With the Kings Coronation only just over a month away. Find out how to celebrate in and round Paddington.
What is a Coronation?
A coronation is both the symbolic religious ceremony during which a sovereign is crowned and the physical act of placing a crown on a monarch’s head. It formalises the monarch’s role as the head of the Church of England and marks the transfer of their title and powers.
Officially, it is not actually necessary for the monarch to be crowned to become King. Edward VIII reigned without a coronation – and Charles automatically became King the moment Queen Elizabeth II died.
When and where will the Coronation take place?
The actual coronation ceremony will take place on the morning of Saturday May 6 at Westminster Abbey. It will be conducted by the Archbishop of Canterbury. King Charles III will be the fortieth sovereign since 1066. The Queen Consort will also be crowned alongside her husband.
Monday 8 May is a extra bank holiday to celebrate the coronation, creating a celebratory 3 day weekend. The extra holiday is in addition to the bank holiday already scheduled for Monday, 1 May.
What’s happening in London over the bank holiday weekend?
- Buckingham Palace has announced various events for the weekend, including a concert and laser light show at Windsor Castle on Sunday 7 May.
-
Pubs, clubs and bars across England and Wales will be able to stay open for an extra two hours on Friday and Saturday of the coronation weekend.
-
People are also being invited to hold street parties, and to take part in volunteering projects in their local community, as part of the Big Help Out initiative.
What’s happening in Paddington?
- Paddington Pubs will be allowed to open for 2 hours extra on Friday 5th and Saturday 6th. There are plenty in Paddington who will all be offering their unique ways to celebrate the momentous occasion.
- The Pride of Paddington, The Heron, the Green King pubs will be showing the Coronation live on tv and afternoon tea and a selection of traditional British ales will be available as well as their delicious traditional roasts through Sunday 7th and Monday 8th of May.
- The Merchant Square Kings Coronation Garden Party is on Thursday 4th May. Expect hilarious entertainment, outdoor games, bubbly drinks and more, with an abundance of Union Jack bunting to mark the occasion in true British style. Find out more here.
- There will be an outdoor screening at Paddington Recreation Grounds of the service and procession and children’s activities, including arts and crafts, and face painting. Register your interest here.
- Connaught Village are having a street party all the independent shops will have ‘Crown and Glory’ themed window displays. On Saturday 6th there will be lots of activities. Keep and eye on their website or email here to book: connaughtvillage@fourcommunications.com
- If you are planning a street party Ryman’s on Pread Street has everything you need to get in the mood from Union jack flags, plates and cups to limited edition mugs and bags.
- Keep an eye on this page as we will be updating it as new events are promoted.
What’s the best way to travel over the weekend?
It’s going to be a busy weekend, we suggest taking the stress out of it all and booking a hotel in Paddington. You’ll be a scenic walk or a short tube journey to all the action and won’t need to worry about catching the train home after all the fun you’ve had. Check out some of our recommended hotel choices here.
For the latest travel updates click here.
What is the Big Help Out?
It’s happening on Monday 8th May. Check out the website and video and download the app to get involved with local volunteering opportunities. From helping out at local charity shops to retail volunteer tasters days or just visiting an elderly person in need of some company. Get in the spirit of things and download the app now.
