The Coronation of Charles III is no ordinary event — this will be only the sixth coronation of a British monarch since the 1830s.
Such a rare occasion will see travelers come from far and wide to witness the crowning of a new king. The televised coronation will see a ratings spike, though there’s no comparison to witnessing the regal event in person.
Whether you’re a passionate follower of the Royal Family’s happenings or if you’d like to learn more about the monarchy’s history in the UK, here’s everything you need to know about the Coronation of Charles III.
The Coronation Of Charles III 2023: Need To Know
What is the Coronation of Charles III and Camilla?
A coronation is the act of placing a crown on a monarch’s head. Although Charles III assumed the throne immediately after the death of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, this event serves as a formal acknowledgement of Charles’ role as king and Camilla’s role as Queen Consort.
Where will King Charles III’s coronation take place?
The Coronation of His Majesty King Charles III will take place at Westminster Abbey in London, England, on Saturday, May 6th, 2023.
Who will be present at King Charles III’s coronation?
Because the coronation is a state-sponsored event, the government controls the guest list. Members of the Royal Family, the prime minister, members of the Houses of Parliament, and other heads of state and royals from around the world will be in attendance.
Can I go to the coronation of King Charles III?
Unfortunately, there’s no way for the general public to snag a seat at the coronation. It will be televised around the world, but just because you can’t physically attend the coronation doesn’t mean you should stay home. London will be overflowing with celebration during this long weekend.
Will there be other events to celebrate the coronation over the long weekend?
Yes, onlookers will line the streets of London to watch the King and Queen Consort’s procession from Buckingham Palace to Westminster Abbey. There will also be a Coronation Concert at nearby Windsor Castle on Sunday. The U.K. will even make the Monday following the coronation a bank holiday to prolong the festivities and mark a national day of volunteering.
Planning A Regal Itinerary in London
Even if you’re not coming for the Coronation, there’s still plenty of London majesty to immerse yourself in, all accessible via the London Underground.
- Eye Crown Jewels (Tower Hill): See where the Crown Jewels sit whence not on a monarch’s head at the Tower of London.
- Pay your respects to Diana (Queensway): Though the former Princess was laid to rest in Northampton, Hyde Park features the Diana Memorial Fountains, opened in her honor by Queen Elizabeth II..
- Explore The Guards Museum (St. James’ Park). After seeing the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace, learn about their stoic history in The Guards Museum.
Explore Other UK Castles and Royal Residences
Windsor Castle | Average Train Time London to Windsor: 1h 7m
The oldest and largest occupied castle on the planet needs hardly an introduction. If Windsor Castle wasn’t on your to-do list, this 11th-century estate deserves the quick hour-long train ride. Cop tickets to the Coronation Concert if you’re lucky; if not, ride over jamming to your own regal playlist on your phone.
Highclere Castle | Average Train Time London to Newbury Railway Station: 49m
Downton Abbey fans shouldn’t pass up an opportunity to visit the show’s filming location at the real Highclere Castle. Join a guided tour of the estate or rent a Lodge room so you can spend the night living out your Downton dreams.
Dunfermline Abbey and Palace | Average Train Time London to Dunfermline Town: 5h 5m
A royal mausoleum where many of Scotland’s medieval monarchs were laid to rest, Dunfermline Abbey and Palace was also where Charles I was born — the last monarch born in Scotland. The Palace is just north of Edinburgh, making it an easy add-on to your Scottish itinerary.
Palace of Holyroodhouse | Average Train Time London to Edinburgh: 5h 37m
The King’s official Scottish residence anchors Edinburgh’s Royal Mile. Ages of Scottish royal history fill the site and the Palace of Holyroodhouse is yours to explore with a single admission ticket.
Even royal motorcades can get caught up in London’s car congestion. Take the train throughout the city, over to Windsor, or deep into Scotland for maximum comfort and convenience.
Trainline’s app acts as your own royal consort as you explore London’s regal history. Explore train times, purchase e-tickets or BritRail passes, and see live updates right on your phone.