Classic Cars Take Centre Stage at Royal Wedding

As the nation tuned in to watch last weekend’s royal wedding, classic car enthusiasts might have found their attention wandering…

The sun shone brilliantly from clear blue skies last Saturday, when Prince Harry married Meghan Markle at a glittering ceremony in St George’s Chapel, Windsor. But it wasn’t just the bride and groom and their celebrity guests who were in the public eye. A stunning array of classic cars ferried the royal VIPs past the crowds of onlookers lining Windsor’s iconic Long Walk, delighting vintage car enthusiasts. Here’s a rundown of the four-wheeled stars of the day.

Rolls-Royce Phantom IV

Pride of place at the wedding procession went to the Queen’s very first Rolls-Royce – a vintage Phantom IV delivered back in 1950, when Her Majesty was still Princess Elizabeth. Only 16 of these grand vehicles were ever built.

On Saturday the Phantom IV carried two very special passengers – Meghan Markle and her mother Doria Ragland. And seven years ago it was also used at the wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton in 2011.

Daimler DS 420

The Duchess of Cambridge, friends of Meghan Markle, six bridesmaids and four pageboys were all driven to the door of St George’s Chapel in three beautiful vintage Daimler DS 420s.

These elegant ‘semi-state limousines’ have been in service since 1992, and are generally used to convey ambassadors and members of the royal family.

Jaguar E-Type Concept Zero

The cheekiest car in the royal wedding line-up came at the very end and was driven by the happy couple themselves. Harry and Meghan – now the Duke and Duchess of Sussex – chose a silver blue Jaguar E-Type Concept Zero for the short drive to their evening reception at Frogmore House.

The sleek car, originally built in 1968 but now converted to electric power, carries the bespoke number plate E190518 – the date of the royal wedding.

Tim Hannig, Director of Jaguar Land Rover Classic, said: “Concept Zero combines the renowned E-type dynamic experience with enhanced performance through electrification. This unique combination creates a breathtaking driving sensation.”

A fitting end to a magical day in Windsor.

Did you know that at Footman James we can provide cover if you wish to hire our your vehicle for weddings? Take a look at our Specialist Car Insurance page for more details.