Written by Greg Lane
The sovereign’s official birthday is celebrated by the Trooping the Colour, aka the King’s Birthday Parade.
A tradition since 1748, over 1,400 officers and men from the King’s personal guard – as well as over 200 horses and 400 musicians – put on an impressive military parade from Buckingham Palace along The Mall to Horse Guard’s Parade in Whitehall and then back again, alongside members of the Royal Family on horseback and in carriages.
To watch the Trooping of Colour, the public is advised to watch from The Mall or from St. James Park (and to be there by 9am). There is also ticketed seating for £10.00–£30.00, which has to be applied for by ballot (in January or February). There are two rehearsal versions on the 31st May and 7th June which are reviewed by the Colonel of the Regiment and the Major General; tickets are released for sale in March 2025 and available here.
A fly past of RAF jets happens at 1pm, watched from the Buckingham Palace balcony by members of the Royal Family.
Organisers may cancel events, alter schedules, or change admission requirements without notice. Always check official sites before heading to an event.- 0.5 km from Charing Cross Bakerloo LineNorthern Line
- 0.6 km from Piccadilly Circus Piccadilly LineBakerloo Line
- 0.6 km from St. James's Park District LineCircle Line
