With another bank holiday almost upon us, it's nearly time to raise a glass to our new King. And where better to celebrate the Coronation than in London? Grab your flags, adorn your home in bunting and grab your pals for an extra-long celebratory weekend.
When is the Coronation?
The Coronation of His Majesty The King and Her Majesty The Queen Consort will take place on Saturday, 6th May 2023, at Westminster Abbey. Various other events will also be held over the weekend, including a concert, 'The Coronation Big Lunch' and 'The Big Help Out'. Monday, 8th May 2023, will be a national bank holiday to mark the occasion.
Things to do in London for the Coronation
The world is invited to join in the weekend's festivities, and if you live in the capital, there are plenty of things to do in London for the Coronation.
Grab a Spot for the Royal Procession
The King's Procession will take place on the morning of Saturday, 6th May, where His Majesty The King and Her Majesty The Queen Consort will depart Buckingham Palace for Westminster Abbey, where the religious ceremony will be conducted. Pitch up a spot and wave your flags along the route for a glance at Their Majesties as they travel between the two venues. It is expected that revellers will be camping days in advance to catch a glimpse at the action, so make sure you plan well in advance!
Watch the Coronation on the Big Screens
If lining the route isn't for you, several places in London will show the day's events on the big screens. Head to Hyde Park to watch the day unfold on one of four large screens, Green Park and St James's Park will each have one large screen. Again, revellers will arrive in the early hours, so be prepared.
Visit the Coronation Exhibition
Held at Westminster Abbey itself, the Coronation Exhibition is a superb display of the history and photography of previous coronations that have taken place. The exhibition will highlight the key elements of the royal ceremony and is an ideal day out for those interested in learning more about the regalia and ceremonies. Due to the Coronation rehearsals, the exhibition is temporarily shut but will re-open to the public on Monday, 8th May 2023, before it closes at the end of September.
Experience the Coronation Capsule
Taking the Coronation celebrations to new heights, the London Eye has created a bespoke capsule just for the Coronation. Enjoy spectacular views over London as you take a selfie from your throne, where you can also hold a replica of the Crown Jewels. You will also enjoy a glass of champagne as you toast to the new King and Queen. Tickets are £60pp and are very limited, so be quick.
Celebrate at a Street Party
It is anticipated that thousands of people will participate in a street party over the course of the Coronation weekend. Whether with your neighbours or at a larger public street party, street parties are a fantastic way to meet other people and join in the celebrations and spread joy. On Sunday, 7th May, the 'Coronation Big Lunch’ will be held where communities will come together to celebrate with food and fun. Check out this interactive map to see where your nearest 'Big Lunch' will be held.
The Big Help Out
Lend a hand to your local community and get involved with some volunteering from Monday, 8th May, with The Big Help Out. Mark the occasion by donating your time and doing something to help others, whether checking in on someone lonely or helping at your local community centre.
Alternative Things to Do Over the Coronation Weekend
It's good news for those wanting to celebrate the Coronation at their local; pubs across England and Wales have been granted an extra two hours of trading over the bank holiday weekend, so you can continue later into the night on Friday 5th, Saturday 6th and Sunday 7th May if you wish.
For a quintessentially British day out, why not take a tour of the capital on a double-decker bus before stopping for a traditional afternoon tea at one of London's finest venues? Many places offer a Coronation-themed afternoon tea throughout April and May, so you can make it extra special.
The capital is home to many royal attractions, from the Tower of London to Kensington Palace, The Queen’s Gallery to the Household Cavalry Museum. Take advantage of the extra-long weekend and get an insight into royal life at one of London's royal attractions.
Due to be held at Windsor Castle, the Coronation Concert will be one of the weekend's most significant events. With big names such as Lionel Richie and Katy Perry among the confirmed line-up, the concert is set to be a star-studded line-up that will make Sunday 7th, May, a day to remember. Of course, public tickets were balloted, and if you weren't lucky enough to secure one, it will be shown on television for us all to enjoy from the comfort of our own sofas!
Whatever you choose to do to celebrate the Coronation of His Majesty The King and Her Majesty The Queen Consort, have a great weekend.
