'The Queen's Swans at Sunset' - Windsor

Windsor swans ****FUN FACTS***** Though the swans gracefully floating along the River Thames through Windsor, England may appear wild and free, they actually fall under the ownership of three distinct, dignified entities. Queen Elizabeth II, inheritor of the ancient title Seigneur of the Swans, can lay claim to any of the unmarked mute swans within the open waters of England and Wales. But on the River Thames, she shares her stock with two medieval livery companies, the Worshipful Company of Vintners and the Worshipful Company of Dyers. All unmarked mute swans on the Thames are owned by the Queen per a tradition that began in the 12th century. While rowing by Windsor Castle, it’s tradition for the Uppers to toast to “Her Majesty the Queen, Seigneur of the Swans.” The Queen isn’t usually home to appreciate the gesture—she’s only attended one Swan Upping throughout her entire reign. Swans at Sunset in Windsor on The River Thames. Colour Image Location, Windsor in the Royal County of Berkshire, England

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