister Pippa, have arrived at St George’s Chapel for the royal wedding.
Pippa is wearing a Hepburn dress by British brand The Fold – made of pure Italian silk, it is patterned with a delicate floral print inspired by chinoiserie.
Chelsy Davy: Prince Harry’s ex-girlfriend
Prince Harry’s former girlfriend Chelsy Davy has arrived at St George’s Chapel.
Prince Harry’s mentor, former Welsh Guards officer Mark Dyer, has also arrived ready to take his seat.
Oprah Winfrey, Idris Elba and Earl Spencer: Guests start to arrive
Guests including Oprah Winfrey, actor Idris Elba and Earl Spencer, the brother of Diana, Princess of Wales, are among the guests who have arrived at St George’s Chapel.
According to a list of the hats designed by milliner Philip Treacy, Winfrey is wearing a natural sweeping brimmed hat with artisan sculpted flower.
A host of other celebrities are expected to attend the star-studded ceremony. Click here for more today’s guest list.
Theresa May sends her ‘best wishes’ to couple
The official 10 Downing Street Twitter account posted a message to the couple from Theresa May, saying:
Theresa May✔@theresa_may
My very best wishes to Prince Harry and Meghan Markle on their wedding day. To all of those joining the national celebration with street parties and other events, have a wonderful day. #RoyalWedding
After royal wedding… it’s the FA Cup final!
Royal wedding fever is mounting, but it is not the only big event of the day – it is also FA Cup final day.
Prince William, president of the Football Association, is missing the FA Cup final in favour of the wedding celebrations.
Click here to find everything you need to know about the FA Cup finalbetween Manchester United and Chelsea.
Gary Lineker✔@GaryLineker
Not long now until they walk down the aisle. A marriage made in heaven. The world will be watching. Not everyone is invited to the event itself, of course, but you’ll get the next best seats. Join us for the Romance of the FA Cup. Chelsea v Manchester United on @BBCOne at 16.10.
Mood in Windsor grows more festive as chill gives way to sunshine
As the morning chill gave way to sunshine, the mood in the Windsor crowd grew ever more festive, reports Judith Woods.
Free cardboard crowns and commemorative brochures were handed out and a sea of red white and blue stretched the two-and-a-half mile length of the town’s tree-lined Long Walk.
Food stalls delivered breakfast baps to wellwishers on blankets and the pop of every prosecco cork was met with a cheer.
Castle Hill and Windsor High Street are packed with excited well wishers already, many of whom have camped overnight, or arrived at the crack of dawn to get a spot, reports Eleanor Steafel in Windsor.
Jules Arrowsmith, 58, has been in Windsor since 4am. Mrs Arrowsmith, from Cheshire, said this was the first royal wedding she has come out to watch.
“It’s been on my bucket list for ages. I wanted to come and see one while I still can. And I love Meghan and Harry. I can’t wait to see what Meghan is going to wear, but she looks beautiful in everything.”
Daniel Zhang, who is turning 21 today, has travelled all the way from China to be here today.
“I travelled 16,927 kilometres to be here. I got here this morning around 7am. I’m most looking forward to seeing the Queen. She is such an amazing symbol, I can’t wait to see her.”
Laury Lesueurs, 21, from Auvergne, France, said she had always loved the royal family and didn’t want to miss out on the chance to see Meghan and Harry go past in their carriage. “Since I was little I’ve been obsessed with the royal family and England.
“I’m so excited to see Meghan and Harry. I can’t wait to see her dress, it’s going to be amazing.”
John Budge, 67, has been invited to come and watch the wedding from inside the castle for his long service to the RNLI in Orkney.
He said: “I’ve been a volunteer for the RNLI for 50 years so the lord lieutenant asked if I wanted to come to Windsor to watch the wedding. It’s a real honour.”
Mr Budge, who now works as the operations manager at Longhope lifeboat station, brought his daughter Helen with him.
Helen, 30, said: “It’s such a privilege to be here. I’m very proud of my dad, and so excited to watch the wedding. It’s just such a special day.”
Macey Kurtz, 24, has come all the way from Texas where she works as a wedding photographer. She said: “I go to weddings all the time so I had to come to the royal wedding! We got here on Wednesday so we could be here for all the build up.”
Her mother Leslie, 48, said: “We wanted to come and support Meghan and be part of their special day. We’re so excited to see them come past!”
‘Strangers not only made eye contact, they chatted animatedly’: On board the first train to Windsor
There was something distinctly unusual about the 05.18 train from Paddington this morning, reports Judith Woods.
The fancy frocks, the Union flags, and the air of excited merriment set the service to Windsor & Eton Central apart.
Strangers not only made eye contact, they chatted animatedly, someone whistled a wedding march and there was talk of nothing but Harry and Meghan’s nuptials.
“I’ve been up since midnight,” said Laurie Walls, 33, a bookseller and librarian from Indiana, who took two weeks off work to travel to Britain for the wedding.
“I was too hyped up to sleep. I’ve always been fascinated by the royals and ever since I watched William and Harry at Diana’s funeral I’ve followed them avidly from afar.”
Imperial College student Max Botheras, 24, described his trek to Windsor as “participating in history”. Meghan, he felt, was a wonderful addition to the royal family.
“My partner is a black person and it’s really great seeing someone mixed race join the House of Windsor. Fairytales really do come true.”
For Canadian Charmaine Goodman, 51, from Ottowa, resplendent in smart red day dress and extravagant fascinator, there was no question of missing Harry and Meghan’s big day.
“I was here for Wiliam and Catherine’s wedding so I just had to be here for Harry,” the HR manager said. “I went to Windsor yesterday to do a recce and check out the route of the procession. The festivities are less dispersed than London, Windsor has a cosier feel; we met so many people just when we were walking around.”
Her friend, a teacher from Jamaica, declined to speak as she was pulling a sickie. But who could blame her?
“Today will be the most amazing party on the planet,” asserted Fiona Coulter, 40, from Nottinghamshire, a rolled up Union Jack in her hand.
“Harry is marrying an American – if that’s not reason for a global celebration what is?”
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex: Couple’s titles confirmed
Prince Harry has been made the Duke of Sussex on his wedding day by his grandmother the Queen, Buckingham Palace has announced. Meghan Markle will become the Duchess of Sussex on marriage, the palace said.
Harry was also given Scottish and Northern Irish titles, becoming the Earl of Dumbarton and Baron Kilkeel.
Buckingham Palace said: “The Queen has today been pleased to confer a Dukedom on Prince Henry of Wales.
“His titles will be Duke of Sussex, Earl of Dumbarton and Baron Kilkeel. Prince Harry thus becomes His Royal Highness The Duke of Sussex, and Ms Meghan Markle on marriage will become Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Sussex.”
First look at the flowers inside St George’s Chapel
St George’s Chapel has been adorned with floral displays ahead of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle tying the knot.
The first pictures from inside the historic building show foliage, white peonies, white garden roses and other white blooms adorning the front of the organ loft, towering above the seats.
A central arch will serve to frame the royal couple as a congregation of family, friends and well-wishers watch them take their vows.
Two large arrangements also sit either side of the High Altar in the Windsor Castle chapel.
The display, which also features foxgloves with branches of beech, birch and hornbeam, also extends to outside the chapel, lining the West Steps and surrounding the West Door through which Meghan will enter the church.
The display has been carefully crafted by floral designer Philippa Craddock.
Video: St George’s Chapel adorned with flowers
Order of service revealed: British pageantry, soul music and gospel
When Meghan Markle enters St George’s Chapel to begin the last steps in her journey to join the Royal family, the state trumpeters will sound a fanfare that has accompanied its brides for generations, reports The Telegraph’s Royal Correspondent Hannah Furness.
Before long, as she says her vows to Prince Harry, that time-honoured tradition will give way to striking modernity, with the soaring voices of a gospel choir singing music from Ben E King and Etta James.
Saturday’s Royal wedding ceremony, with each detail chosen by the couple, will blend the best-loved elements of British pageantry with a modern outlook that reflects the Prince and Ms Markle, in a service designed to capture the best of each of their heritage.
From the music of Sir Charles Hubert Parry and a reading from the Bible to a procession of a newlyweds accompanied by a rendition of This Little Light of Mine, their choices go to the heart of their relationship: English customs blended with an American influence, offset by an overriding message of joy.
Most of the ceremony will see the Prince and Ms Markle referred to simply as “Harry and Meghan”, eschewing the full repetition of their names: Prince Henry Charles Albert David and Rachel Meghan Markle.
The decision will ensure neither endures the test faced by the Prince’s parents, where the then Lady Diana Spencer muddled her words to get Prince Charles’ middle names the wrong way around.
Hymns will also honour the Prince’s mother, with Guide Me, O Thou Great Redeemer, otherwise known as Bread of Heaven, remembered both for being played at her funeral and as a Welsh rugby anthem sung regularly by Prince Harry.
As the service continues, A gospel choir will perform Ben E King’s Stand By Me, later followed by Etta James’ uplifting version of Amen/This Little Light of Mine – a joyous childhood favourite. Click here to read the full story.
The key timings
Here are the timings of the main events on Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s wedding day:
- 09.00 – Members of the public who have been invited to watch the wedding day from the grounds of Windsor Castle begin to arrive.
- 09.30-11.00 – Wedding guests arrive at the Castle’s famous Round Tower by coach and enter the chapel through the South Door and take their seats.
- 11.20 – Members of the royal family begin to arrive and enter via the Galilee Porch, some on foot and others by car.
- 11.40 – Harry and best man the Duke of Cambridge arrive at the chapel’s west door, received by the Dean of Windsor. They will probably arrive on foot, walking past the thousands of spectators invited into the grounds of the castle. The moment will give Harry the chance to acknowledge the 200 representatives from charities he is associated with gathered in the Horseshoe Cloister at the bottom of the steps.
- 11.42 – Ms Markle’s mother Doria Ragland arrives at the Galilee Porch and is received by the Dean of Windsor.
- 11.45 – The Prince of Wales arrives at the Galilee Porch.
- 11.52 – Following protocol, the Queen will be the last member of the royal family to arrive for the wedding service.
- 11.59 – Ms Markle arrives at the Chapel’s West Steps by car, from her overnight accommodation at the Cliveden House Hotel in Taplow, Berkshire. Ms Markle will walk through the Nave on her own followed by her bridesmaids and pageboys who include Princess Charlotte and Prince George, before being accompanied by Charles down the aisle of the Quire.
- 12.00 – Service begins.
- 13.00 – Service ends and the newlyweds emerge at the West Steps of the Chapel. They will be waved off on their carriage procession through Windsor by members of both families. The congregation will file out of the chapel to see the married couple leave before heading to St George’s Hall for a lunchtime reception hosted by the Queen.
- 13.05 – The carriage procession through the streets of Windsor possibly begins around this time, taking 25 minutes.
- 19.00 – Bride and groom depart Windsor Castle for the evening reception at Frogmore House, hosted by the Prince of Wales.
Today’s the day! World awaits royal wedding
Good morning and welcome to our live coverage of the wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle.
Prince Harry’s wedding day has arrived as he prepares to marry his American bride Meghan Markle in a glittering ceremony, watched around the world by millions.
The Queen’s grandson, who is sixth in line to the throne, will pledge to love, comfort, honour and protect the former actress as they become husband and wife in the historic surrounds of St George’s Chapel in Windsor Castle.
Tens of thousands of royal fans are expected to descend on the Berkshire town to catch a glimpse of the bride and groom, as police effectively create a ring of steel around the castle in a massive security operation.
Weather forecasters are expecting wall-to-wall sunshine, meaning the newlywed couple will be able to ride through Windsor town centre in the open top Ascot landau for their carriage procession.
Some 250 members of the armed forces will take part in the pomp and ceremony of the celebrations, with regiments closely connected to former soldier Prince Harry lining the streets.
Ms Markle will emerge from the hour long televised ceremony, which begins at noon, as an HRH and a member of the British royal family after saying her vows.
Prince Harry is expected to be given a title, most likely a dukedom, by his grandmother the Queen in the morning, meaning Ms Markle would become a duchess on marriage.
A relaxed-looking Prince Harry said he felt “great” as he greeted well-wishers in a surprise walkabout with best man the Duke of Cambridge outside Windsor Castle on Friday evening.
The pair then headed to exclusive Coworth Park country house hotel in Ascot, where the prince was spending his last night as a single man away from his bride as is tradition.
Meanwhile 15 miles away, Ms Markle gave a radiant smile and said she was feeling “wonderful” as she arrived with her mother Doria Ragland at the luxury Cliveden House Hotel in Taplow, Berkshire.
Around 30 members of the royal family including the Queen and the 96-year-old Duke of Edinburgh, who is well enough to attend after undergoing a recent hip operation, will gather in the 600-strong congregation.
The Archbishop of Canterbury, who will marry Prince Harry and Ms Markle, has spoken of the strong bond the couple share.
“There’s profound affection between them which is wonderful and a deep understanding and mutual support,” he said.
“You see in the way they respond to each other, caring for each other, which is something you see in many couples but not always. But it’s very evident and that’s wonderful.”
As the Order of Service was published on the morning of the wedding, it revealed Prince Harry will wear a ring – not a given for royal men – and Ms Markle will not promise to obey her husband in the vows.
The moving, soul classic Stand By Me by Ben E King will be performed by Karen Gibson and The Kingdom Choir, with the gospel singers also delivering Etta James’ uplifting version of Amen/This Little Light of Mine – a favourite in African-American churches.
The presiding bishop of the American Episcopal Church Bishop, Michael Curry will give the address.
Celebrities including Meghan’s former Suits co-stars Patrick J. Adams and Gabriel Macht are expected to be among the guests, along with the couple’s trusted inner circle of friends.
The Prince of Wales will take on the role of the absent father of the bride Thomas Markle, and walk his future daughter-in-law through the Quire up the altar to meet her groom.
There will be sadness amid the joy for Ms Markle with her father missing her big day.
The reclusive former TV lighting director will be thousands of miles away in Mexico after pulling out of attending on medical advice with just two days to go after undergoing heart surgery.
Prince Harry too will be thinking of his late mother Diana, Princess of Wales, who died in car crash when he was 12.
He has invited her three siblings, Earl Spencer, Lady Sarah McCorquodale and Lady Jane Fellowes, as a way of honouring her. Lady Jane is giving a reading.
Ms Markle will leave her country hotel with her mother to be driven to Windsor Castle, giving the first glimpse of the bride in her wedding gown.
She will walk through the Nave of the stunning chapel on her own, followed by a procession of bridesmaids and pageboys, before meeting Charles at the start of the Quire.
Prince William, whose children Prince George and Princess Charlotte will be among the young helpers, will be supporting his younger brother Harry at the altar.
The Duchess of Cambridge will be there, making her first public appearance since giving birth to her third child Prince Louis less than four weeks ago.
Ms Markle, who found fame played Rachel Zane in the US legal drama Suits, is the first mixed race person in modern history to marry a senior British royal.
Prince Harry, 33, and 36-year-old Ms Markle became engaged following a whirlwind 16-month romance after going on a blind date in London.
The prince has told how “all the stars were aligned” when they met.
“It was this beautiful woman just sort of literally tripped and fell into my life, I fell into her life,” he said when their engagement was announced last November.
Ms Markle has been married before. She wed first husband film producer Trevor Engelson in 2011 but the pair divorced less than two years later.
The last time a senior royal wanted to marry an American divorcee, it sparked a constitutional crisis and rocked the British monarchy to the core. King Edward VIII, Prince Harry’s great-great-uncle, abdicated over his love for Mrs Wallis Simpson in 1936.
