Tips for visiting London during the Coronation of King Charles III

Visiting London during the Coronation of King Charles III  

As the world eagerly anticipates the upcoming coronation of King Charles III, there is a growing sense of excitement and curiosity about this historic event. It marks the beginning of a new era, as he takes on the role of head of state and continues the legacy of his predecessors. For centuries, coronations have been steeped in tradition and ceremony, and this latest one promises to be no different. From the regal procession to the crowning of the monarch, there will be no shortage of pomp and circumstance.  

But beyond the spectacle, the coronation of King Charles III is an important moment in the history of the British monarchy. In this blog, we will explore the significance of the coronation, the customs and rituals that will take place, and what we can expect during this momentous occasion that celebrates the rich history and traditions of the British monarchy. 

A brief history on the Coronation 

Who is King Charles III? 

King Charles III is the heir to the British throne and will be crowned as the country’s monarch in 2023. He is the eldest son of Queen Elizabeth II and has been preparing for this role his entire life. His coronation is expected to be a grand affair with a procession through the streets of London, culminating in the ceremony at Westminster Abbey. 

What is a coronation? 

A coronation is a formal ceremony that marks the accession of a new monarch to the throne. It has been a tradition in the UK for over a thousand years and is steeped in history and tradition. The ceremony involves the anointing of the new monarch, the presenting of the royal regalia, and the taking of oaths by the new monarch. 

Why is it significant for Britain? 

The coronation of a new monarch is a significant event for the UK and its people. It symbolizes the continuity of the monarchy and the country’s rich history and traditions. It is a time for the nation to come together and celebrate the start of a new era. The coronation of King Charles III is especially significant as he is the first monarch to be crowned in over a decade, and it will be a momentous occasion for the entire country.  

Special Events and customs

Special events for the public 

As part of the coronation celebrations, there will be a number of special events and activities for the public to enjoy. The main event will be the coronation procession, which will wind its way through the streets of London, starting at Buckingham Palace and ending at Westminster Abbey. There will also be a number of street parties and festivals taking place throughout the country, where people can come together to celebrate the coronation. 

Bank holiday 

The King’s Coronation ceremony takes place on May 6. To mark this historic occasion, the UK government has declared a bank holiday on the Monday after the ceremony, May 8. This means that most businesses and schools will be closed, giving people the opportunity to take part in the celebrations and enjoy the festivities over the extended weekend. 

Special rituals 

The coronation ceremony is steeped in tradition and is full of special rituals and customs. For example, the new monarch will be anointed with coronation oil, a fragrant holy oil recipe used at the Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II, and a formula of which has been used for hundreds of years. The monarch will also be presented with the Crown Jewels, which include the famous St. Edward’s Crown.  

Tips for visiting during the Coronation 

If you’re planning a visit to London during this historic event, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure you make the most of your trip. Here are some tips for visiting London during the coronation: 

• Book accommodation in advance: With so many people visiting London for the coronation, hotels and other accommodations will fill up quickly. Be sure to book your accommodation well in advance to avoid disappointment.
• Plan your itinerary: London is a large city with plenty to see and do, but with crowds expected during the coronation, it’s best to plan your itinerary ahead of time. Consider buying tickets for any events you want to attend in advance.
• Be prepared for crowds: London will be bustling during the coronation, so expect crowds at popular attractions and on public transportation. Be patient and plan accordingly.
• Dress appropriately: If you’re attending any formal events during the coronation, make sure you dress appropriately. Pay attention to dress codes and customs for each event.

Join us for a River Thames Cruise  

Join us for a once-in-a-lifetime experience as we witness the Coronation of King Charles III on the banks of the River Thames. Our expert guides will provide you with all the information you need to fully appreciate this historic event, and our luxurious riverboats will ensure that you have a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Book your tickets now to avoid disappointment!