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With just over three weeks until the Coronation of King Charles III and Queen Camilla, London is in full celebratory mode with an abundance of royal-themed treats. If you are finding you are spoiled for choice, we have collated a guide of our top picks which are detailed below.
Coronation exhibition at Chapter House (Westminster Abbey), various dates. Please note the site will be closed 25 April – 7 May
Explore the 1,000-year history of coronations at Westminster Abbey through its display of historic illustrations and archive photography and learn about the key elements of the ceremony including oath-taking and anointing, investing and crowning. The exhibition also offers the opportunity to view significant historical artefacts including the Coronation Chair and royal regalia.
Coronation tour of the Royal Opera House, 4 – 6 May
This 60-minute tour will take you to areas of the ROH used exclusively by the Royal Family, including the Royal Box and the Royal Retiring Room. Your guide will give you a history of royal visits to the venue which will be illustrated with archive photos and is sure to include some fascinating anecdotes. You will then get the opportunity to view crowns used in the ROH’s catalogue of productions before being presented with your special edition goodie bag, containing exclusive, collectable gifts.
There will be a Royal Gun Salute (expected to be in Hyde Park) and a Flypast over The Mall following the Coronation ceremony on 6 May.
Further details to be announced.
Mayfair’s Coronation Garden Party, 6 – 7 May
Grosvenor Square will be hosting a magnificent family-friendly garden party on 6 and 7 May to mark the Coronation of King Charles III and Camilla, Queen Consort. The prestigious square will be transformed into an enchanting garden wonderland for the weekend, making it the perfect spot to relax with family and friends. Refreshments will be for sale from a fantastic selection of food and drink stalls, there will be deckchairs aplenty and a huge screen broadcasting the historic ceremony.
The Coronation Prom at the Royal Albert Hall, 6 May
Spend the evening of Coronation day in the wonderful surrounds of the historic Royal Albert Hall, where you will be treated to royal anthems and overtures by Elgar, Holst, Handel and John Williams, performed by All Souls Orchestra.
Hummingbird Bakery Coronation bakes, Buckingham Palace Road, until 8 May
Treat yourself to some Coronation themed cakes from the Hummingbird Bakery, situated just along from Buckingham Palace. This magnificent pâtisserie caters for special diets so nobody need miss out on the delicious goodies!
King Charles III Coronation Walk, various dates
Starting at Green Park (just a short walk from Hertford Street), this tour will encompass Buckingham Palace, Clarence House, St James’ Palace, Horse Guards Parade, Banqueting House, Westminster Hall and Westminster Abbey, where the Coronation ceremony will take place.
Buckingham Palace tours, several dates in spring then open 14 July – 24 September
Take the opportunity to visit the King’s official London residence and working royal palace during this special Coronation year. Peruse the state rooms which have witnessed so many important events in British royal history before enjoying the beautiful gardens.
The Royal Mews, open regularly from the beginning of March until the end of October
See the opulent Gold State Coach and Diamond Jubilee State Coach which will take the very important roles of carrying the King and Queen on the occasion of their Coronation.
Fortnum & Mason Coronation hamper
Where better to purchase your food and drink treats than Fortnum & Mason in nearby Piccadilly, holder of two royal warrants and grocer to the Royal Family? Choose one of their special Coronation hampers and enjoy its delights either in the luxury of your Hertford Street apartment or in one of the local Royal Parks.
Shop window and street decorations
At the time of writing, the team are eagerly watching the streets and shop windows being transformed with an abundance of the most beautiful and inventive Coronation displays. When you are out and about, do take a moment to look around you to enjoy the scenes!
Windsor Castle, open regularly throughout the year
For those of you on a longer stay, you may wish to take a day out of London to visit historic Windsor Castle which was a favourite retreat of Queen Elizabeth II and host to many important royal events. The castle was built in 1070 for William the Conqueror and is the oldest occupied building of its type in the world. Windsor is a charming town and is just an hour and 45 minutes away from Hertford Street.