In 1859 Queen Victoria and Prince Albert visited Aldershot on a number of occasions. This painting probably depicts the review held there on 9 July which was described by The Times newspaper as one of the best reviews held at Aldershot for a long time. The Queen recorded in her Journal that she rode Alma, a favourite mount, who is shown as a liver chestnut. She wore her scarlet military riding jacket with a General's sash and a General's plume in her riding hat. The troops were commanded by Lieutenant-General Knollys, seen on the left of the painting, riding behind the Queen.

General Knollys had been commissioned in the Scots Guards in 1813. He was instructed to introduce Prince Albert, who was given the title of Colonel of the Regiment, to the art of soldiering. Rifle regiments took a prominent part in the event and riflemen can be seen in the valley in the distance. The painting was exhibited at the Royal Academy in 1866.