The Master of the Household's Department

The Master of the Household's Department

The Master of the Household’s Department is the largest in the Royal Household, with over 250 employees.

The Department is responsible for all hospitality, catering and housekeeping arrangements for official and private entertaining at all the Royal residences.

Whether it is a lunch for two or a banquet for 800, the Master of the Household’s Department organises everything, from the guest lists and seating plans to the preparation and service of the meal on the day.

The Department is made up of a range of sections which cover a number of skills and professions.

General Branch (G Branch) is responsible for the organisation, running and staffing of the ceremonial events and entertainment at all residences in the UK and on special occasions abroad.

G Branch employees are responsible for a wide range of duties, including: greeting and looking after guests and members of the Royal Family, serving at functions, travel and luggage arrangements for The Queen’s journeys, valeting, the arrangement of flowers, managing the wine cellars and managing the porcelain, glass and plate pantries, all of which contain items of historical importance.

Food Branch (F Branch) is responsible for the preparation, cooking and presentation of food, for the Royal Family and employees, at all Royal residences.

View a short film about Lindsay Steele, a footman who has become the first person in the country to pass (with distinction) a diploma in Butlering:

Housekeeping Branch (H Branch) maintains the cleanliness, presentation and general upkeep of all accommodation at the Royal residences. Female Housekeeping Assistants also, on occasion, personally look after female guests.

Craft Branch (C Branch) are mainly based at Windsor and provide making, maintenance, restoration and conservation services to those responsible for furniture and interior furnishings across the Royal Households. The team include highly skilled craftspeople such as: upholsterers, French polishers, gilders and furniture restorers.

The Central Office is responsible for the overall co-ordination, management and administration of the official events in The Queen’s Programme, including arranging the guest lists and seating plans.

The Master of the Household's Department is also responsible for the administration of Windsor Castle and The Palace of Holyroodhouse which is carried out by a Superintendent based at each of the residences.

The Master of the Household's Department