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Writer's pictureKaren Hunter

English reading practice - Royal Wedding (C1/C2 Advanced learners)

There are few events that captivate the world's attention as profoundly as a royal wedding. Such was the case on this day 29th July 1981, when the then Prince of Wales, Charles, wedded Lady Diana Spencer in a grand ceremony that would forever be etched in the hearts of millions. This enchanting union of royalty and charm became a symbol of hope and fairy tales.


The love story between Prince Charles and Lady Diana Spencer began years before their wedding day. Introduced to each other through their families' longstanding connections, their romance blossomed over time, ultimately culminating in a proposal of marriage. The heir to the British throne and the gentle nursery school teacher seemed an unlikely pair, but their courtship captured the world's imagination, kindling hopes for a modern-day fairy tale.


The wedding of Prince Charles and Lady Diana Spencer took place at the iconic St. Paul's Cathedral in London. This majestic cathedral, with its awe-inspiring dome and rich history, provided the perfect backdrop for a ceremony steeped in tradition and splendour. Thousands of well-wishers from around the globe lined the streets of London, eagerly awaiting a glimpse of the royal couple and celebrating this joyous occasion.


The wedding of Prince Charles and Lady Diana was not just a national event; it was a global spectacle. Broadcast to an estimated 750 million people across 74 countries, it remains one of the most-watched television events in history. The entire world came together to witness this romantic union, and the sense of unity and excitement was palpable.



As Lady Diana stepped out of her carriage onto the grand aisle of St. Paul's Cathedral, she mesmerised the world with her timeless elegance. The bride donned a breathtaking ivory silk taffeta gown adorned with intricate lace, sequins, and pearls, creating an exquisite vision of grace and beauty. The gown's 25-foot-long train further heightened the fairytale atmosphere of the day.


The wedding ceremony itself was a blend of royal traditions and personal touches. While adhering to centuries-old customs befitting the occasion, Prince Charles and Lady Diana added their unique flair. Diana chose to omit the promise to "obey" in her vows, a groundbreaking decision that subtly signalled a shift towards modernity within the royal institution.


Among the most heartwarming moments of the ceremony was the exchange of glances and affectionate smiles between the couple. These simple gestures of love captured the hearts of the watching public, reinforcing the belief that this was a genuine love story for the ages.


The wedding remains an iconic event that continues to captivate generations. Beyond its immediate spectacle, the union symbolised hope, love, and dreams coming true—a true fairytale for the modern era. Tragically, as the years passed, the couple's marriage faced its challenges, but the memory of that magical day endures as a testament to the power of love and the allure of royalty.


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