King Charles III and Queen Camila used a luxurious, very modern carriage in part of the procession that took them on the journey back to Buckingham Palace.
Both have personally decided to make the outward journey in the “Diamond Jubilee” float, made to celebrate the 80th birthday of Elizabeth II in 2006, because it is more modern. It has heating, air conditioning, light and electric windows.
Elizabeth II once recounted how uncomfortable the “Gold State” was for her when it was used for her coronation in 1953.
In the run-up to the coronation, Sally Goodsir (works at the Royal Collection), had highlighted: “The Gold State Coach will be the centerpiece of the procession from Westminster Abbey to Buckingham Palace.”
According to her, the carriage, made in Australia, is five meters long and weighs approximately three tons. It features a chamber in the golden crown on the roof, so the royal couple’s journey can be accurately documented.
