Coronation Celebrations
On 2 June 1953, after 16 months of intricate preparation, Elizabeth II was crowned at Westminster Abbey. Six decades on, the country is celebrating this extraordinary anniversary with traditional gusto – and here’s how…
Coronation!
A new exhibition of archive pictures of the 1953 Coronation, and rarely seen images of the extensive building work by the Ministry of Works to prepare Westminster Abbey for the event.
Where Westminster Abbey, London SW1: 020-7222 5152, www.westminster-abbey.org
When 1 May to 30 September
Ironbridge Gorge Walking Festival
The new, Coronation themed walk around the Ironbridge Gorge Museums features some of the locations visited by the Royals since 1900.
Where Various locations around Ironbridge, Shropshire: 01952-433424, www.visitironbridge.co.uk/walkingfestival
When 4 to 12 May
Coronation Concert
The Choir of St George’s Chapel, Windsor Castle, presents a musical celebration of the 60th anniversary of the Coronation of HM Queen Elizabeth II, featuring Zadok The Priest, Behold O God Our Defender and I Was Glad.
Where St George’s Chapel, Windsor Castle, Berkshire: 01753-743900, www.windsor.gov.uk
When 10 May
We’ll Meet Again: A 60th Anniversary Coronation Tribute UK Tour
Star of TV, stage and screen, Jean Boht presents a spectacular 60th anniversary Coronation tribute, featuring timeless classics, including We’ll Meet Again, In The Mood, Sing, Sing, Sing, The White Cliffs Of Dover, and many more, with music by the London Concert Orchestra.
Where Symphony Hall, Broad Street, Birmingham; 0121-780 4949, www.thsh.co.uk
When 12 May to 15 June More dates and venues at: 020-7025 3750, www.raymondgubbay.co.uk
The Highfield Social Club
This Social Club was formed in June 1953 to celebrate the Coronation and will be celebrating again from 18 May with a Jubilee Ball. From 25 to 27 May, there will be music and entertainment inspired by the past 60 years. Also expect a family fun day with fairground rides and Punch and Judy shows.
Where The Highfield Social Club, George Street, Bicester: 01869-252876, www.highfieldsocialclub.co.uk
When From 18 May
The Chipping Sodbury Jazz Festival
This three-day event features jazz musicians in many of the town’s pubs and cafes, who will keep you in celebratory Coronation spirits.
Where Various locations around Chipping Sodbury: 01454-294779, www.mysodbury.co.uk
When 31 May to 2 June
Sixty Glorious Years
A patriotic celebration of the life and times of the Queen, with a nostalgic nod to popular English music and songs.
Where St Mary’s House, Bramber, West Sussex: 01903-816205, www.stmarysbramber.co.uk
When 1 June
A Royal Celebration
A rare opportunity to dine in Waddesdon Manor at night. The three-course celebration dinner, £38.50 per person, is inspired by the Queen’s visit to Waddesdon in 1995.
Where Waddesdon Manor, Aylesbury, Oxon: 01296- 653226, www.waddesdon.org.uk
When 1 June
Coronation Singalong at the Royal Albert Hall
Jonathan Cohen leads a fun-filled afternoon as you get a chance to sing along to some old-time favourites, such as Roll Out The Barrel, Pack Up Your Troubles and It’s A Long Way To Tipperary. In the evening, Coronation Classics marks the anniversary with performances of anthems, such as Zadok The Priest, Jerusalem, Jupiter and Land Of Hope And Glory. Where Royal Albert Hall, Kensington Gore, London SW7: 0845-401 5034, www.royalalberthall.com
When 2 June
Royal Picnic
Celebrate the Coronation in the sunshine (hopefully) at this Royal picnic.
Where The Village Green, Checkendon: www.checkendon.org
When 2 June
Queen’s Coronation Street Party
Tables and chairs will be available for about 500 people and everyone will be invited to bring a picnic. There is also music and street entertainment.
Where High Road, Chipstead Village, Surrey: 01737-553962, www.chipsteadvillage.org
When 2 June
Day Of History
In 1953 the Talyllyn Railway gave local schoolchildren a free ride up the line to celebrate the Coronation. The railway will recreate the journey using the original steam engine and carriages, decorated with flags and bunting.
Where Talyllyn Railway Company, Tywyn, Gwynedd, Wales: 01654- 710472, www.talyllyn.co.uk
When 2 June
Sodbury Celebrates: The Big Lunch
Bring your own food and drink and set up tables and gazebos in Broad Street. Pubs and cafes will also be running stalls and there will be entertainment for all ages, so dust off your bunting and start planning your picnic.
Where Chipping Sodbury Clock Tower, High Street, Chipping Sodbury: 01454- 294779, www.mysodbury.co.uk
When 2 June
A Picnic In The Park
Take your own picnic to Town Mead Leisure Park, spread out a rug or picnic table and enjoy the day. There will be live music to keep everyone entertained and in high spirits.
Where Town Mead Leisure Park, Waltham Abbey: 01992-714949, www.wafestivaltown.wordpress.com
When 2 June
Coronation Lecture At Westminster Abbey
The Rt Revd and Rt Hon Dr Richard Chartres, KCVO, Bishop of London, will give a talk in celebration of the 60th anniversary of the Coronation Service. This public lecture is free, but booking is required.
Where Westminster Abbey, London SW1: 020-7222 5152, www.westminster-abbey.org
When 7 June
Coronation Ball
Enjoy a cocktail and a three-course meal before you rock around the clock with 1950s-style band The Cadillacs.
Where Winchester Cathedral, Hampshire: 01962-857275, www.winchestercathedral.org.uk
When 8 June
Double Diamond Anniversary Celebration
The Southampton Concert Orchestra presents a gala concert to celebrate the 60th anniversary of both the Coronation and the opening of Sir Harold Hillier Gardens.
Where Sir Harold Hillier Gardens, Romsey, Hampshire: 01794-369317, www.concertorchestra.com/concerts
When 8 June
Burford Singers Grand Gala
This concert includes Coronation anthems and marches, and music associated with other major Royal occasions. Also includes contributions from the Cotswold Children’s Choir.
Where Church Of St John The Baptist, Burford, Oxfordshire: 01993- 822539, www.burfordsingers.org.uk
When 9 June
Coronation gala Concert at Westminster Abbey
Conducted by Organist and Master of the Choiristers James O’Donnell and performed by the Choir of Westminster Abbey. Includes Coronation music through the ages, including works by Purcell, Handel, Parry and Walton.
Where Westminster Abbey, London SW1: 020-7638 8891, www.westminster-abbey.org
When 13 June
The Coronation Tea Party
Look back to 1953 as you enjoy afternoon tea to the music of the era. Also 1950s food, including jelly and blancmange. Dress in red, white and blue.
Where Riverside Centre, Stratford St Andrew, Suffolk: 01473-251632, www.sefwi.org.uk
When 17 June
Gloriana at the Royal Opera House
Benjamin Britten’s Gloriana was commissioned by the Royal Opera House to mark the Coronation of Elizabeth II in 1953. Richard Jones directs this new staging of the opera, which explores tensions between affairs of the state and of the heart.
Where Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, London WC2: 020-7304 4000, www.roh.org.uk
When 20 June to 6 July
Explore the exhibits of 200 companies who hold the Royal Warrants of Appointment in the gardens of Buckingham Palace. Sample and purchase fine food and drinks and celebrate the best of British craft.
Where Gardens of Buckingham Palace, London SW1: 0844-858 9071, www.coronationfestival.com
When 11 to 14 July
The Coronation Gala
The Gardens of Buckingham Palace will also be the setting for a spectacular gala celebrating cultural life during the reign of Her Majesty, showcasing the achievements and personalities of this extraordinary age.
Where Gardens of Buckingham Palace, London SW1: 0844-858 9071, www.coronationfestival.com
When 12 to 13 July
Buckingham Palace Summer Opening 2013
See some of the greatest treasures from the Royal Collection in the Palace’s magnificent ballroom, including the Queen’s satin Coronation dress, designed by Norman Hartnell.
Where Buckingham Palace, London SW1: 020-7766 7300, www.royalcollection.org
When 27 July to 29 September
St Martin’s Place, London WC2: 020-7306 0055, www.npg.org.uk
Coronation!
A new exhibition of archive pictures of the 1953 Coronation, and rarely seen images of the extensive building work by the Ministry of Works to prepare Westminster Abbey for the event.
Where Westminster Abbey, London SW1: 020-7222 5152, www.westminster-abbey.org
When 1 May to 30 September
Ironbridge Gorge Walking Festival
The new, Coronation themed walk around the Ironbridge Gorge Museums features some of the locations visited by the Royals since 1900.
Where Various locations around Ironbridge, Shropshire: 01952-433424, www.visitironbridge.co.uk/walkingfestival
When 4 to 12 May
Coronation Concert
The Choir of St George’s Chapel, Windsor Castle, presents a musical celebration of the 60th anniversary of the Coronation of HM Queen Elizabeth II, featuring Zadok The Priest, Behold O God Our Defender and I Was Glad.
Where St George’s Chapel, Windsor Castle, Berkshire: 01753-743900, www.windsor.gov.uk
When 10 May
We’ll Meet Again: A 60th Anniversary Coronation Tribute UK Tour
Star of TV, stage and screen, Jean Boht presents a spectacular 60th anniversary Coronation tribute, featuring timeless classics, including We’ll Meet Again, In The Mood, Sing, Sing, Sing, The White Cliffs Of Dover, and many more, with music by the London Concert Orchestra.
Where Symphony Hall, Broad Street, Birmingham; 0121-780 4949, www.thsh.co.uk
When 12 May to 15 June More dates and venues at: 020-7025 3750, www.raymondgubbay.co.uk
This Social Club was formed in June 1953 to celebrate the Coronation and will be celebrating again from 18 May with a Jubilee Ball. From 25 to 27 May, there will be music and entertainment inspired by the past 60 years. Also expect a family fun day with fairground rides and Punch and Judy shows.
Where The Highfield Social Club, George Street, Bicester: 01869-252876, www.highfieldsocialclub.co.uk
When From 18 May
The Chipping Sodbury Jazz Festival
This three-day event features jazz musicians in many of the town’s pubs and cafes, who will keep you in celebratory Coronation spirits.
Where Various locations around Chipping Sodbury: 01454-294779, www.mysodbury.co.uk
When 31 May to 2 June
Sixty Glorious Years
A patriotic celebration of the life and times of the Queen, with a nostalgic nod to popular English music and songs.
Where St Mary’s House, Bramber, West Sussex: 01903-816205, www.stmarysbramber.co.uk
When 1 June
A Royal Celebration
A rare opportunity to dine in Waddesdon Manor at night. The three-course celebration dinner, £38.50 per person, is inspired by the Queen’s visit to Waddesdon in 1995.
Where Waddesdon Manor, Aylesbury, Oxon: 01296- 653226, www.waddesdon.org.uk
When 1 June
Coronation Singalong at the Royal Albert Hall
Jonathan Cohen leads a fun-filled afternoon as you get a chance to sing along to some old-time favourites, such as Roll Out The Barrel, Pack Up Your Troubles and It’s A Long Way To Tipperary. In the evening, Coronation Classics marks the anniversary with performances of anthems, such as Zadok The Priest, Jerusalem, Jupiter and Land Of Hope And Glory. Where Royal Albert Hall, Kensington Gore, London SW7: 0845-401 5034, www.royalalberthall.com
When 2 June
Royal Picnic
Celebrate the Coronation in the sunshine (hopefully) at this Royal picnic.
Where The Village Green, Checkendon: www.checkendon.org
When 2 June
Queen’s Coronation Street Party
Tables and chairs will be available for about 500 people and everyone will be invited to bring a picnic. There is also music and street entertainment.
Where High Road, Chipstead Village, Surrey: 01737-553962, www.chipsteadvillage.org
When 2 June
Day Of History
In 1953 the Talyllyn Railway gave local schoolchildren a free ride up the line to celebrate the Coronation. The railway will recreate the journey using the original steam engine and carriages, decorated with flags and bunting.
Where Talyllyn Railway Company, Tywyn, Gwynedd, Wales: 01654- 710472, www.talyllyn.co.uk
When 2 June
Sodbury Celebrates: The Big Lunch
Bring your own food and drink and set up tables and gazebos in Broad Street. Pubs and cafes will also be running stalls and there will be entertainment for all ages, so dust off your bunting and start planning your picnic.
Where Chipping Sodbury Clock Tower, High Street, Chipping Sodbury: 01454- 294779, www.mysodbury.co.uk
When 2 June
A Picnic In The Park
Take your own picnic to Town Mead Leisure Park, spread out a rug or picnic table and enjoy the day. There will be live music to keep everyone entertained and in high spirits.
Where Town Mead Leisure Park, Waltham Abbey: 01992-714949, www.wafestivaltown.wordpress.com
When 2 June
Coronation Lecture At Westminster Abbey
The Rt Revd and Rt Hon Dr Richard Chartres, KCVO, Bishop of London, will give a talk in celebration of the 60th anniversary of the Coronation Service. This public lecture is free, but booking is required.
Where Westminster Abbey, London SW1: 020-7222 5152, www.westminster-abbey.org
When 7 June
Coronation Ball
Enjoy a cocktail and a three-course meal before you rock around the clock with 1950s-style band The Cadillacs.
Where Winchester Cathedral, Hampshire: 01962-857275, www.winchestercathedral.org.uk
When 8 June
Double Diamond Anniversary Celebration
The Southampton Concert Orchestra presents a gala concert to celebrate the 60th anniversary of both the Coronation and the opening of Sir Harold Hillier Gardens.
Where Sir Harold Hillier Gardens, Romsey, Hampshire: 01794-369317, www.concertorchestra.com/concerts
When 8 June
Burford Singers Grand Gala
This concert includes Coronation anthems and marches, and music associated with other major Royal occasions. Also includes contributions from the Cotswold Children’s Choir.
Where Church Of St John The Baptist, Burford, Oxfordshire: 01993- 822539, www.burfordsingers.org.uk
When 9 June
Coronation gala Concert at Westminster Abbey
Conducted by Organist and Master of the Choiristers James O’Donnell and performed by the Choir of Westminster Abbey. Includes Coronation music through the ages, including works by Purcell, Handel, Parry and Walton.
Where Westminster Abbey, London SW1: 020-7638 8891, www.westminster-abbey.org
When 13 June
The Coronation Tea Party
Look back to 1953 as you enjoy afternoon tea to the music of the era. Also 1950s food, including jelly and blancmange. Dress in red, white and blue.
Where Riverside Centre, Stratford St Andrew, Suffolk: 01473-251632, www.sefwi.org.uk
When 17 June
Gloriana at the Royal Opera House
Benjamin Britten’s Gloriana was commissioned by the Royal Opera House to mark the Coronation of Elizabeth II in 1953. Richard Jones directs this new staging of the opera, which explores tensions between affairs of the state and of the heart.
Where Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, London WC2: 020-7304 4000, www.roh.org.uk
When 20 June to 6 July
AT THE PALACE…
The Coronation FestivalExplore the exhibits of 200 companies who hold the Royal Warrants of Appointment in the gardens of Buckingham Palace. Sample and purchase fine food and drinks and celebrate the best of British craft.
Where Gardens of Buckingham Palace, London SW1: 0844-858 9071, www.coronationfestival.com
When 11 to 14 July
The Coronation Gala
The Gardens of Buckingham Palace will also be the setting for a spectacular gala celebrating cultural life during the reign of Her Majesty, showcasing the achievements and personalities of this extraordinary age.
Where Gardens of Buckingham Palace, London SW1: 0844-858 9071, www.coronationfestival.com
When 12 to 13 July
Buckingham Palace Summer Opening 2013
See some of the greatest treasures from the Royal Collection in the Palace’s magnificent ballroom, including the Queen’s satin Coronation dress, designed by Norman Hartnell.
Where Buckingham Palace, London SW1: 020-7766 7300, www.royalcollection.org
When 27 July to 29 September
All the other royals…
And don’t forget that you can go face to face with hundreds of years’ of Britain’s monarchs, including Elizabeth II, at the National Portrait Gallery.St Martin’s Place, London WC2: 020-7306 0055, www.npg.org.uk