Royal Family

On 6th May 2023, King Charles III became the oldest monarch in our royal history to be crowned. Led by the Archbishop of Canterbury, this momentous event marked the official start of His Majesty’s reign and took place at Westminster Abbey, where coronations have been held since the rule of William the Conqueror. The opulent ceremony was viewed by an estimated 20 million people in the UK alone, and millions more worldwide. Since his inauguration, the monarch has dedicated himself to his official duties in the United Kingdom and overseas, while championing causes close to his heart, including sustainability, education, and the arts. To celebrate his milestone 75th birthday, Charles III launched the Coronation Food Project, a charity which aims to tackle food poverty and waste, as well as continuing to lead The King’s Trust and The King’s Foundation.

In March 2025, Westminster Abbey hosted the annual Commonwealth Day service, attended by senior members of the Royal Family and led by His Majesty. This important tradition, observed since 1972, featured musical performances, sermons, and reflections from global leaders and activists on this year’s theme, ‘Together We Thrive’. Shortly after this, Prince William made his first visit to Estonia to meet British troops in his role as colonel-in-chief of the Mercian Regiment. He also attended engagements in the country’s capital, Tallinn. In early April, the King and Queen travelled to Italy, marking their first royal excursion to the country since His Majesty’s accession in September 2022 and coinciding with their 20th wedding anniversary. Later in the year, our Royal Family will mark the historic 80th Anniversary of VE Day, with events across the nation including a poignant service at Westminster Abbey and a celebratory concert.

As the Second World War finally came to an end in Europe, George VI addressed the nation in a powerful radio broadcast on the 8th May 1945, offering thanks to the British people for their endurance, sacrifice, and resolve through years of hardship. Throughout the conflict, which spanned almost six full years, the King, accompanied by Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother, boosted the morale of troops, workers, and victims of war, gaining popularity by empathising with the public and visiting communities to offer support. As a powerful symbol of courage and fortitude, Their Majesties remained at Buckingham Palace for the majority of the war, despite nine direct bombings and severe damage during the Blitz. For this year’s 80th anniversary celebrations, George VI’s grandson, King Charles III, is expected to lead the country’s official commemorations.