In this article, you'll learn the following:
The King’s Coronation is the official crowning of King Charles III as Head of the Church of England. He’ll be crowned alongside Camilla, the Queen Consort. This momentous occasion is one for the history books and a worthy cause for celebration!
From concerts and illuminations to action-packed royal races, plenty is happening in London and the South West on the big day. Our travel guide gives you all the best coronation events and details on how to get there. Let’s get into it!
When’s the King's Coronation?
The King’s Coronation is set for Saturday 6 May 2023 at Westminster Abbey in London. A bank holiday will take place on Monday 8 May 2023 to celebrate the event.
Travelling by train over the coronation weekend
The Coronation Weekend will be busy, with congested roads and limited parking, so why not catch the train to London and avoid the hassle of driving? London Waterloo is just a short tube journey away from all the coronation action. Trains will be busy over the coronation weekend and on bank holiday Monday, so plan ahead and allow extra time for your journey. May’s weather can be unpredictable, so check the forecast before you travel and come prepared with drinks, snacks, umbrellas, sunhats and suncream.
Things to do in London for the King's Coronation
There are heaps of coronation events taking place in London across the weekend. Below we’ve detailed some of the top things to do and places to see around the city.
The coronation service and procession
While members of the public aren’t allowed to see the coronation inside the abbey, there’s still an opportunity to see King Charles and the royals in person.
The King’s Procession sees the King and Queen Consort travel from Buckingham Palace to Westminster Abbey before the official crowning. Once the coronation is over, the royals will return to Buckingham Palace in a Coronation Procession. Other royal family members will join them for this special event.
People can line the streets in London’s Heritage Quarter to catch a glimpse of the new King. You can otherwise join the crowds outside Buckingham Palace to see the King, Queen Consort and other royal family members. Have your cameras at the ready, as the royals will appear on the famous Buckingham Palace balcony!
Light projection and illuminations show
One of the highlights of the celebrations will be “Lighting up the Nation''. London’s iconic landmarks and attractions will be lit up with spectacular projections, lasers, and drone displays. This will happen during the coronation concert which is taking place in Windsor Castle on 7 May (see below).
Historic royal attractions
London has many historic royal attractions that are worth a visit during the coronation weekend. Here are some of our top picks:
Kensington Palace – Over 400 years old, this impressive building has been the central residence of many former royals. The palace and gardens are open to visitors on selected dates and times.
Westminster Abbey – While the Abbey isn’t accessible to the public on the day of the King’s Coronation, it’s open to visitors most days of the year. Plan a visit to learn more about the royal family.
Tower of London – The home of the Crown Jewels, this famous central London castle is open daily and offers a complimentary guided tour with your entry ticket.
St Paul's Cathedral – The location of many royal affairs, including weddings and Jubilees. This working cathedral is open for sightseeing from Monday to Saturday.
Things to do in Windsor for the King's Coronation
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The historic market town of Windsor is well worth a visit, with its many royal connections including Windsor Castle and Royal Windsor Racecourse. There are several coronation events and activities taking place here.
Coronation concert
A concert will take place at the spectacular Windsor Castle on the evening of Sunday 7 May. Entertainment will include stunning dance and arts performances, and a world-class orchestra playing classical favourites.
10,000 free tickets were allocated to members of the public through a ballot held by the BBC. If you’re among the lucky people going, you can easily reach Windsor Castle by public transport. Simply catch the train to Windsor & Eton Riverside station and walk for 10 minutes to arrive at the castle.
‘A Coronation: What Could Possibly Go Wrong!’
Starting at The Guildhall, you can join a guided walk called: ‘A Coronation: What Could Possibly Go Wrong!’ With a professional Blue Badge tourist guide, you can explore the royal sights in this ancient town and hear fascinating (and often hilarious) stories of previous monarchs and past coronations.
| Dates |
29 April, 11 am or 30 April, 2pm |
| Cost |
Adults £13.50, children (under 17) £5 |
How to get there: The Guildhall is a short stroll from Windsor & Eton Central and Windsor & Eton Riverside.
Coronation Bank Holiday Race Night – A royal celebration at the races
If you love the races as much as the royals, then the Coronation Bank Holiday Race Night is the perfect activity, and it’s completely free! Taking place on bank holiday Monday (8 May), this evening event promises thrilling races, a vibrant atmosphere and plenty of coronation-themed drinks and snacks. Tickets will go fast, so secure yours before it’s too late.
How to get there: Windsor Promenade is a four-minute walk from Windsor & Eton Central. From there, you can travel to the races in style with the Royal River Package - a boat shuttle taking you directly to the racecourse.
Other things to do in Windsor for the coronation
There's plenty more going on in Windsor that may tickle your fancy. Here are just a few more things you can try:
Coronation events across the South West
Outside of London, you can still find plenty of events celebrating the coronation. Here are some of our top picks:
Make your way to the celebrations with South Western Railway
If you’re travelling to celebrate the coronation, let us get you there! Book your train tickets in advance for the best price. Search our ticket types to find cheap train tickets, and see if you can save with a Railcard or a GroupSave Discount.
