Rehearsals are in full swing at Horse Guards Parade as the British Army prepares for one of its most prestigious annual events — Trooping the Colour, which this year will be held on Saturday 14 June 2025 in the presence of His Majesty The King.
This year, Number 7 Company Coldstream Guards will have the honour of Trooping their Colour — a tradition that dates back to the reign of King Charles II (1660–1685) and has marked the official birthday of the Sovereign since 1748. It became an annual event following the accession of King George III in 1760.
More than 1,350 soldiers from the Household Division and King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery are participating, along with over 300 musicians from the Massed Bands. Additionally, 250 Foot Guards will line the processional route along The Mall, adding to the grandeur of the occasion. The full ceremony is a masterclass in military precision, discipline, and pageantry — a proud tradition honouring centuries of service to the Crown.
While His Majesty’s actual birthday is on 14 November, the tradition of celebrating the Sovereign’s official birthday with this parade continues. The King’s Birthday Parade remains one of the most iconic displays of national pride and military heritage in the United Kingdom.
Rehearsals play a vital role in maintaining the flawless execution of this complex event. As an event spokesperson noted: “It’s clear that this year’s Coldstream Guards Trooping the Colour will be like no other!” The Coldstream Guards also mark a historic milestone this year — 375 years since their formation by Oliver Cromwell as part of the New Model Army, the foundation of Britain’s modern military.
How to Watch Trooping the Colour
Public Viewing Options:
- Ticketed Seating on Horse Guards Parade were available through an online ballot, which closed on 24 March 2025. Successful applicants have been notified and invited to purchase their tickets.
- However, there will be Standing Room: Members of the public may view the parade from The Mall or the edge of St James’s Parkoverlooking Horse Guards Parade from 9.00am. Please note that visibility may be limited due to the number of troops on parade. Public vantage points are indicated with black dotted lines on official maps.
Parade Schedule (Saturday 14 June 2025):
- Start: 10.30am at Horse Guards Parade
- End: 12.25pm
- RAF Flypast over The Mall: 1.00pm
Broadcast: The full ceremony will be broadcast live on the BBC across the UK.
Ticket Information and Prices
Ticket prices vary depending on the review event and accessibility needs:
| Event | Seated | Wheelchair (+1 companion) |
|---|---|---|
| Major General’s Review | £10 | £10 |
| Colonel’s Review | £15 | £15 |
| The King’s Birthday Parade | £30 | £30 |
- Each wheelchair-accessible ticket includes a space for the wheelchair user and a seat for one companion.
- Tickets must be purchased separately for each event; group bookings across events are not available.
- Printed tickets must be kept secure; replacements are not available for lost or stolen tickets.
With centuries of history and tradition behind it, Trooping the Colour remains a cherished symbol of British ceremonial excellence. As this year’s parade draws closer, anticipation builds for what promises to be a truly unforgettable celebration of the King’s official birthday and the legacy of the Coldstream Guards.
For more details click here: https://kbp.army.mod.uk/kingsbirthdayparade/
Photos: MOD Crown Copyright News / Editorial Licence.
