The King headed to Colchester Castle, in High Street, as part of a special trip to celebrate the Roman settlement’s newfound city status.

The monarch was greeted by a Guard of Honour and the city’s British Army Band as thousands of flag-wavering crowds cheered and the National Anthem played.

Before venturing inside the heritage-draped venue, the 74-year-old royal, alongside wife Camilla, spent time outside the castle, ignoring chants from protestors.

King Charles and Queen Consort Camilla, with Colchester mayor Tim Young (Image: Newsquest)

While outside, Their Majesties met with charity representatives, volunteers and refugees settled in Colchester who all starred in last year’s city status procession.

School children visiting the Castle Museum for educational purposes also interacted with the royals in what was a heart-warming moment they will likely never forget.

Having wrapped up the external items of the strict itinerary The King and The Queen Consort then headed inside what is the largest Norman Keep in Europe.

The King and Queen Consort cross the small bridge from the castle (Image: Newsquest)

On their way into the 947-year-old castle they greeted MPs such as Will Quince, Priti Patel and Sir Bernard Jenkin.

The couple spoke then with soldiers from Colchester Garrison and were shown an artefact handling trolley by students from Market Field College.

Impressed by the structure, constructed in 1076 on the Temple of Claudius, Their Majesties then spent time learning about an Ancient Roman Colchester vase.

They then took part in a reception to celebrate Colchester's city status, which featured dignitaries such as Colchester High Steward Sir Bob Russell.

The royals speak with refugees outside Colchester Castle (Image: Newsquest)

Representatives from a host of celebrated organisations spoke with the royals, engaging in conversations about the work they do and the impact it has.

Teams from the Essex Native Oyster Restoration Initiative, Firstsite and domestic abuse charity Next Chapter were all present before mayor Tim Young made a speech.

Directly addressing the royals in the room he married the mayoress just ten days ago, he said: “We are very grateful this honour has been bestowed on us.

“Colchester’s residents and everyone associated with our city are delighted you have made this visit and words cannot describe how much it means to us you are here.

“On behalf of Colchester Council and its residents thank you for honouring us with your visit and we hope you will remember it fondly.

“We will certainly never forget this memorable and historic occasion.”

King Charles greets the crowds outside Colchester Castle (Image: Newsquest)

After signing the castle’s visitors book the Charles and Camila then met members of Colchester Zoo’s Animal Care Team who spoke about their vital conservation work.

But Charles and Camilla’s most important responsibility came just prior to departing when they were entrusted with revealing the name of the zoo’s new rhino.

With their royal duties at the castle successfully complete, The King and The Queen Consort were then driven away and onto their next destination: Colchester Library.

King Charles and Queen Consort Camilla with representatives from Colchester Zoo (Image: Steve Brading)

David King, leader of Colchester Council said: “It has been a great experience for so many here today.

“I had a warm conversation with the King and it was clear the King and the Queen Consort had the same types of conversations with others.

“It was just really great to see them here and in Colchester and great to see them be able to see the quality of this place.

“We know for many people a royal visit is a real spirit-raiser and a great day for us all.”