King Charles has officially announced the dates for President Donald Trump’s upcoming state visit to the United Kingdom — and it notably falls during a time when Parliament is not in session.
Royal Invitation and Strategic Timing
The 76-year-old monarch extended a rare state visit invitation to President Trump and First Lady Melania Trump earlier this year, following Trump’s election victory. The invitation, delivered by Prime Minister Keir Starmer during a visit to Washington, was personally hand-signed by the King in a formal document known as the Manu Regia.
Initially, the King had proposed later dates, but Starmer reportedly moved the timeline forward by several months. Buckingham Palace has now confirmed that the visit will take place from September 17 to September 19, 2025.
A Visit Without a Parliamentary Address
Observers quickly pointed out that these dates coincide with Parliament’s traditional recess for party conferences — meaning Trump will not have the opportunity to address the House of Commons, unlike French President Emmanuel Macron, who spoke during his visit last week.
While the palace has not explained the timing, it’s worth noting that several Members of Parliament had voiced strong opposition to Trump addressing Parliament. Just last week, 15 Labour MPs and five others signed a formal motion urging Speaker Lindsay Hoyle to deny Trump that platform.
Warm Welcome Expected Despite Opposition
Despite the controversy surrounding the visit, British ambassador to the United States Peter Mandelson told The Times that Trump will still be met with respect and hospitality.
“He should expect a warm reception because he really does love Britain. He hugely admires it,” Mandelson said. “He trusts Keir Starmer. It’s not about flattery — it’s about respect. And I don’t believe the administration sees a problem with that.”
Windsor Castle to Host the Trumps
Due to ongoing renovations at Buckingham Palace, the Trumps will be officially received at Windsor Castle, similar to how Macron was hosted during his state visit. The palace’s refurbishment is expected to continue through 2027.
In a statement released Sunday evening, Buckingham Palace confirmed the visit:
“The President of the United States of America, President Donald J. Trump, accompanied by the First Lady Mrs. Melania Trump, has accepted an invitation from His Majesty The King to pay a State Visit to the United Kingdom from 17 September to 19 September 2025,” the statement read. “His Majesty The King will host The President and Mrs. Trump at Windsor Castle.”
Trump Accepts with Praise for the UK
Trump accepted the royal invitation during a February meeting with Starmer in the Oval Office. “The answer is yes,” Trump said. “On behalf of our wonderful First Lady, Melania, and myself, the answer is yes, and we look forward to being there and honoring the King and honoring, really, your country.”
He continued, “Your country is a fantastic country, and it’ll be our honor to be there.”
The former president has often spoken warmly about the British royal family, and in March, he shared that he “loves King Charles.”
Looking Ahead to Future Royal Engagements
Following Trump’s inauguration, it was reported that senior members of the royal family were already being considered for an official visit to the United States in 2026 — further suggesting that the monarchy continues to prioritize diplomatic ties with Washington in the years ahead.