Want to make coronation memories that will last a lifetime? From colourful displays to royal-themed experiences and hotel stays fit for a monarch, here are our tips on how to make the most of King Charles III’s coronation in Regent Street and nearby St James’s this May.
1. COUNT THE CORONATION FLAGS
Marvel at a colourful display of over 150 Union Jack flags, which take over the length of Regent Street from 25th April. Flying proudly above, from the north of the iconic street, along the iconic curve, and down to Waterloo Place, this sea of red, white and blue has become a lasting image of the coronation celebrations in London. Make sure to spot the new coronation emblem, which forms part of the display. You can also see the flags in nearby St James’s from 30th April.
2. DISCOVER AN ICONIC INSTALLATION
St James’s Market plays host to another must-see display over the coronation period. Lit in glistening gold, James Glancy Design’s emblem art installation will become a focal point of the celebrations and will be available to view from the 27th of April, in the neighbourhood. Study the striking design inspired by the official emblem of the coronation, and spot the flora and fauna representing the four nations, shaped into a crown.
3. TUCK INTO CORONATION-THEMED TEAS
Find royally indulgent treats as part of The Langham's timely tea, the Fit for A King Afternoon Tea – this special coronation-themed spread is served from 3rd May until 28th May in its elegant Palm Court.
4. WATCH A MOMENT IN HISTORY
Of course, you won’t want to miss a moment of the coronation; so head to nearby St James’s Market on 6th & 7th May, where you’ll be able to catch televised coverage of this historic event on a big screen. Recline in a comfy deckchair and revel in this once-in-a-lifetime moment – all available to view for free.
5. SHOP WHERE THE ROYALS DO
Follow in royal footsteps by exploring some of the many Royal Warrant Holders in the area. These shops frequented by the Royal Family have been awarded warrants for their services – so, enjoy a spray or two of fantastic fragrances from Penhaligon’s or pamper yourself with Molton Brown's sumptuous soaps and body care products from its flagship store.
6. TURN ON THE ROYAL STYLE IN THE FASHION MILE
Make sure to emulate the Royals’ flawless fashion sense with some picks of your own from Regent Street. Seek out sharp suits and shirts like the King, elegant outfits befitting of the Queen Consort, or the latest trends worn by the young royals – Burberry's famous check, Liberty London's prints and Hackett's British tailoring will help to kit you out for any last-minute invites to a coronation ball.
7. FIND FOODIE FEASTS FIT FOR A KING
Eateries across the neighbourhood are creating special dishes, menus, and cocktails for the celebrations. Over the coronation weekend, Bentley’s Oyster Bar & Grill will lay out the red carpet with royal favourites including a Royal Fish Pie, and smoked salmon with crispy egg and caviar – which was served to Queen Elizabeth II on her 80th birthday.
8. ENJOY A ROYALLY GOOD STAY
Book into the Royal Suite at Hotel Café Royal and you will be indulged with its Crown Jewels Experience. As part of the package, you’ll be treated to a tour of the Tower of London and will have your own personal viewing of the Crown Jewels, which will play a key part in the coronation ceremony. Alternatively, the King Charles III Experience includes a chauffeur-driven tour in the Queen Mother’s Daimler, taking in key sites related to the King.
9. BE PAMPERED LIKE A MONARCH
A long day following the celebrations calls for some time to put your feet up over the weekend. Check into one of Regent Street’s spas for some sovereign-esque spoiling – Akasha Holistic Wellbeing Centre's Ayurvedic and Four Senses treatments and Chuan Body + Soul's treatments based on traditional Chinese medicine will make you feel royally renewed.
10. TREAT YOUR LITTLE PRINCES AND PRINCESSES
If the sight of Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis on the balcony of Buckingham Palace makes your kids want to become Royals, take them to Hamleys. Here, they can find all sorts of regal toys and games, from LEGO royal guards to Disney princesses.
Crown your time in Regent Street with even more fun activities by following these 63 ideas for a royal day out in London.