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Explore the palace of westminster this summer.

This summer explore the Palace of Westminster and discover its rich history. Book now for tours of UK Parliament 

The Palace of Westminster is home to the House of Commons and the House of Lords, where Members of Parliament meet.

Discover the heritage of the Palace of Westminster and choose between a guided tour accompanied by an expert tour guide or go at your own pace using a multimedia guide.

Both tours include the Chambers of the House of Commons and the House of Lords. You will also follow in the footsteps of the Queen at State Opening, take in the ornate decor of the Royal Gallery, and explore medieval Westminster Hall with its connections to Guy Fawkes and King Charles I.

During the fun and informative 90-minute guided tour in English, you will find out about the history and work of UK Parliament. Alternatively, discover the heart of UK politics at your own pace using the video and audio stories on the multimedia device. Immerse yourself in the history, art, and architecture of the building, and find out what happens today at UK Parliament.

Offered in ten languages, the self-guided tour is suitable for children of all ages, with specially designed content for younger visitors.

Booking Information

All tours can be booked online . We recommend that you book in advance as places are limited.

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16-24s go free on available tours up until 11th December - choose your tour and book your free ticket now!

Guided online tour of the Palace of Westminster Dates and Times

Guided online tour of the palace of westminster.

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Visiting The Palace of Westminster, London

Enter the heart of British Politics with a visit to the Palace of Westminster in London. Understand the workings of the UK government and learn how and why the Parliament and Big Ben were constructed. There is so much to admire about this UNESCO World Heritage Site with its unique structure, beautiful façade and inspiring monuments and statues. Big Ben, the landmark clock tower that defines London’s skyline stands tall as a true icon and symbol of Britain. The Palace of Westminster is located in the Buckingham Palace neighbourhood of London and can be easily reached via Westminster tube station.

There are a few guided tours of Parliament that are offered on selected dates throughout the year. Make sure to book early as these tickets will sell out fast

History of the Houses of Parliament and big ben:

Houses of Parliament and Big Ben

The Houses of Parliament, also known as the Palace of Westminster is the location of the two parliamentary houses of the United Kingdom: The House of Lords and the House of Commons. Its clock tower, Big Ben, is one of the most recognizable structures in the world.

Since the year 1265, the Houses of Parliament has operated at this location, making it one of the world’s oldest parliaments. The Palace of Westminster stood for hundreds of years until a fire destroyed it in 1834. It took over thirty years to rebuild, but in 1870, a new complex in a neo-Gothic style was completed, which incorporated the buildings that survived the fire. It includes the Clock Tower (Big Ben), House of Commons, House of Lords, Westminster Hall, Victoria House and the Lobbies.

Designed by the architect Charles Barry, the most famous part is the elegant clock tower. Originally named St. Stephen’s Tower, it soon became known as Big Ben after the tower’s largest bell.

Highlights:

Westminster Hall is the oldest hall of the Houses of Parliament. Dating all the way back to 1097, it stands today as one of Europe’s largest unsupported medieval halls. See the astonishing hammer-beam roof and magnificent architecture and learn the how the hall operated as the legal and administrative centre of government.

Central Lobby

A place where Members of Parliament meet one another and their constituents, it comprises of a magnificent mosaic-covered vault and a beautiful tiled floor. The Central Tower is built over the Central Lobby, and it is here that the corridors from the Lords, Commons, and Westminster Halls meet.

The Lords Chamber

The Lords Chamber is the most extravagantly decorated room in the Palace of Westminster, London. It is predominantly decorated with furnishings in red and it is where three elements of Parliament (the Sovereign, the Lords and the Commons) meet. Stain glass windows show the coats of arms of peers and six mural paintings represent the spirits of Justice, Chivalry and Religion.

The Commons Chamber

Bombed and subsequently rebuilt after World War Two, the Commons Chamber looks very different to the Lords. It is a more moderate in style, furnished in a traditional green color. It is here that elected members of parliament meet.

St Stephen’s Hall

St Stephen’s Hall was used by the House of Commons from 1945 to 1950 during the rebuilding of the bombed Commons Chamber. It is a wonderful decorative hall that houses on either side of the room statues of famous parliamentarians as well as statues of early Kings and Queens of England. Ten stained glass windows show the arms of various parliamentary cities, and paintings on the walls depict famous events in British history.

Works of art in the Palace

The Palace of Westminster was designed to include statues, frescoes, murals and paintings to show the important events that have taken place at Parliament and depict its most famous members.

The King’s robing room is a glorious space, with wonderful gilded ceilings, an impressive fireplace and beautiful decorations. It is used officially on one day of the year, where the King puts on the state robes and Imperial Crown before officially opening Parliament

Royal Gallery

This room houses enormous works of art depicting the battles of Waterloo and Trafalgar as well as royal portraits.

How to get to the palace of Westminster

**hop on hop off bus tour**.

The London sightseeing bus tour is a hassle-free way of traveling around London to explore some of the most famous landmarks. This convenient hop-on hop-off service has three different routes, providing excellent means to visit the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben as well as other major attractions such as Buckingham Palace and St Paul’s Cathedral.

by Public transport

The nearest underground stop is Westminster Station which visitors can get to using the District, Circle or Jubilee lines. It’s literally right next to the Palace of Westminster, you can’t miss it as you exit the tube station! Just remember that this station tends to get packed full of people, so know where you are going. There are also loads of buses that stop in around the Palace of Westminster, we recommend you download the CityMapper app which will tell you the fastest route of getting to the site.

• Tour Information
• Plan your trip
• Changing of the Guard
• Buckingham Palace
• Westminster Abbey
• Trafalgar Square
• Private tours

THE ROYAL LONDON TOUR WITH CHANGING OF THE GUARD.

Enjoy unbeatable views of the world-famous Changing of the guard Ceremony, and even march along with the Queen's Guards for an unforgettable experience on this guided walking tour. Marvel at such iconic sights as Buckingham Palace, the Houses of Parliament and Trafalgar Square, whilst being enthralled by memorable tales of history's most famous Kings and Queens.

BOOK YOUR TICKETS TODAY

Ticket price.

Adults £18.00

TOUR DURATION

2 hours 15 mins

FANTASTIC SIGHTS

Be absorbed in the iconic sights and sounds of London’s Westminster. Walk the Mall, marvel at Buckingham Palace, and enjoy the inspiring music of the Royal Guards.

Great Value!

Featuring two great tours in one unforgettable experience, our tour is fantastic value for money! See all the sights of Westminster as well as the famous Changing of the Guard!

Private Tours

Why not have your own VIP tour guide for just you and your group on a Bespoke Private Tour? We can tailor your visit to suit your needs, just contact us for our private and group rates.

Tour highlights

What’s on the tour.

Buckingham Palace is arguably the most famous of all royal buildings world-wide. Administrative home of the British Monarchy, it has been the official London residence of the monarch since 1837.

No-where does pomp and ceremony better than the British, and a must-see whilst in London is a Changing of the Guard Ceremony. Depending on the day of the week, you'll see real troops marching down the famous Mall or the powerful horses of the household cavalry. You may be lucky enough to hear the inspiring music of an army band, or snap a selfie with a member of the Household Cavalry.

* Note that guard changes on each day are at the discretion of the British Army. They are dependent on day of the week, weather and ceremonial duties.

Westminster Abbey has been the site of every coronation since 1066 and has played host to numerous royal weddings and funerals - including the wedding and funeral of Queen Elizabeth II. The Abbey is one of the most significant religious buildings in the United Kingdom and is the resting place of over 3000 of the nation's most famous names, including 16 monarchs, 8 primes ministers, and scientists such as Sir Isaac Newton.

Winston Churchill is probably Great Britain's most famous prime minister, leading the country through the Second World War. The underground nerve centre of his government's war effort is now open to the public and is also the site of the Winston Churchill museum. On the tour you'll pass this world-class attraction, nested within the striking white buildings of Whitehall.

One of the most iconic sounds of London is the unmistakable bong of Big Ben as it echoes from the striking Houses of Parliament, officially known as the Palace of Westminster. A royal palace has sat on this site since the 11th century, with the 900 year old Westminster Hall being the oldest part of the building. Westminster Hall as witnessed some of the most significant events in British History, including the trials of William Wallace, Guy Fawkes and King Charles I, and the Lying-in-State of numerous notable figures such as Winston Churchill and Queen Elizabeth II. The present-day gothic design of Westminster Palace, designed by Sir Charles Barry, was completed in 1870 after the old Palace burnt down in 1834.

St James' Park includes the famous Mall and Horse Guards Parade, and is one of London's 8 Royal Parks. Originally bought by King Henry VIII in 1532, it was landscaped under the orders of King James I, when it was used to house exotic animals such as camels and crocodiles. Today the park still features ample wildlife, including colourful parakeets, friendly squirrels, and even a family of pelicans! This beautiful park is a tranquil oasis in the heart of London, nestled between Buckingham Palace and Westminster.

Trafalgar Square is the official center of London, and is the home of the famous Nelson's column and it's four guarding lions. A hive of activity with tourists, street performers and locals, Trafalgar Square is one of the most iconic public squares in London.

The Changing of the guard

Witness the World-Famous Changing of the Guard Ceremony with their dazzling displays and iconic uniforms. On Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays see the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace, complete with military band and marching troops. On Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays you will see the Changing of the Queen's Horse Guards at Horse Guards Parade, with their stunning horses and glistening uniforms.

** Note, the Changing of the Guard operates at the discretion of the British Army and can be changed or cancelled without notice, for example due to bad weather. This is beyond our control.

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Visit The Houses of Parliament

This post is about how to take a tour of the Houses of Parliament, as well as attend public debates. It covers security, dress codes, and other important tips.

And be sure to take one of our walking tours that cover the palace.

• Where is the Palace of Westminster?
• Public Tours
• Attending Public Debates
• Security and Dress Code
• Things to Do in London
• Other Royal Palaces
• Big Ben Tours

HOW TO GET TO THE PALACE OF WESTMINSTER

Be sure to check out our tour of Westminster and read how to get into Westminster Abbey for free .

The Houses of Parliament is located entirely within the Palace of Westminster, in the City of Westminster on the western bank of the River Thames.

We recommend using this Google map for directions to the palace from anywhere in London.

Due to its central location, it is within walking distance to many popular London attractions (see green circles above).

The closest Underground station is Westminster, which is served by the Jubilee, Circle and District lines.

It is also near the Embankment station, which is also serviced by the Bakerloo and Northern lines.

Be sure to read our post on navigating the London Underground and choosing the right travel pass .

If you are considering using one of the hop-on-hop-off buses while you are in London, note that all have stops at the Palace of Westminster.

We have a post that compares all of the various bus tour options in London.

HOUSES OF PARLIAMENT TOUR

One of the ways is to take a paid guided tour offered through the Houses of Parliament.

Reviews for this tour are mostly favorable, with an average of  4.5 out of 5 stars rating on TripAdvisor.

Some guests say that without a guided tour, you may feel overwhelmed by the amount of information that is on display. Many people note that the guides are very friendly and easy to understand.

Here is the information you need to know to plan your visit:

• You can pre-book tickets online or purchase them on the same day from the Ticket Office in front of Portcullis House on Victoria Embankment. The Ticket Office is open on Monday to Friday 10 am to 4 pm, and Saturday from 8.45 am to 4.45 pm.
• Guided tours run Saturdays until 28 September 2024 and also on few select dates in May and June 2024.
• Guided tours in English start every 15 to 20 minutes throughout the day between 10:15 am and 3:45 pm.
• Guided tours in French, German, Italian, and Spanish are offered every tour day but at set times.
• Tours run about 1 hour and 30 minutes

Guided Tour Prices -

• Adults: £32
• Concessions (over 60s, students, members of the UK Armed Forces): £26
• Children (5-15 years): £16
• Children (under 5): Free, but will require a ticket for admission. ( Note : This tour is not recommended for young children due to the length of the tour and the amount of walking)
• Disabled visitors: Standard prices as listed above (escorts have free entry but will require a ticket for admission)
• Note: Residents of the UK can visit for free by writing to your MP to request a free tour which will be delivered by an ‘in-house’ Parliament guide.

For any other information visit the official  guided tour page for more information .

In addition to the guided tour provided by the Houses of Parliament, this company also offers exclusive access to the site on two separate tours.

Their main outing includes a tour of both the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey, allowing you to see and learn about both landmarks at the same time with special access to each.

Alternatively, you may also want to consider their after-hours Houses of Parliament tour which makes it easy to avoid the crowds.

Houses of Parliament & Westminster Abbey Tour ( affiliate disclosure )

Note: The tour is currently unavailable as of March 2024.

• £89/Adults, Students | £84/Children
• Duration: 3 ½ – 4 hours
• Hours: 9 am, 1:30 pm
• Includes Westminster Abbey admission.
• Includes Houses of Parliament admission.

Behind the Scenes After Hours Parliament Tour ( affiliate disclosure )

• £59/Adults, Students | £55/Children
• Duration: 2 hours
• Hours: 4 pm
• Includes after-hours Houses of Parliament admission.
• Includes tour of the House of Commons.
• Includes tour of the House of Lords.

Reviews for Take Walks are generally very positive, with most customers indicating they offer top-of-the-line tours.

Many guests feel that their guides are very knowledgeable and friendly, willing to answer any and all questions you may have.

Self-Guided Audio Tours

After years of offering guided tours of the palace, there is now an  audio tour available to the public .

Guests are provided with headphones and guided along the line route whilst listening to the history and current politics of the Houses of Parliament.

Important figures in Parliament help provide some of the commentaries on the audio guide so guests will get to listen to people such as Black Rod and the Speaker of the House of Commons.

Reviews on TripAdvisor indicate that these self-guided audio tours are pretty darn good.

Guests who enjoyed this tour suggest that it is the best option for those who wish to experience the Houses of Parliament at their own pace which is nice if you’re hoping to take your time.

• Audio tours follow the same schedule as the guided tours above.
• Audio tours last 75 minutes and are available in many languages: English, French, German, Italian, Spanish, Russian, Mandarin and Brazilian Portuguese, and Welsh.
• There is also a separate audio guide aimed at children aged 7 - 12.

Audio Guide Tour Prices

• Adults: £25
• Concessions (over 60s, students, members of the UK Armed Forces): £18
• Children (5-15 years): One child is free with each paying adult, but will require a ticket for admission, £8 for each additional child
• Children (under 5): Free, but will require a ticket for admission
• Click  here to book your tour of the Houses of Parliament!

If you can't make it to Parliament for a tour, then view the video clips below.

They cover tours of the House of Commons, and the House of Lords as well as parts of the Palace of Westminster, such as Westminster Hall.

Visit the Public Galleries for the Houses of Common and Lords For Free

For visitors who are interested in witnessing the world's oldest democratic body in action without the cost of a public tour, it is possible to do so by sitting in one or both of the public galleries.

All the legislative work of the Houses of Parliament takes place in either the House of Commons or the House of Lords - and both of these chambers have sections that are open to the public.

Video tour of the House of Commons.  Click here for a tour of the House of Lords .

The House of Commons Public Gallery is located behind bullet-proof glass and visitors are escorted up the back stairs of the House of Commons to sit on the balcony and observe the debates.

The House of Lords Public Gallery is also up a set of back stairs but this Gallery has no glass which means guests are actually sitting on a balcony inside the House of Lords itself.

Throughout both chambers, there are microphones built into the benches to bring the sound of the MPs and Lords working into the Galleries.

Sitting in the Galleries of both the Commons and the Lords is entirely free. In fact, taking in the debates is #3 on our list of top 10 free things to do in London .

Access is only accessible when either House is in session.

When Parliament is not sitting, the Galleries are closed to the public and whenever Parliament is in session (even as late as 11:00 pm) guests are allowed inside.

Occasionally you may find that there is a queue to get in, and visitors are put into a first-come-first-serve system inside the Palace.

This is particularly true for Wednesday mornings when the Prime Minister addresses the House of Commons.

Visitor access to the galleries, while the Prime Minister is speaking, is limited to ticket holders only, who obtain their tickets by contacting their Member of Parliament.

For this reason, it's advisable for most to avoid visiting the galleries at this time.

To gain access, go to the main entrance at Cromwell Green (see map link and the image below) and speak to the Visitor Assistants (wearing gold and blue) outside, who will let you know if the Houses are in session, what they are debating, and how long the wait may be.

To find out which days Parliament will be sitting, simply visit their website to plan your trip: www.Parliament.uk

Also note: Children under 5 are not allowed into the Public Gallery and older children can be denied access if the doorkeepers feel this necessary.

SECURITY AND DRESS CODE

The visitor entry point to the Palace of Westminster is located at 3 St. Margaret's Street ( map ), just across from St. Margaret's Church.

The closest Underground Station is Westminster, which services the Jubilee, District, and Circle lines.

Visitors coming to the Houses of Parliament - either for the tours or to attend the debates - are subject to tight security screening.

Described as "airport-style security" guests must pass through metal detectors and have all bags x-rayed and searched.

Guests will then have their photographs taken and issued a temporary pass which must be worn at all times and marks them out as visitors.

Certain items are restricted when visiting the Houses of Parliament and visitors should be aware that possession of these materials may see them prevented from entering.

In general, most lists of banned items on airplanes match with the list of banned items in Parliament. So sharp objects like scissors or blades of any sort are forbidden as are some aerosol sprays.

You can get more information on what's prohibited here.

Guests will also need to leave their belongings at the Doorkeepers before entering any of the Public Galleries as mobile phones, cameras, and any other personal effects are banned in the Galleries.

There is no dress code for the tour through the Palace of Westminster. Although we do recommend choosing inoffensive attire, you are pretty much free to wear whatever is comfortable.

Big Ben and Other Nearby Attractions

There is a lot to see in the area. We have a useful post on things to do in Westminster , but below are some of the highlights.

• Trafalgar Square
• Changing of the Guard
• Buckingham Palace
• 10 Downing Street
• Westminster Abbey
• The Churchill War Rooms
• The Horse Guards
• St. James's Palace

OUR TOURS THAT COVER THE PALACE

**Tip:   Come along on one of our  Westminster Tours !

The tour finishes at the Palace of Westminster and your guide will show you the facade of the Palace during your walk and will point you in the right direction for your visit to Parliament once the tour has finished.

On Saturdays, you can buy a ticket for a guided tour of the Palace.

During the week, your tour will finish in the perfect time for you to get a space in the Public Gallery.

Also, check out how to get into Westminster Abbey for free .

When it comes to ratings and reviews on TripAdvisor , it’s clear that a lot of guests have enjoyed our Westminster tour. Our London service rated 5 out of 5 stars.  

Reviewers mention that our guides are very friendly and informative, which is definitely an experience we strive to provide. One word keeps popping up more than any other among these reviews: historic.

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The 5 Best Sightseeing Tours of Buckingham Palace

O n a visit to London , some of the top attractions are linked to the royal family. But nothing is quite as iconic as a visit to the one of the three official residences of the monarchy – Buckingham Palace . While it's only open to the public on select dates, you can relish in its beauty from the regal gates, snap a selfie and catch a Changing the Guard ceremony.

How to Tour Buckingham Palace

For about 10 weeks every summer (select dates from July 11 to Sept. 29, 2024), Buckingham Palace opens its elaborate gates, welcoming visitors to explore its lavish State Rooms, grounds and Royal Collection artworks. The Royal Mews is also open to visitors from March to October, showcasing the Royal Family's real working stables and ornate, historic carriages – including the Gold State Coach used for Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Coronation in 2022.

If you aren't here at the right time, fear not; this extravagant, 18th-century royal residence is just as impressive from the outside, making it worth a visit any time of year. Check online for a current schedule of the Changing the Guard ceremony – when the red-and-black-clad Royal Guard marches toward the palace, accompanied by striking military music – and see a tradition that's been running for more than 300 years. Combine it with explorations in the surrounding area of Westminster to see London at its most quintessential.

You can explore all of this independently, of course – but if you're looking to dig a little deeper, hear about the king's coronation and uncover local secrets, consider a guided London tour . Insider experts can point out the best photo spots, take you to the must-see sights and show you the ins and outs of the area, while sharing knowledge of the country's royal history along the way.

There are tons of options out there, so where do you start? Based on local knowledge and traveler review sites, here are some of the most highly rated tours.

Changing of the Guard Walking Tour

Price: From $13

Duration: 2 to 3 hours

Standout perk: Witness the pomp of the iconic Changing the Guard ceremony.

Watch the Royal Guard march toward Buckingham Palace as you witness this historic, quintessentially British spectacle on a tour of Westminster's highlights. Accompanied by a military band, you'll see the Old Guard (soldiers on duty) switch to the New Guard as they arrive at the palace from Wellington Barracks. Your guide will explain which regiment is which, before taking you on a guided walking tour past other world-famous, attractions, including Big Ben, Clarence House, the Houses of Parliament , St James's Palace and Westminster Abbey .

Recent travelers gave high ratings to the tour, saying guides were able to take them to the best photo spots for the ceremony while offering a wealth of historical and entertaining insight.

Tours leave at 10 a.m. and depart from the Victoria Palace Theatre. The outings end at Parliament Square.

Local tip: Look at the Horse Guards Clock on the Horse Guards Parade – the official entrance to Buckingham Palace and St James's Palace – to see a dark stain above the 2 (II, in Roman numerals). It marks the time King Charles I was executed outside the Palace of Whitehall in 1649, after being charged with treason.

Check prices & availability on:

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Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle Tour

Price: From $161

Duration: 8.5 hours

Standout perk: Get a rare chance to explore the State Rooms with Buckingham Palace tickets, and tick off two of the United Kingdom's grandest royal residences in one day.

This twin-castle tour offers the opportunity to enter Buckingham Palace and see its State Rooms, Royal Collection artwork and other treasures, with commentary from an audio guide. After you've toured the palace, you'll travel by coach about 25 miles west of London to Windsor Castle – the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world, and the family home of the monarchy for more than 900 years. Explore the castle's lavish State Apartments and grounds, and visit St George's Chapel – the burial place of Queen Elizabeth II alongside many other monarchs, and the spot where Prince Harry married Meghan Markle.

Recent travelers said the tour was a great opportunity to see inside both palaces. Several commented on the extensive art collection at Buckingham Palace, and many enjoyed hearing insights from the guides, although some complained about long lines.

The tour takes place from July through September on select Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays, and leaves from Victoria Coach Station at 7:45 a.m.

Local tip: Windsor Castle has its own Changing the Guard ceremony, as well as its own extensive art collection. The ceremony takes place at 11 a.m. on select days of the week.

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Best of London Tour Including Tower of London and Changing of the Guard

Price: From $144; with optional London Eye or Harrods cream tea for an additional fee

Duration: 9 hours

Standout perk: You'll see many of London's key attractions in one day, and enjoy a river cruise thrown in for good measure.

If you want to combine a visit to see Buckingham Palace's Changing the Guard ceremony with stops at several other London spots, this is a great choice. The full-day trip begins at the UNESCO listed Tower of London where you'll have the chance to see the crown jewels.

From here, you'll visit Buckingham Palace to witness the famous pomp and pageantry of the ceremony and get the chance to admire the palace's impressive architecture from the outside. The day includes a tour of the elaborate St. Paul's Cathedral (not available on Sundays), before embarking on a boat tour of the Thames, passing key attractions including Tower Bridge and Shakespeare's Globe. The day also includes a photo stop at Westminster Abbey, where Prince William and Kate Middleton married in 2011, and a brief walking tour of Parliament Square. Travelers can choose to add a ride on the famous London Eye observation wheel (or opt for a quintessentially British cream tea at Harrods instead).

Recent travelers loved the tour and praised the guides as highly knowledgeable and entertaining. Many were impressed with how much they saw in a day and said it gave them a great introduction to London (although it's worth noting a few felt there was quite a bit of walking involved).

Tours leave from Victoria Coach Station at 7:45 a.m. and finish at the London Eye.

Local tip: If you fancy delving deeper into the Tower of London in your own time, book a ticket to see the Ceremony of the Keys. Dating back seven centuries, this nightly ceremony is when the castle gets locked up for the night, with a special exchange between the sentry and Yeoman Warder taking place at 9:30 p.m. between the atmospheric battlements – both eerie and magical.

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London: Explore the Parks and Palaces on a Morning Bike Tour

Price: From $37

Duration: 3.5 hours

Standout perk: Get active on two wheels, and combine a Buckingham Palace stop with a visit to Kensington Palace and other royal sights.

This half-day guided cycling tour is a great option to get active on your London trip. You'll start at Kensington Gardens – the home of Kensington Palace, where Princess Diana lived with the now King Charles, and Queen Victoria's birthplace. From here, pedal to the Royal Albert Hall to check out this elaborate concert hall, opened by Queen Victoria in 1871. Afterward, cycle through Hyde Park and on to Green Park to reach Buckingham Palace, where your guide will regale you with little-known stories about the palace. Continue on to Trafalgar Square, Westminster Abbey, the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben as you take in some of the capital's key highlights, before returning to the Royal Parks.

Recent travelers raved about the tour and were impressed by the guides' knowledge. Many enjoyed the small group size and said the cycling was a good, leisurely pace, with plenty to see along the way, and iced tea and snacks included as a bonus.

The tour leaves from outside the main entrance at Hilton London Hyde Park. The recommended minimum age is 9 – you can pre-book junior bikes and child seats. While the bicycle and helmet for use during the tour are included, attraction entry fees are additional.

Local tip: If you've got time after the tour, it's well worth exploring Kensington Palace a bit more. Admire the elaborate, Georgian-era King's Staircase and the King's State Gallery with its fine art collection, see the Queen's State Apartments where Mary II would come to relax or welcome guests, and visit the Sunken Garden, once a favorite spot of Princess Diana's. After, enjoy afternoon tea or lunch at the Kensington Palace Pavilion amid the gardens.

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The Premier Classic London: Private 4-Hour Tour in a Black Cab

Price: From $482

Duration: 4 hours

Standout perk: You'll see many of London's must-see attractions, and as it's a private tour, you can tailor the trip to your liking.

If you're after a private tour, this half-day trip in a classic London black cab is just the ticket.

You can choose to align your visit to Buckingham Palace with a Changing the Guard ceremony, and you'll get expert commentary from your personal taxi driver, who's also a registered tour guide. Alongside the palace, you'll pass must-see points including the Houses of Parliament, Downing Street, St James's Palace, the Tower of London, Piccadilly Circus, Shakespeare's Globe, Borough Market and Covent Garden , with options to stop along the way.

Recent travelers loved the tour and said guides were able to tailor the trip, stopping at spots both on and off the tourist trail and offering plenty of historical insight.

Your driver-guide can pick you up and drop you off at your hotel; or a central London location.

Local tip: Make a stop at Borough Market to try some of the best food in the city, with more than 100 stalls offering everything from Persian to Italian, alongside plenty of fresh produce.

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Japanese emperor to reconnect with the River Thames in state visit meant to bolster ties with UK

Danica Kirka

Associated Press

Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved

Emperor Naruhito is saluted by a member of the honour guard as he and Empress Masako arrive at Stansted Airport, England, Saturday, June 22, 2024, ahead of a state visit. The state visit begins Tuesday, when King Charles III and Queen Camilla will formally welcome the Emperor and Empress before taking a ceremonial carriage ride to Buckingham Palace. (AP Photo/Kin Cheung)

LONDON – Before Emperor Naruhito of Japan attends a banquet hosted by King Charles III , lays a wreath at Westminster Abbey or tours one of Britain’s premier biomedical research institutes, he'll kick off this week’s trip to the U.K. by visiting a site that has special meaning for him: The Thames Barrier.

While the retractable flood control gates on the River Thames don’t top most lists of must-see tourist sights, the itinerary underscores the emperor’s fascination with the waterway that is the throbbing heart of London.

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That interest was born 40 years ago when Naruhito studied 18th-century commerce on the river as a graduate student at the University of Oxford. But those two years, chronicled in his memoir “The Thames and I,” also forged a special fondness for Britain and its people. The future emperor got a chance to live outside the palace walls, seeing the kindness of strangers who rushed to help when he dropped his purse, scattering coins across a shop floor, and experiencing traditions like the great British pub crawl.

“It would be impossible in Japan to go to a place where hardly anyone would know who I was,’’ Naruhito wrote. “It is really important and precious to have the opportunity to be able to go privately at one’s own pace where one wants.’’

Naruhito and the Empress Masako, who studied at Oxford a few years after her husband, returned to the U.K. on Saturday for a weeklong stay combining the glitter and ceremony of a state visit with four days of less formal events that will allow the royal couple to revisit their personal connections to Britain.

The visit comes at a time when the U.K. is seeking to bolster ties with Japan as it aims to be the most influential European nation in the Indo-Pacific region, said John Nilsson-Wright, the head of the Japan and Koreas program at the Centre for Geopolitics at the University of Cambridge. In October 2020, Britain touted an economic partnership with Japan as the first major international trade agreement it had struck since leaving the European Union earlier that year.

“The U.K.-Japan relationship is hugely important. … It’s based on shared common experience. It’s based also on the affinity between our two peoples,’’ Nilsson-Wright said. “Britain and Japan can act as a source of stability and, hopefully, mutual reassurance at a time when political change is so potentially destabilizing.”

The trip, originally planned for 2020, was intended to be the emperor’s first overseas visit after he ascended the Chrysanthemum Throne in 2019. But it was delayed by the COVID-19 pandemic. He later attended Queen Elizabeth II's funeral.

The state visit begins Tuesday, when Charles and Queen Camilla will formally welcome the emperor and empress before they take a ceremonial carriage ride to Buckingham Palace. Naruhito will also lay a wreath at the tomb of the unknown soldier in Westminster Abbey then return to the palace for a state banquet.

But before the pomp and circumstance begins, Naruhito will visit The Thames Barrier, a series of retractable steel gates that protect London from flooding while allowing ships to continue navigating the river. After the state visit, he and his wife will have time to tour their old colleges at Oxford.

It was at Merton College that the future emperor, who was born Hironomiya Naruhito, was known simply as Hiro because it was easier for faculty and students to remember the nickname (and because the prince liked the sound of it), he wrote in “The Thames and I.”

One of his greatest joys at Merton was to go to the Middle Common Room, a meeting place for graduate students, to drink coffee and talk with other students after lunch.

“These moments, with my fellow students, brief as they were, were very important for me,’’ Naruhito wrote.

Britain in the 1980s was a revelation to Naruhito because it seemed to respect the past even as it embraced the future, he said, remembering the peaceful co-existence of scholars in traditional caps and gowns with young people wearing punk rock garb.

“I did not feel that was out of the ordinary,’’ he said. “It seemed to me that both reflected the spirit of the place. This was, after all, a country which produced the Beatles and the miniskirt. I felt that while the British attach importance to old traditions, they also have the ability to innovate.’’

Naruhito also wrote about the novelty of walking through the streets of Oxford without being noticed, of spending hours in the local records office doing his academic research and of having the chance to do his own shopping and other mundane chores that most people take for granted.

And he remembered climbing a hill northeast of the city just to take in the view.

“It was best toward sunset,’’ he wrote. “I can never forget the moment when the silhouettes of the spires of Oxford one by one caught the evening light and seemed to float above the mists. This mystical sight, which has aroused so much admiration, is called Oxford’s dreaming spires.’’

But behind it all there was always the River Thames, which flows southeast from Oxford to London before emptying into the North Sea.

Naruhito began studying river commerce as a boy when Japan’s roads and rivers offered a glimpse of travel and freedom outside the confines of the palace. So when he arrived in Oxford, it was logical to study the Thames.

Looking back at the research papers he wrote 40 years ago, he’s flooded with nostalgia, Naruhito told reporters in Tokyo before returning to Britain.

“The memories of my time with the Thames come back to me,’’ he said. “The list goes on and on, including my hard work in collecting historical materials … the beautiful scenery around me that healed me from my fatigue from research, and the days I jogged along the river.’’

Associated Press writers Mari Yamaguchi and Mayuko Ono in Tokyo contributed.

Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.

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Prince William, Prince George and Princess Charlotte attend London Eras Tour

Taylor Swift kicked off her London stop of the Eras Tour on Friday night.

Prince William and two of his children spent his birthday joining in on the Swiftie fun.

On Friday, Prince William and his kids, Prince George and Princess Charlotte, attended night one of Taylor Swift's London Eras Tour , ABC News learned.

MORE: Prince William turns 42: See a new pic taken by Kate Middleton

The news comes hours after a sweet photo by Princess Kate , was shared on Instagram on Friday on the couple's official Instagram post for Prince William's birthday featuring William and his three kids jumping in the air.

The friendship between Prince William and Swift goes way back.

In 2013, the two took the stage at a London fundraising gala with Jon Bon Jovi where they belted out "Livin' On a Prayer."

Prince William opened up about the moment in 2021 during an episode of Apple Fitness+'s "Time to Walk," an audio fitness experience in which a guest host walked listeners through a location that is meaningful to them.

"To this day, I still do not know what came over me," Prince William said at the time about his moment on stage with Swift and Bon Jovi. "Honestly, even now I'm cringing at what happened next, and I don't understand why I gave in. But frankly, if Taylor Swift looks you in the eye, touches your arm, and says, 'Come with me...' I got up like a puppy and went, 'Yeah, OK, that seems like a great idea. I'll follow you."

Taylor Swift kicked off her London tour stop at Wembley Stadium on Friday night.

Taylor Swift announces end of Eras Tour during milestone 100th show in Liverpool

During her first show in London, photos show that Swift performed her "Fearless" set in a black and gold fringe dress. She also wore an oversized, black, pinstriped blazer with her iconic over-the-knee boots, which she typically wears for her "Lover" set.

The singer is slated to deliver two more shows there with Paramore, Mette and Griff as her opening acts, before taking over Aviva Stadium in Dublin, Ireland, next weekend.

See photos from her night one of her London Eras Tour below.

Editor’s Note: This story has been updated to reflect new reporting that Prince Louis did not attend the Eras Tour.

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The Duke of Westminster's Wedding Is Set to Be the Social Event of the Season

Here are all the details

British royals and aristocrats alike are coming together this week for the society event of the season: the Duke of Westminster’s wedding.

Hugh Grosvenor, a British aristocrat and head of property empire Grosvenor Group, is marrying his girlfriend of two years, Olivia Henson, who will become the Duchess of Westminster.

The lavish ceremony, which is being referred to by many as the most royal non-royal wedding of the year, will take place on Friday, June 7, at the historic Chester Cathedral in Chester, England.

William is serving as an usher at Grosvenor’s wedding, and George is expected to be a pageboy. Harry, however, will not be present for the nuptials, as he feels his attendance—particularly amidst his estrangement from his brother —would be complicated and pull focus from the happy occasion, People reported.

A source told the outlet that the Duke of Sussex declined the invitation as a part of an “understanding between the two friends,” and he sends “his love and support and admiration for the couple.”

King Charles III will also be skipping the big wedding, as he has an engagement in Normandy the day prior, where he will lead commemorations for the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landing . We can also expect to miss Princess Kate, who is understandably lying low from public duties as she continues her cancer treatment .

Rosa Sanchez is the senior news editor at Harper's Bazaar, working on news as it relates to entertainment, fashion, and culture. Previously, she was a news editor at ABC News and, prior to that, a managing editor of celebrity news at American Media. She has also written features for Rolling Stone, Teen Vogue, Forbes, and The Hollywood Reporter, among other outlets. 

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Prince William Takes Kids to Taylor Swift's Eras Tour Concert for His Birthday

Prince william celebrated his 42nd birthday at taylor swift's eras tour performance at wembley stadium june 21 alongside children prince george, 10, princess charlotte, 9, and prince louis, 6..

Prince William  is celebrating like it's his birthday, every day.

The Prince of Wales marked his 42nd birthday with a very special outing as he took his children  Prince George , 10,  Princess Charlotte , 9, and  Prince Louis , 6, to see Taylor Swift   perform at London's Wembley Stadium June 21, royal reporter  Roya Nikkhah  confirmed on  X .

William's wife  Kate Middleton  did not appear to be at the show alongside her family, although  she did have a sweet birthday message  for her husband of 13 years earlier in the day.

"Happy birthday Papa," she posted on Instagram, alongside a photo of William and his children jumping on the beach, "we all love you so much! Cx."

And while Kate has largely stayed out of the public eye since  sharing her cancer diagnosis in March , the 42-year-old did join the royal family for  her first public appearance at the Trooping of the Colours  ceremony on June 15. The Princess of Wales—donning a black-and-white Jenny Packham dress and Philip Treacy hat—appeared with her family on the Buckingham Palace balcony as they watched the Royal Air Force fly past.

As for William, this is far from the first time he and Taylor have crossed paths. In fact, Miss Americana and the real-life prince previously took the stage together alongside  Jon Bon Jovi  for a performance of "Livin' on a Prayer" at a charity event in 2013.  And as Taylor explained the following year , it was truly a wild moment.

"Yeah, it was insane," she said, "and I was very nervous for the whole thing because it was at Kensington Palace and it was my first royal encounter of sorts."

According to the 34-year-old, before Jon started to sing, he pointed to William, "and said something like, 'I hear you like to do this at karaoke night, karaoke boy.'"

"He starts the song and Prince William looks over at me and says, 'I don't remember it now. It's all gone now. I don't remember the song now.' Kinda freaking out a little bit," she continued. "He just looks at me and is like, 'You gotta go with me' and I was like, 'OK,' and we got up there and started singing 'Livin' on a Prayer.' Like, I died."

Unfortunately William did not appear to take the stage at Wembley Stadium during the Eras Tour, but the royals were in good company, as Taylor's boyfriend  Travis Kelce  was  also spotted in the audience , alongside his brother  Jason Kelce  and his wife  Kylie Kelce .

For more royal updates, keep reading.

Kate Middleton Shares Chemotherapy Update

Nearly three months after sharing her cancer diagnosis, the Princess of Wales said that she's "making good progress" with chemotherapy , though there are  "good days and bad days" amid her health journey .

"On those bad days you feel weak, tired and you have to give in to your body resting," Kate wrote on Instagram June 14 . "But on the good days, when you feel stronger, you want to make the most of feeling well."

She added, "My treatment is ongoing and will be for a few more months. On the days I feel well enough, it is a joy to engage with school life, spend personal time on the things that give me energy and positivity, as well as starting to do a little work from home."

New Role for Prince William

On May 13, King Charles III bestowed the title of Colonel-in-Chief of the Army Air Corps to his oldest son, sparking controversy as many royal watchers believed the title would be more suited for Prince Harry , who trained and served in the military branch.

Kin Charles III Returns to Public Duties

On April 26, nearly three months after sharing his cancer diagnosis, Buckingham Palace announced that Charles will return to public-facing duties . 

Queen Camilla Attends Royal Maundy Service

The queen consort attended the Royal Maundy Service on March 28 in place of King Charles III, making her the first spouse of the Monarch to continue the ancient tradition .

Kate Middleton Shares Cancer Diagnosis

In a March 22 video message, the Princess of Wales shared that she'd been diagnosed with cancer after undergoing abdominal surgery in January.

"It was thought that my condition was non-cancerous. The surgery was successful," she said before noting that tests after the operation found cancer had been present. "My medical team therefore advised that I should undergo a course of preventative chemotherapy and I am now in the early stages of that treatment."

Kate Middleton Apologizes for Edited Family Photo Controversy

After photo agencies pulled the picture Kensington Palace shared of Kate since having her abdominal surgery on March 10, the Princess of Wales addressed claims the photo was doctored. 

"Like many amateur photographers, I do occasionally experiment with editing," she tweeted on March 11. "I wanted to express my apologies for any confusion the family photograph we shared yesterday caused. I hope everyone celebrating had a very happy Mother's Day. C."

Lady Kitty Spencer Privately Welcomes Baby

Princess Diana 's niece  celebrated Mother's Day in the U.K. by sharing she and her husband Michael Lewis privately welcomed their first baby.

“It’s the joy of my life to be your mummy, little one. I love you unconditionally," she captioned her March 10 Instagram post . "Happy Mother’s Day to those who celebrate today."

Queen Camilla Takes a Break

After keeping up her full slate of engagements in the wake of her husband's cancer diagnosis, the palace cleared Camilla's schedule.

The Times pointed out March 2 that the 76-year-old didn't have any engagements on her calendar until March 11, when she'd be due at Westminster Abbey to observe Commonwealth Day.

Thomas Kensington Dies at 45

The husband of Lady Gabriella Windsor and ex-boyfriend of Pippa Middleton , was found dead Feb. 25. Days later, a coroner's inquest found that he died by suicide.

King Charles Diagnosed With Cancer

While King Charles III was in the hospital for his benign prostate enlargement procedure, the royal family member was diagnosed with cancer .

"His Majesty has today commenced a schedule of regular treatments, during which time he has been advised by doctors to postpone public-facing duties," Buckingham Palace said Feb. 5. "Throughout this period, His Majesty will continue to undertake State business and official paperwork as usual.The King is grateful to his medical team for their swift intervention, which was made possible thanks to his recent hospital procedure. He remains wholly positive about his treatment and looks forward to returning to full public duty as soon as possible."

Sarah Ferguson Is Diagnosed With a Second Type of Cancer

The Duchess of York's rep said in a statement on Jan. 21 that Sarah was recently diagnosed with malignant melanoma, an aggressive form of skin cancer. Several months prior, she underwent a single mastectomy to treat breast cancer.

Queen Margrethe II of Denmark Abdicates the Throne

On Jan. 14, Queen Margrethe II of Denmark made history as she officially abdicated the throne, handing the crown over to her son, now known as King Frederik the 10th . 

Kate Middleton Is Hospitalized

Kensington Palace announced on Jan. 17 that Kate Middleton underwent planned abdominal surgery and was set to remain in the hospital for 10 to 14 days.

"Based on the current medical advice," the Palace said, "she is unlikely to return to public duties until after Easter."

Prince William Adjusting His Schedule

Amid Kate's recovery, Prince William postponed a number of engagements as he supported his family, including the couple's three children, Prince George , Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis .

King Charles III Undergoing Treatment

Shortly after Kate's hospitalization was made public, Buckingham Palace shared that Charles "has sought treatment for an enlarged prostate."

"His Majesty's condition is benign and he will attend hospital next week for a corrective procedure," the statement added. "The King’s public engagements will be postponed for a short period of recuperation."

Luxembourg Welcomes a New Baby

Princess Claire and Prince Felix of Luxembourg welcomed son Balthazar Felix Karl on Jan. 7, the first royal baby of the New Year!

Watch CBS News

Prince William, George and Charlotte attend Taylor Swift's concert in London: "A great evening"

By Lucia Suarez Sang

Updated on: June 22, 2024 / 7:58 PM EDT / CBS News

Prince William ended his birthday celebrations by taking his two oldest children to the Taylor Swift concert in London on Friday night.

The 42-year-old royal , Prince George and Princess Charlotte joined thousands of fans at Wembley Stadium during the first night of the Eras Tour stop in London.

Swift, 34, posed for a selfie with the three royals, as seen in a photograph shared on the Prince and Princess of Wales' official social media accounts.

"Thank you [Taylor Swift] for a great evening," the posts said.

Thank you @taylorswift13 for a great evening! #LondonTSTheErastour pic.twitter.com/NFSi8hAl1o — The Prince and Princess of Wales (@KensingtonRoyal) June 22, 2024

The singer also shared a separate selfie with the royals that also included her boyfriend Travis Kelce.

"Happy Bday M8! London shows are off to a splendid start," she captioned the post.

Happy Bday M8! London shows are off to a splendid start 🇬🇧🇺🇸🤝 @KensingtonRoyal pic.twitter.com/VlD6V0PiEL — Taylor Swift (@taylorswift13) June 22, 2024

According to Kensington Palace, the photos were taken ahead of her concert. Catherine, Princess of Wales, who is undergoing treatment for an unspecified cancer, stayed home with the couple's youngest, Prince Louis.

Princess Kate has remained largely out of the public eye since announcing her diagnosis earlier this year. She made her first public appearance in months on June 15 at the Trooping the Colour parade , the annual celebration that marks King Charles III's official birthday. The event did not signify a return to public duties, with future engagements depending on when she feels able and under the guidance of her medical team, according to the palace. 

Kensington Palace released a new photo of William and his three children Friday to celebrate the future British monarch's 42nd birthday.

The image included the message: "Happy birthday Papa, we all love you so much!" It was signed "Cx," an abbreviation for the Princess of Wales, who's often referred to as Princess Kate.

The palace said the image was taken by Kate in southeast England in May.

Earlier Friday, Swift was welcomed to London by the royal guard when the band played "Shake It Off" in front of Buckingham Palace.

Can't stop, won't stop groovin' 🫡🥁🎺 @BritishArmy | @ArmyInLondon | @CorpsArmyMusic pic.twitter.com/JYrdCaG5gR — The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) June 21, 2024

"Can't stop, won't stop groovin'" the royal family captioned a video of the performance on social media.

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• Prince William Duke of Cambridge
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Lucia Suarez Sang is an associate managing editor at CBSNews.com. Previously, Lucia was the director of digital content at FOX61 News in Connecticut and has previously written for outlets including FoxNews.com, Fox News Latino and the Rutland Herald.

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Japan’s emperor says he looks forward to deepening ties with Britain’s royals during UK visit

Japan’s Emperor Naruhito speaks during a press conference at the Imperial Palace in advance of his visit to Britain, Wednesday, June 19, 2024, in Tokyo. (AP Photo/Eugene Hoshiko, Pool)

Japan’s Emperor Naruhito attends a press conference at the Imperial Palace in advance of his visit to Britain, Wednesday, June 19, 2024, in Tokyo. (AP Photo/Eugene Hoshiko, Pool)

Japan’s Emperor Naruhito, center, behind, attends a press conference at the Imperial Palace in advance of his visit to Britain, Wednesday, June 19, 2024, in Tokyo. (AP Photo/Eugene Hoshiko, Pool)

Japan’s Emperor Naruhito, center, speaks during a press conference at the Imperial Palace in advance of his visit to Britain, Wednesday, June 19, 2024, in Tokyo. (AP Photo/Eugene Hoshiko, Pool)

Japan’s Emperor Naruhito walks to address a press conference at the Imperial Palace in advance of his visit to Britain, Wednesday, June 19, 2024, in Tokyo. (AP Photo/Eugene Hoshiko, Pool)

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TOKYO (AP) — Japan’s Emperor Naruhito said Wednesday he is “delighted” to finally be able to visit Britain after the trip was delayed by several years due to the COVID-19 pandemic. He said he looks forward to rekindling his friendship with the British royal family and exploring Oxford, where he studied about 40 years ago.

Naruhito and his wife, Empress Masako, will make a weeklong visit to Britain starting Saturday. The trip was originally planned for 2020 at the invitation of the late Queen Elizabeth II as the first of his overseas visits after his ascension to the Chrysanthemum Throne in 2019.

“I’m truly delighted to be able to make a visit to Britain this time,” Naruhito told reporters ahead of the June 22-29 trip. The emperor said he regretted that they could not make the trip while Queen Elizabeth was alive.

“Through our upcoming visit, I would like to reflect on the long history of exchanges fostered between Japan and Britain,” Naruhito said. He hoped to nurture the friendship with King Charles III and Queen Camilla and other members of Britain’s royal family, and boost relations between the two sides through meetings and exchanges.

Naruhito thanked King Charles III for accommodating the visit while he recovers from cancer treatment. He wished both Charles and Catherine, the Princess of Wales , who is also undergoing cancer treatment, a speedy recovery.

Japan’s imperial family has had close relations with Britain’s royal family for three generations starting from his grandfather, late Emperor Hirohito.

Naruhito acknowledged that there had been difficult times when Japan and Britain fought on opposing sides during World War II, but he said Japan has since focused on peace and prosperity on the global stage. Japan and Britain have developed strong ties in areas from the economy to science and technology and culture, he said.

The trip includes a visit to Oxford University, where both he and Masako studied separately before their marriage. Naruhito said he looks forward to returning to Oxford and exploring the city with his wife together for the first time.

Naruhito researched the 18th-century Thames River transport system while at Merton College from 1983 to 1985.

The emperor recalled the late queen serving him tea at Buckingham Palace when he visited London in 1983. He also fondly remembered being invited to a barbecue with the queen and other royals, and going fly fishing in Scotland with then-Prince Charles.

During his upcoming trip, Naruhito will visit the Thames Barrier, pay respects to the grave of the Unknown Warrior in Westminster Abby, lay flowers at the tombs of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip at the King George VI Chapel in Windsor, and visit the Royal Botanic Gardens in Kew, among other activities.

The couple has a relatively relaxed schedule in part due to considerations for Masako, who is still recovering from the stress-induced conditions she developed soon after she giving birth to the couple’s only child, Princess Aiko and amid pressure to have a son to continue Japan’s male-only imperial succession.

History | Today in History: Queen Elizabeth II crowned at…

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History | Today in History: Queen Elizabeth II crowned at age 27

The Archbishop of Canterbury holds the ritual crown of England, the crown of St. Edward, over the head of Queen Elizabeth II, prior to the actual crowning at the coronation ceremony in Westminster Abbey in London on June 2, 1953.

Associated Press

Queen Elizabeth II, wearing the Imperial Crown, carries the symbols of authority, the orb and the sceptre, as she leaves Westminster Abbey on June 2, 1953, at the end of the Coronation Ceremony.

Britain's Queen Elizabeth II is crowned the Monarch of Britain holding the Royal Scepter, sat on throne, wearing St. Edward's crown, at Westminster Abbey, in London, June 2, 1953.

Surrounded by high clerics and ladies-in-waiting, Queen Elizabeth II sits in the Chair of Estate in Westminster Abbey in London on June 2, 1953, as she is crowned queen. In the royal gallery in the background Queen Mother Elizabeth leans over to attend to the unseen Prince Charles as Princess Margaret lends a hand.

STF / AFP/Getty Images

Queen Elizabeth II, left, accompanied by Prince Philip waves to the crowd after being crowned during her coronation at Westminter Abbey in London on June 2, 1953.

Leslie Priest/AP

Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, wave to supporters from the balcony at Buckingham Palace, following her coronation at Westminster Abbey in London on June 2, 1953.

Today’s Highlight in History:

On June 2, 1953, Queen Elizabeth II was crowned at age 27 at a ceremony in London’s Westminster Abbey, 16 months after the death of her father, King George VI.

On this date:

In 1924, Congress passed, and President Calvin Coolidge signed, a measure guaranteeing full American citizenship for all Native Americans born within U.S. territorial limits.

In 1941, baseball’s “Iron Horse,” Lou Gehrig, died in New York of a degenerative disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, also known as ALS; he was 37.

In 1961, playwright and director George S. Kaufman, 71, died in New York.

In 1962, Soviet forces opened fire on striking workers in the Russian city of Novocherkassk; a retired general in 1989 put the death toll at 22 to 24.

In 1966, U.S. space probe Surveyor 1 landed on the moon and began transmitting detailed photographs of the lunar surface.

In 1979, Pope John Paul II arrived in his native Poland on the first visit by a pope to a Communist country.

In 1981, the Japanese video arcade game “Donkey Kong” was released by Nintendo.

In 1997, Timothy McVeigh was convicted of murder and conspiracy in the 1995 bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building in Oklahoma City that killed 168 people. (McVeigh was executed in June 2001.)

In 1999, South Africans went to the polls in their second post-apartheid election, giving the African National Congress a decisive victory; retiring president Nelson Mandela was succeeded by Thabo Mbeki (TAH’-boh um-BEH’-kee).

In 2011, a judge in Placerville, California, sentenced serial sex offender Phillip Garrido to life in prison for kidnapping and raping Jaycee Dugard; Garrido’s wife, Nancy, received a decades-long sentence.

In 2012, ousted Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak was sentenced to life in prison after a court convicted him on charges of complicity in the killing of protesters during the 2011 uprising that forced him from power (Mubarak was later acquitted and freed in March 2017; he died in February 2020).

In 2016, autopsy results showed superstar musician Prince died of an accidental overdose of fentanyl, a powerful opioid painkiller.

In 2018, the number of homes destroyed reached 80 in an eruption of Hawaii’s Kilauea Volcano. (The eruption would eventually destroy more than 700 homes.)

In 2020, defying curfews, protesters streamed back into the nation’s streets, hours after President Donald Trump urged governors to put down the violence set off by the death of George Floyd. Police said four officers were hit by gunfire after protests in St. Louis that began peacefully became violent.

In 2021, the NFL pledged to stop the use of “race-norming” in a $1 billion settlement of brain injury claims; the practice had made it harder for Black players to show a deficit and qualify for an award.

In 2022, Queen Elizabeth II drew wild cheers from a crowd of tens of thousands as she carefully stepped on to the Buckingham Palace balcony at the start of four days of celebrations of her 70 years on the throne. (The queen’s reign would end with her death three months later).

In 2023, a massive train derailment involving two passenger trains in India left more than 280 people dead and hundreds injured.

Today’s Birthdays: Actor Ron Ely is 86. Filmmaker and movie historian Kevin Brownlow is 86. Actor Stacy Keach is 83. Actor Charles Haid is 81. R&B singer Chubby Tavares (Tavares) is 80. Movie director Lasse Hallstrom is 78. Actor Jerry Mathers is 76. Actor Joanna Gleason is 74. NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman is 72. Actor Dennis Haysbert is 70. Comedian Dana Carvey is 69. Actor Gary Grimes is 69. Pop musician Michael Steele is 69. Rock singer Tony Hadley (Spandau Ballet) is 64. Actor Liam Cunningham is 63. Actor Navid Negahban is 60. Singer Merril Bainbridge is 56. TV personality-producer Andy Cohen (“The Real Housewives” TV franchise) is 56. Rapper B-Real (Cypress Hill) is 54. Actor Paula Cale is 54. Actor Anthony Montgomery is 53. Actor-comedian Wayne Brady is 52. Actor Wentworth Miller is 52. Rock musician Tim Rice-Oxley (Keane) is 48. Actor Zachary Quinto is 47. Actor Dominic Cooper is 46. Actor Nikki Cox is 46. Actor Justin Long is 46. Actor Deon Richmond is 46. Actor Morena Baccarin is 45. Rock musician Fabrizio Moretti (The Strokes) is 44. Olympic gold medal soccer player Abby Wambach is 44. Singer-songwriter ZZ Ward is 38. Rapper/actor Awkwafina is 36. Actor Brittany Curran is 34. Actor Sterling Beaumon is 29.

More in History

Local News | Illinois may soon return land the US stole from a Prairie Band Potawatomi chief 175 years ago

Daily Southtown | Landmarks: It’s road trip season, why not tour area’s scenic, historic highways?

History | Today in Sports History: Chicago Cubs’ Ernie Banks ends his 717-game streak

History | Today in History: Title IX signed into law

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