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Trooping the Colour is one of London's must-see events. But did you know that they're holding a full rehearsal one week before called the Colonel's Review? (The first rehearsal, called the Major General's Review, is being held another two weeks before that.)
Full rehearsal for Trooping the Colour
On display will be 1,400 soldiers from the Household Division and King's Troop Royal Horse Artillery, plus another 400 musicians from the Massed Bands. And unlike the Major General's Review, the Colonel's Review also includes 250 Foot Guards lining the processional route up The Mall.
The only parts of the main parade that you miss out on are the RAF flypast and the Royal Family standing on the Buckingham Palace balcony.
Photo: Jon/FlickrLieutenant General Sir James Bucknall, Regimental Colonel Coldstream Guards will take the salute this year.
Applying for a ticket in Horse Guards
If you don't mind standing then you can watch the soldiers march up the Mall from 9 AM for free. You can also stand on the eastern edge of St. James's Park for a limited view into Horse Guards, but your view of the action will likely be blocked by soldiers from here.
If you'd rather sit down then you'll have to apply for a ticket inside the grandstand. They'll be available to purchase from early March. See kbp.army.mod.uk for more details.
Is there a dress code?
There's a smart casual dress code for sitting in the stands, so dress as if you're attending a wedding. Think suit or jacket, tie and trousers, and equivalent for the ladies. Serving military personnel may wear their Ceremonial Day uniform with medals.
Umbrellas and parasols are not allowed as they might obstruct the view of the people sitting behind.
If you enjoy Horse Guards then you might like to visit Downing Street (you can walk it in less than 3 mins) and Parliament Square (you can walk it in 6 mins)
