The Coronation is centred around a solemn religious ceremony and has remained largely unchanged for over a thousand years. For the last 900 years, the ceremony has taken place at Westminster Abbey, London and is conducted by the Archbishop of Canterbury.
About the Coronation
What does the Coronation involve?
The Coronation of a new Sovereign takes place in the months after their accession, following a period of mourning.
In a similar but simpler ceremony, the Queen Consort will also be crowned alongside His Majesty The King as part of the service on Saturday 6 May 2023 at Westminster Abbey.
We have released a free short film for primary-aged children explaining the history and importance of the Coronation, the role of The King, and the significance of the Monarchy around the world.
The Coronation in 2023
The Coronation of His Majesty The King and Her Majesty The Queen Consort is a time for celebration across the nation and Commonwealth, over a weekend of special events:
- Saturday 6 May: the Coronation Ceremony will take place at Westminster Abbey, London.
- 6-8 May: Coronation Big Lunches will be held up and down the country and across the Commonwealth.
- Sunday 7 May: a spectacular Coronation Concert will be performed at Windsor Castle, with iconic locations across the UK lit up using projections, lasers, drone displays and illuminations.
- Monday 8 May: a special Bank Holiday in honour of the Coronation, giving everyone the opportunity to join in and celebrate a national day of volunteering through Big Help Out activities.
Read the guidance on how to watch the Coronation of Their Majesties King Charles III and Queen Camilla.