With the news of a new monarch, the all-important coronation event is upon us, marking the new reign of Charles III.
To celebrate this grand event, we’ve rounded up all of the important information for a guide on King Charles’ coronation!
About King Charles III
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Previously named the Prince of Wales, Charles III is the son of the recent monarch Elizabeth II. Charles is the oldest royal in British history to become king, aged 73 at the start of his reign. Having been the next heir to the throne since he was just 3 years old, Charles was officially pronounced as King at the First Proclamation just two days after his mother’s passing. This is the official announcement made once the originally reigning monarch has passed, taking place at St James’ Palace on the 10th of September. Charles is married to Camilla, who will be his Queen consort once he is crowned.
What is a Royal Coronation?
To become the officially crowned king, there is a formal process involving lots of high-profile individuals declaring their oath of allegiance. After a formal period of mourning for the former monarch, an official coronation will take place to crown the reigning monarch and their royal consort. This event is regarded as a substantial moment in history, with the event being aired all across the world.
The coronation day itself involves lots of different activities, such as the archbishop reading their oath, the monarch swearing to govern with law and justice, and maintaining Christianity within the nation. The monarch will then be seated in Edward’s Chair and will hold the sovereign’s sceptre, rod, and orb representing control of the nation and the Christian world. The monarch will then be anointed, blessed and consecrated by the Archbishop, who will then place the crown on their head.
On this historical day, King Charles III will be officially crowned, and Camilla crowned the Queen consort.
When and where is the ceremony being held?
Coronations have taken place at Westminster Abbey for over 900 years, and are an occasion for pageantry and celebration. The service is traditionally conducted by the Archbishop of Canterbury, who will take ownership of the anointing, blessing and consecration of King Charles. The coronation is said to reflect the monarch’s role today, looking towards the future whilst being rooted in longstanding traditions and pageantry.
Buckingham Palace has announced that the Coronation of His Majesty the King will take place on the 6th of May 2023 on Saturday. This will be the first coronation held on a Saturday since Edward VII’s coronation in 1902.
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Where can I watch the ceremony?
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The coronation itself will not be open to the public, instead housing a small number of people with political importance and nobility. Following the end of the ceremony, a procession will take place through the busy streets of London to celebrate the occasion.
You can also sit back and watch the coronation from the comfort of your own home, as it is expected that all major broadcasting TV channels will show the ceremony. Plenty of local pubs will be airing the show also.
Elizabeth II’s coronation was a turning point in televised events, with over 20 million people in the UK watching the event.
Will there be a bank holiday?
As the event is being held during the weekend, the substitute bank holiday will fall on the 8th of May 2023, two days after the ceremony.
Things to see before the Coronation
The King’s Coronation is a wonderful reason to have a royally good trip! Why not visit a few of these destinations which the royals love so dearly.
Balmoral Castle and Estate, Aberdeenshire
The Royal Family have owned the Balmoral Castle and estate since 1852 when it was purchased for Queen Victoria by Prince Albert. This location was also the castle where Queen Elizabeth II passed at age 96, leading her heir King Charles to the throne. Located in the Cairngorms National Park, this destination is perfect to visit if you’re staying nearby in Aberdeen.
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Buckingham Palace, London
Arguably the most famous royal residence in the world, this estate is visited by millions from all over the world. If you want to venture inside there are 3 areas open to the public this summer. The State Rooms – where Monarchs welcome guests, The Royal Mews – where the Royal family’s vehicles live and the Queen’s Gallery, which hosts a number of exhibitions from the Royal Collection.
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Windsor Castle, Windsor
Originally built by William the Conqueror in the 11th century, this estate has been used by monarchs for over 900 years. It was known as the preferred weekend home of the late Elizabeth II and plays host to political leaders and foreign diplomats over Easter. Don’t miss the Crowns and Coronation event on the 27th May which is perfect for families and young ones.
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