About this Event
Trooping the Colour, officially known as The King’s Birthday Parade, is one of London’s most spectacular royal ceremonies and a centrepiece of the British summer season. Performed by His Majesty’s personal troops, the Household Division, on Horse Guards Parade, it celebrates the Sovereign’s official birthday with centuries of military tradition, precision drill, music, and pageantry. The 2027 edition will once again bring the Royal Family, massed bands, Foot Guards, and the Household Cavalry together in central London, ending with the famous balcony appearance at Buckingham Palace.
Date & Time
Taking place in June 2027 (Dates TBD). Exact date and timings will be confirmed by the organisers closer to the event.
Explore Local Experiences
Venue & Location
The parade takes place on Horse Guards Parade, Whitehall, London SW1A 2AX, United Kingdom, with the procession travelling along The Mall to and from Buckingham Palace, London SW1A 1AA. The ceremonial route runs through the heart of Westminster, within easy walking distance of St James’s Park, Trafalgar Square, and Westminster stations.
Staying overnight?
Check the nearest hotel near the venue.
What to expect
- Visitors can watch a grand military parade with more than 1,000 officers and soldiers from the Household Division.
- The parade also includes the Household Cavalry and around 200 horses. More than 200 musicians from six military bands will march and play music together.
- Visitors can watch the parade along The Mall, while ticket holders can enjoy the main ceremony from seats around Horse Guards Parade.
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers to help you plan your visit.
When is Trooping the Colour 2027?
Trooping the Colour 2027 is scheduled for June 2027, with the exact date still to be confirmed. The ceremony traditionally takes place in June to celebrate the Sovereign’s official birthday, and the confirmed date will be announced by the Household Division and official royal channels.
Where is Trooping the Colour held and where is the best place to watch?
The main ceremony is held on Horse Guards Parade in Whitehall, London, with the parade travelling along The Mall to Buckingham Palace. Ticketed grandstand seats at Horse Guards Parade offer the best close-up view, while large crowds also line The Mall for free to watch the procession, the Royal Family, and the balcony appearance.
Do I need tickets for Trooping the Colour?
Yes, for a grandstand seat at Horse Guards Parade. Tickets are sold through the official box office and sell out quickly, so booking early is essential. Watching from The Mall and around Buckingham Palace is free, though you will need to arrive very early for a good spot, as crowds build well before the parade begins.
What happens at Trooping the Colour?
The ceremony centres on the trooping of a regimental Colour through the ranks of Guardsmen on Horse Guards Parade. It includes a royal salute, inspection of the troops, marching and musical displays by the massed bands, and a procession back along The Mall. The day traditionally ends with the Royal Family on the balcony at Buckingham Palace to watch a flypast.
Is Trooping the Colour suitable for families and first-time visitors to London?
Yes, it is one of the most memorable free-to-watch events in London and a wonderful introduction to British royal pageantry. Families should arrive early, bring water and sun protection, and choose a spot along The Mall if they do not have grandstand tickets. Combining the parade with St James’s Park, Westminster Abbey, Trafalgar Square, and Buckingham Palace makes for a perfect day in central London.
No matching questions. Try another search term.
