The King ceremony

The main ceremony for a monarch to become king is the Coronation. This ancient and symbolic event formalizes their accession to the throne, typically occurring several months after the previous monarch's death. It involves a solemn religious service where the monarch takes an oath, is anointed with holy oil, and is crowned with the St Edward's Crown. The ceremony takes place at Westminster Abbey in London and is a significant national event, steeped in tradition and history.

Tickets for seated stands at Trooping the Colour are usually allocated via a public ballot held months in advance, typically announced on the official British Army website. The demand is very high, and entry is not guaranteed. However, a popular way to experience the parade is to stand along The Mall or around St James's Park, which offers excellent vantage points for free. It is advisable to arrive very early to secure a good spot, as crowds gather quickly on the day of the ceremony.

Attending the Ceremony of the Keys at the Tower of London requires pre-booked tickets. This historic closing ceremony takes place nightly and has extremely limited capacity, making tickets highly sought after. They are typically released months in advance and can be booked directly through the Tower of London's official website. Due to demand, it is essential to book as far ahead as possible to secure a spot for this unique and traditional event.

Yes, tickets are required to visit the interior of Buckingham Palace, specifically the State Rooms and the annual Summer Opening. The Palace is typically open to the public during summer months and for selected dates in spring and winter. Tickets provide access to the opulent State Rooms, where the monarch entertains guests, and often include access to the Garden. However, viewing the exterior of the Palace, witnessing the Changing of the Guard ceremony, and exploring St James's Park nearby are free and do not require tickets.

Visiting Buckingham Palace offers a captivating glimpse into royal life and history. Guests can explore the magnificent State Rooms, adorned with priceless works of art, exquisite furniture, and grand chandeliers. You will walk through the Throne Room, the Ballroom, and the Picture Gallery, experiencing the settings used for official ceremonies and receptions. The experience provides an insight into the working Palace and the traditions of the British monarchy, often concluding with a stroll through part of the beautiful Palace Garden.

Trooping the Colour is a spectacular annual parade that celebrates the official birthday of the British monarch. It showcases the precision, discipline, and pageantry of the Household Division, with over 1,400 parading soldiers, 200 horses, and 400 musicians. The ceremony involves the King inspecting his troops, followed by a procession down The Mall to Buckingham Palace, culminating in a Royal Air Force fly-past. It's a rich display of military tradition, national pride, and a key event in the royal calendar.

A visit to Buckingham Palace's State Rooms highlights the opulent settings for royal events. Key areas include the grand Ballroom, where investitures and state banquets are held, and the Throne Room, famous for its archway leading to the thrones used for official photographs. Visitors also explore the Picture Gallery, featuring masterpieces by renowned artists like Rembrandt and Rubens, and marvel at the intricate décor and antique furnishings throughout. The experience provides a unique opportunity to appreciate the palace's architectural grandeur and historical treasures.

The Ceremony of the Keys takes place nightly at the Tower of London, a historic castle located on the north bank of the River Thames in central London. Specifically, the ceremony unfolds around the Tower's main gates and within its inner grounds, involving the Chief Yeoman Warder and the Escort to the Keys. It is one of the oldest surviving military ceremonies in the world, with a tradition spanning over 700 years, and it marks the ceremonial locking up of the Tower for the night.