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The historic coronation of King Charles III will take place on 6th May in Westminster Abbey. Seeing as the last royal coronation in the UK took place back in 1953, for many of us it's the first time we've ever experienced an event like this. We've all got an extra day off work and pubs and bars are permitted to extend their licensing hours for the weekend, and there will be plenty of ways to celebrate both in London and up and down the country. If you're looking for a way to celebrate this occasion and wish the king luck for his reign, these are some of the things you can do in London.
Of course, you can go down to Westminster Abbey in person to see the king and queen consort drive by. The monarch will travel by carriage from Buckingham Palace to Westminster Abbey and huge crowds are expected to line the streets. The abbey also has a number of special events like tours taking place around the time of the coronation to mark the occasion. For several weeks after the coronation, visitors to the abbey will even be allowed to stand in the exact spot where the king is crowned (as long as you take your shoes off).
If you don't want to stand in the street yourself, the ceremony will be televised and numerous community venues are expected to welcome visitors to watch the event. Pop-up screens will also be showing the proceedings at various locations around the city.
One way to celebrate is indulging in the English tradition of afternoon tea. The Montague on the Gardens is serving a special coronation afternoon tea on 6th and 7th May, with treats fit for royalty and a specially-made cocktail for the occasion. There's live music too to add to the celebratory spirit. The Rubens at the Palace, ideally placed overlooking Buckingham Palace, is also doing a special coronation afternoon tea, as are Biscuiteers in West London. At Biscuiteers, afternoon tea includes on-theme iced biscuits, sandwiches, and desserts. Alternatively, you can join one of the venue's coronation-themed icing classes to learn how to expertly ice biscuits yourself.
If you'd rather celebrate the occasion with a few drinks, themed bar Neverland is putting on a special event, the Bottomless Pimms Weekender. Celebrate all things British, including King Charles, with unlimited drinks, delicious food, and lively vibes. This brunch is running every day of the bank holiday weekend. Alternatively head to Claridge's where there are a range of special events and menus, including a special drinks list of botanical mixes that celebrate the king's love of his garden. If you really want to push the boat out, The Ritz is hosting a grand coronation ball on 6th May with a champagne reception, five course meal, and exclusive live performances of swing and big band music.
If all else fails, pubs all over the country are planning to get the bunting out, stay open for those extra hours, and help to bring the community together, so you can always pop down to your local. However you choose to mark the weekend, it's exciting for all of us to be part of this big moment in the country's history.
