With hearts full of pride and gratitude, Britain today marks the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day, paying homage to the courage, sacrifice, and unyielding spirit that triumphed over tyranny in 1945.
As thousands gather in central London, the United Kingdom stands tall in remembrance of the day the guns fell silent across Europe and peace prevailed after six long years of war.
Under a brilliant spring sky, the day’s commemorations were led by His Majesty The King, who has made honouring Britain’s wartime legacy a cornerstone of his reign. The Armed Forces procession, a stirring symbol of the nation’s continuity and strength, began in Parliament Square, the very heart of democratic Britain, at precisely midday, as the chimes of Big Ben echoed over the crowd.
In a moment that blended past and present, acclaimed actor Timothy Spall delivered a powerful reading from Winston Churchill’s iconic VE Day broadcast of 8 May 1945, reminding the nation of the indomitable resolve of the wartime Prime Minister and the British people: “We may allow ourselves a brief period of rejoicing…”
Then, in a deeply moving gesture, 100-year-old Normandy veteran Alan Kennett gave the official permission for the grand parade to begin. Mr. Kennett, who stormed the beaches of France in June 1944, stood proudly before the troops — a living bridge to the greatest generation. His presence served as a humbling reminder of the millions who served, fought, and fell in defence of liberty.
Spectators lined the streets at least ten deep, waving Union Flags and singing wartime songs as the pageantry unfolded — a celebration not of war, but of peace hard-won and freedom fiercely defended. Crowds are erupting in applause as regiments in immaculate dress marched past the Cenotaph, and veterans, some in wheelchairs, are saluted by a grateful nation.
Ceremonies in Parliament Square launched the procession as the Armed Forces march up Whitehall, through Admiralty Arch and down the Mall towards Buckingham Palace. Second World War veterans will join special guests at the Queen Victoria Memorial to watch the procession.
Seven military bands are involved in the procession, including The Band of The Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment on horseback.
Later today, the eyes of the world will turn to Buckingham Palace, where members of the Royal Family will gather on the balcony to witness a spectacular Royal Air Force flypast — a breathtaking display of aerial prowess paying tribute to “The Few” of the Battle of Britain and the thousands who followed them. Spitfires, Hurricanes, and modern RAF Typhoons will soar overhead, painting the skies with remembrance and pride.
The day will culminate in a heartfelt garden tea party hosted by Their Majesties The King and Queen, where veterans and members of the Second World War generation will share stories, toast fallen comrades, and reflect on a time when unity and resolve preserved the freedoms we cherish today.
Across the United Kingdom — from cathedrals to community halls — bells rang out, services of thanksgiving were held, and schoolchildren learned anew what it means to be British. The bravery of the Home Front, the defiance of the Blitz spirit, and the heroism of those who served on land, sea, and air were honoured in full.
VE Day 80 is more than an anniversary. It is a reaffirmation of our national character: resolute in adversity, united in purpose, and steadfast in honouring those who gave all for peace. As His Majesty The King declared in his address: “Let us never forget that our freedom was bought at great cost. Today, we salute our heroes with pride and gratitude that will echo through the generations.”
The UK Armed Forces are also taking a leading role in VE Day 80 commemorations in Edinburgh, Belfast and Cardiff.
Britain remembers — and Britain remains forever proud.
Photos licenced under the MOD Crown Copyright News / Editorial Licence.
Main Image: The Life Guards, The Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment. Photographer:
LPhot Mathew Bradley UK MOD © Crown copyright 2025
