An invitation to a  garden party provides a means for The Queen to recognise and acknowledge contributions to national life throughout the UK.

Invitations are sent out by the Lord Chamberlain’s department six weeks in advance although planning for a garden party begins six months before the event.

A highlight for many visitors to a garden party is the opportunity to wander freely amongst the gardens of Buckingham Palace which are not usually open to the public. The garden team work throughout the year, although in the run-up to the garden party season particular effort is put into showing the garden at its best.