Trooping the Colour

Trooping the Colour — officially the King's Birthday Parade — is one of London's most spectacular military ceremonies, held on the second Saturday in June on Horse Guards Parade in Whitehall. It marks the monarch's official birthday (regardless of their actual birth date) and has taken place annually since 1748.

What Happens

Around 1,400 soldiers, 200 horses and 400 musicians parade from Buckingham Palace along The Mall to Horse Guards Parade, where the ceremony takes place, before returning along The Mall. The King takes the salute and the Royal Family appear on the Buckingham Palace balcony for a flypast by the RAF at the conclusion.

Watching for Free

The route along The Mall and around St James's Park is free to line and watch from — no ticket needed. The best free viewing positions are along The Mall and on the steps of the Victoria Memorial in front of Buckingham Palace. Arrive at least 90 minutes before the parade passes your chosen spot. The return procession (early afternoon) passes the same route and is usually watched by smaller crowds.

Ticketed Viewing

Stands on Horse Guards Parade (where the main ceremony takes place) are allocated by ballot. Apply in autumn for the following June — details on the Household Division website. These are oversubscribed; the free Mall viewing is the realistic option for most visitors.

Tips

• Arrive on The Mall by 9am for a good position — the parade passes around 10:45am.
• The Victoria Memorial steps give elevated views toward the Palace and along The Mall.
• The Rehearsals (two Saturdays in late May) follow the same route — free to watch, much less crowded.