King’s Army Parade to Banqueting House for Charles I

The English Civil War Society will be marching through central London to commemorate the martyrdom of King Charles I in 1649.

Around 500 of their members will be dressed up as soldiers from the King's Army, all clothed and equipped in Civil War style, to mark one of the most momentous events in English history.

March from St. James's Palace to Horse Guards

Photo: thekingsarmy.org.uk

The route follows in the footsteps of the King's final journey from St. James's Palace to Banqueting House, where he was put to death on a scaffold in the street.

At 11.15 AM the army will enter the Mall and begin a slow, solemn march to the beat of muffled drums, carrying a wreath that 'Remembers His Majestie's Horrid Murder'.

Photo: thekingsarmy.org.uk

At around 12 noon they will reach Horse Guards and perform a religious drumhead service on the parade ground, during which they will troop their colour (parade their regimental flag), administer an Oath of Loyalty, and present some awards.

A small contingent will then march through the central arch and form up opposite Banqueting House.

Wreath laying and mass at Banqueting House

Photo: Craig Cross

Prayers will then be said in front of the King's bust above the door, followed by a wreath-laying ceremony. They will then head inside to take part in a special mass.

At around 12.30 PM another wreath will be placed by the King's equestrian statute on that little traffic island at the top end of Whitehall (in front of Nelson's Column).

They will then march back to St. James's Palace giving great shouts of acclamation to their martyred King.

I also recommend… If you enjoy Banqueting House then you might like to visit Guildhall (catch a tube from Westminster to Bank) and Mansion House (Westminster to Bank)

The author Craig Cross owns londondrum.com and has spent the last decade reviewing the capital’s landmarks, attractions and hotels. His guidebook London Squire is available from Amazon