Are you ready to witness the grand coronation ceremony of King Charles III? In May this year, King Charles’ coronation celebrations will span over three days, featuring grand processions, a religious service, and a vibrant concert at Windsor Castle.
The coronation day will be one of the most significant events of the year, and you won’t want to miss out on the opportunity to witness it. The atmosphere in London will be electric, with festivities happening all around the city. That’s why we’ve put together a guide to King Charles’ coronation, from key dates and times to must-visit locations. Find out everything you need to know for a memorable coronation experience.
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The Coronation Ceremony and Procession
King Charles’ coronation will take place on May 6, 2023, at Westminster Abbey, where coronations have been held since 1066. The ceremony will be conducted by the Archbishop of Canterbury, and Charles will be crowned alongside the Queen Consort Camilla.
The coronation ceremony is a formal and religious ceremony, and it has remained the same for over a thousand years. During the ceremony, the monarch will take the coronation oath before he is anointed, blessed, and consecrated by the archbishop.
He will then receive the orb and sceptres before the archbishop places St Edward’s Crown on the King’s head for the crowning ceremony. King Charles will wear the St Edward’s Crown for the ceremony, but he will swap this out for the Imperial State Crown before the end of the ceremony.
After the coronation, a grand procession will take place through London, featuring the newly crowned King Charles the Third and the Queen Consort Camilla. The parade is a once-in-a-lifetime event and allows people to witness the displays and celebrations associated with a royal coronation. The procession will start from Westminster Abbey and will end at Buckingham Palace.
The best places to watch the procession are along the procession route, which includes Parliament Square, Whitehall, Trafalgar Square, and the Mall. Be sure to arrive early to secure a good spot where you can witness all the festivities in person!
Events to Visit in Celebration of King Charles’ Coronation
Now that you know where and when the coronation ceremony will take place, let’s explore the exciting events happening in London to celebrate the occasion!
Don’t miss the chance to witness the buzz and atmosphere around Windsor as the celebrations take place. A Windsor Castle coronation concert is scheduled for Tuesday, 6 June. If you missed out on a ticket, there are still plenty of opportunities to be part of the celebrations in and around the area.
Alternatively, explore the Tower of London, an integral part of British royal history. Take a Yeoman Warder tour to discover 1,000 years of royal history at this palace and prison complex.
If you’re feeling crafty and want to get into the Coronation spirit, don’t miss the opportunity to make your own crown at the Tower of London! This fun activity is open to visitors on Saturday, 6th, Sunday, 7th and Monday, May 8th, 2023. Celebrate the new King and Queen Consort by using all your craft skills to create a regal, colourful accessory inspired by the crown jewels.
Another must-see event is the Crown to Couture exhibition at Kensington Palace, which runs from Wednesday, 5th April, to Sunday, 29th October. This exhibition will showcase a unique collection of modern and historical garments worn by Monarchs, including Charles II, and modern masterpieces like Lady Gaga’s MTV Awards dress.
What to See Before the Coronation
If you plan to arrive in London early, there are many things to see before the coronation celebrations commence.
Why not pay a visit to the magnificent Hampton Court Palace, which was once the home of King Henry VIII and is now a popular tourist attraction? You can explore the palace’s stunning architecture and beautiful gardens and learn about its rich history.
Other things to do around London include visiting the beautiful gardens of London. The city is known for its stunning green spaces, and there’s no better time to visit than spring. Choose from the royal Hyde Park in central London or head north to Hampstead Park for scenic views over the city.
A park worth visiting before the coronation is Kew Gardens, also known as the Royal Botanical Gardens. With its impressive collection of plants and flowers, Kew Gardens is a perfect place to spend a peaceful afternoon. The gardens also have a long history of association with the monarchy, and include Kew Palace where King George III retreated, making it a must-see place in London before the coronation.
If you are willing to travel a bit further, visit Balmoral Castle in Scotland. This is the Scottish residence of the royal family and offers visitors a glimpse into the regal lifestyle. You can explore the castle’s beautiful gardens, see the ballroom, and even take a guided tour of the estate.
There’s no shortage of things to do in London, from exciting events to activities to enjoy during the coronation season in London. Whether you’re interested in art, history, or simply soaking up the festive atmosphere, there’s something for everyone.
FAQs
Will there be a coronation medal?
Every monarch possesses a medal that is awarded to specific individuals, such as members of the royal family, public servants, army personnel, police officers, and mayors. Therefore, it is expected that after King Charles III’s coronation, his own medal will be available.
Where did the Queen’s coronation take place?
Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation took place at Westminster Abbey in London, United Kingdom, on June 2, 1953
What is a coronation?
A coronation is a ceremony or ritual that marks the formal investiture or crowning of a monarch, often accompanied by various customs and traditions that vary depending on the country and culture.
