Melburnians welcomed Queen Elizabeth II and the Duke of Edinburgh as they visited the Victorian capital today.

Well wishers lined the barricades in Federation Square as Her Majesty and the Duke strolled down the red carpet shortly after midday after a visit to the Ian Potter Gallery. Children handed the Queen handmade bouqets and drawings that the gracious Queen accepted.

After her visit to Federation Square, they both caught the Royal Tram for a ride down St Kilda Road.

Earlier that day, the Queen was greeted by more well wishers in Parkville where she opened the Royal Children’s Hopsital. Victorian Premier Ted Baillieu said welcoming The Queen to open the new $1 billion hospital was a wonderful honour and a privilege for all Victorians.

“The opening of this hospital by The Queen was a very proud moment for the Royal Children’s Hospital, the City of Melbourne and all Victorians,” Mr Baillieu said.

“This is one of the most significant days in the 140-year history of this great facility and reflects the high regard in which the hospital is held.”