Pomp and pageantry

11 April 2012
The Weekender

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Enjoy military pomp and camp costumes for free at these traditional ceremonies

CHARLES I COMMEMORATION One of the more macabre spectacles, this marks the King's last walk in 1646. The procession, from St James's Palace, heads down The Mall, Horse Guards Parade and Horse Guards Avenue for a wreath-laying outside Banqueting House, Whitehall, SW1 - the scene of his execution. Sun 25 Jan, 11.30am-noon.

ACCESSION DAY GUN SALUTE Marking the Queen's accession to the throne in 1952. At noon watch the King's Troop Royal Horse Artillery fire away in Hyde Park (opposite the Dorchester). An hour later the Honourable Artillery Company does the honours at the Tower Of London, EC3. Move quickly and you'll catch both. Fri 6 Feb, noon & 1pm.

CHANGING OF THE GUARD During winter, the Buckingham Palace ceremony takes place in the forecourt at 11.30am on alternate days (even days in Jan, odd in Feb) and lasts about 45 min. In bad weather the soldiers don't come out to play. Buckingham Palace, SW1. www.royal.gov.uk.

CEREMONY OF THE KEYS The official locking-up of the Tower Of London (a 700-year tradition) happens daily at 10pm and concludes with a rendition of the Last Post. Apply for free tickets two months in advance by sending an SAE to HM Tower Of London, Tower Hill, EC3 4AP. www.hrp.org.uk.

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