Trooping the Colour 2024 timings and when Kate Middleton is set to appear

King Charles III during the Trooping the Colour ceremony at Horse Guards Parade in June 2023
-Credit: (Image: PA)


Trooping the Colour, a centuries old tradition to mark the monarch's birthday, is set to take place today (Saturday, June 15).

Thousands of people will watch on as soldiers, horses and musicians march from Buckingham Palace to the Horse Guard Parade in London.

King Charles III has confirmed he will appear, despite his recent cancer diagnosis, but departing from tradition, he will appear in a carriage on doctor's orders, rather than on horseback.

READ MORE: King's Birthday Honours list 2024: Full list of the incredible people from Greater Manchester and Cheshire recognised

Princess Kate announced yesterday (Friday) that she will also be attending. It will be her first public appearance since December 25, 2023.

Kate, who has been receiving treatment for an undisclosed form of cancer since late February, will ride in a carriage alongside her three children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis, for the traditional procession on Saturday from 10am. Later, she is expected to gather with the King, the Prince of Wales and other royals on Buckingham Palace’s balcony for the fly-past.

-Credit:Matt Porteous/Kensington Palace
-Credit:Matt Porteous/Kensington Palace

Tickets have sold out, with members of the public wishing to catch a glimpse of the Royal Family along The Mall or at the edge of St James's Park. Those who don't fancy facing the crowds can watch from the comfort of their own homes.

What time does Trooping the Colour start?

From 9:15am onwards the Troops will start forming up, on Horse Guards Parade.

At 10:45am His Majesty The King will leave Buckingham Palace escorted by the Household Cavalry.

At 11:00am precisely The King will arrive on Horse Guards Parade to take the Royal Salute.

The King will then review His Guards riding down the ranks of foot guards and cavalry.

During the parade The Colour is Trooped through the ranks before the Foot Guards march past The King.

Then the Household Cavalry and Kings Troop Royal Horse Artillery rank past.

The King, at the head of His Guards, will return up The Mall to Buckingham Palace.

At the gates of Buckingham Palace The King will watch the parade march past in salute.

The Kings Troop Royal Horse Artillery will then fire a 41 Gun Salute in The Green Park to celebrate The King's Official Birthday.

Royal household staff prepare the balcony at Buckingham Palace, London, ahead of members of the royal family appearing following the Trooping the Colour ceremony -Credit:PA
Royal household staff prepare the balcony at Buckingham Palace, London, ahead of members of the royal family appearing following the Trooping the Colour ceremony -Credit:PA

The King will then join other members of the Royal Family on the iconic balcony at Buckingham Palace.

From there, they will watch a fly-past by the Royal Air Force which will take place at 1pm.

Where can I watch Trooping the Colour?

The parade will be broadcast live on the BBC.

Live coverage begins on BBC One from 10:30am running all the way through to 1.10pm. Those unable to watch live will be able to catch up on BBC iPlayer.