June 2022 marks a special occasion in the United Kingdom, the Queen's Platinum Jubilee and bank holiday weekend between 1 and 5 of June. From stunning flower displays to traditional parades, there’s something for everyone. So, hop on one of our
trains to London and get involved.
1 June – 18 September
In Spring 2022, more than 20 million seeds will be sown in the moat surrounding the Tower of London for the Platinum Jubilee. From June to September, these flowers will bloom to create a vivid and memorable experience. Designed to bring more natural beauty to Central London. Go and experience this amazing floral display in the capital. Roam along a winding path into the centre of the display, with a specially commissioned sound installation and sculptural elements, designed to draw you in. The perfect experience for those who want to slow it down and experience the Queen's Platinum Jubilee.
2 June
Trooping the Colour is a traditional event that takes place every year but has extra importance for the Platinum Jubilee. Experience the traditional pomp and ceremony of Trooping the Colour, a ceremony that dates back to King Charles II. A parade of over 1,400 soldiers, 200 horses and 400 musicians will come together to mark the Queen’s official birthday. Starting at Buckingham Palace and making its way down the Mall to Horse Guards Parade, where it will be joined by members of the Royal Family either in carriages or on horseback.
To close, there will be the traditional RAF fly-past, which is watched by the Queen and other royal family members from the Buckingham Palace balcony. Be part of it and grab yourself some tickets to this parade.
2 June – 31 July
This exhibition focusses on the life and works of the sculptor Mary Gillick, who was invited to model the Queen’s head for UK coins in 1953. These portraits of the Queen would continue to appear on coins until 1971 with the advent of decimalisation.
The exhibition itself will follow her career from training at the Royal College of Art through her work as a medallist up to her 1953 success and beyond. This celebration of someone so closely tied to the public image of the Queen is a must-see.
4 June
With the backing of the BBC, the Platinum Party at the Palace will bring some of the biggest acts and performers to honour some of the most important cultural moments from the Queen’s seven-decade reign. Featuring state of the art technology and a spectacular design for the stage, this event will be one to remember. From global music stars supported by a full live orchestra to actors from stage and screen. The ticket ballot closes on 23 March, so make sure to apply for your chance to go and see this amazing event in person.
5 June
To wrap up the days of celebration, the final official event marking this occasion is the Platinum Jubilee Pageant. A brilliant combination of theatre, music, carnival, costume and street arts. This amazing event highlights Her Majesty’s duty, her love of nature and her dedication to the people of the Commonwealth. Set against the backdrop of Buckingham Palace and the surrounding streets, this pageant is free to see and is a wonderful way to round off the official celebrations of the Platinum Jubilee.
Other Royal Activities
Afternoon Tea
Take part in one of the Queen’s favourite traditions, one she’s said to indulge in every day - a spot of afternoon tea.
Try the delightful service offered by
Corinthia. Offering a luxurious selection of finger sandwiches, scones and treats, along with a fantastic selection of teas. This afternoon tea is designed to show off the individual elements of a tea ceremony. Glistening with the glow of over 1000 Baccarat crystals, afternoon tea here is a mesmerising way to spend the bank holiday weekend.
Another great afternoon tea is offered at Sandersons.
The Mad Hatters Afternoon Tea allows you to tumble down the rabbit hole yourself and discover a tea party that’s beyond compare. Here you’ll find a whimsical take on afternoon tea, with themed sweet and savoury dishes along with Mad Hatter teas and cocktails.
Royal Tours
There are also plenty of other historic parts of London with Royal history.
Visit the Queens official London residence in
Buckingham Palace. Here you can find the stunning State Rooms open during the summer months. There is also the Throne Room, the magnificent Grand Staircase, and many pieces of fine art by painters such as Rembrandt and Canaletto.
Tower of London, with some of its original features still intact, from its founding in 1066. Here you’ll find the Crown Jewels with their spellbinding gemstones and their royal protection, the famous ravens of the tower, as well as the armour exhibition located in the White Tower.
Westminster Abbey, the Royal Church, a world heritage site with a thousand years of history. Here you can tour the Royal tombs, which serve as the final resting place of 30 kings and queens, dating back to Edward the Confessor. The Coronation chair, which has been the official chair in all coronations of British Monarchs since 1308. Lastly, see the Grave of the Unknown Warrior, which is dedicated to the unknown dead of the First World War.
With all these activities and places to visit, London is a fantastic place to celebrate the Queens Platinum Jubilee. If you’re still looking for things to do in the capital that weekend, you can see our guide on some fun
things to do in Paddington, or see our
travel inspiration page for some more ideas for activities and destinations.
