I will be in London June 15 when Trooping the Colour reviewed by His Majesty occurs. You must go online to obtain a ballot for a chance at purchasing a ticket to the seated stands but that has not yet opened and I am unaware as to the date that will happen. From past experience, does anyone know the typical date on which ballots can first be obtained? Also, any information/advice on getting a ballot would be appreciated. And finally, if I am unable to obtain a ballot and ticket, any information as to crowds, where to stand and when to arrive to view the procession on the Mall would also be appreciated.
Posted by
Singapore
312 posts
Ballots for the sovereign' parade will normally open in March. You can apply on the Army web site (https://kbp.army.mod.uk/holding.htm).
The Household Division web site (https://www.householddivision.org.uk/trooping-the-colour) gives guidance on where to stand if you don't have tickets- basically along The Mall and at the edge of St James' Park overlooking Horseguards. Definitely arrive early.
A few other notes - may not apply to you, but might be helpful for others. Commonwealth High Commissions for countries in which the King is also sovereign (Australia, Canada, NZ etc) usually receive an allocation of tickets to events such as Trooping the Colour (also the Chelsea Flower Show and invitations to the royal garden parties) that their citizens can apply to be allocated. Some London clubs such as ROSL also have an allocation.
If you're in London earlier, 1st June is Trooping the Colour reviewed by the Major General Commanding the Household Division (Maj Gen James Bowder) and 8th June by HRH The Princess of Wales as Colonel of the Regiment. These tickets are much easier to obtain. There is plenty of activity and troops along The Mall and on Horseguards Parade in the days prior.
Posted by
Moncton NB
1039 posts
One year I got lucky and happened to be on the Mall as the Rehearsal for the Trooping of the Colour was going one (one or two weeks before the official event). It was great because Prince William was taking the salute for the rehearsal, and we still got to see all the troops and carriages, and Princes William and Harry to boot!