Tucked away in St James Park stands the beautiful St. Ermins Hotel which looks like it is fit for a royal affair. And a royal affair I was indeed attending for the launch of The Crown DVD release! I entered to hear a live orchestra playing above a long banquet table with the most beautiful displays of fruits and flowers, all set in a large ballroom with crystal chandeliers.
I then checked out the menu- we were to eat a six course meal similar to one that would have been eaten at the Royal Coronation in 1953 (don't mind if I do!) It started with some champagne and small appetisers followed by a talk with Robert Lacey who was a historical consultant on the series. He has also recently released a book which follows the journey of Britains longest-reigning monarch and looks back at the Queen’s reign, explaining how, after the sudden death of her father, she had to learn her duties very quickly. He also spoke of the series The Crown (of which is my go-to series when I'm feeling lazy to watch in bed!)
Produced by Left Bank Pictures and created by Peter Morgan, the series has won several BAFTAS whilst screen queen Claire Foy plays her Majesty impeccably well. Our courses then began arriving. Mouth-watering combinations of scallops, truffle, lobster, lamb, vegetables- in beautifully presented plates of sauces all accompanied with a specific wine for each course. I was trying to be tame with the wine as there were six courses and didn’t want to be too tipsy (but it went so well with the meals!)
At the end we were given our very own copy of The Crown DVD which includes a full gallery of unit photography. It is also available as a Platinum Edition Boxset and includes an article from The Times from the day of the Queen’s Coronation, on the 2nd June 1953. I left clutching my goodie bag, ready to watch all over again in my favourite place in the world- my bed!
The Crown DVD is now available to buy from October 16th