Every January, scores of volunteers in royalist costumes gather near St James’s Palace to commemorate the execution of King Charles I, a pivotal moment in English history. The annual march, organized by The King’s Army, a royalist branch of the English Civil War Society, traces the monarch’s final journey from St James’s Palace to the scaffold at Banqueting House where he was beheaded on January 30, 1649.
Each January, royalists in period costume retrace Charles I’s final journey to the scaffold, commemorating his 1649 execution.
The 54th commemoration will continue this half-century tradition, with the 53rd parade scheduled for January 26, 2025. Participants assemble around 11:15am on The Mall outside St James’ Palace, with the procession beginning at 11:30am. The march proceeds down The Mall to Horse Guards Parade, where a commemorative drumhead service takes place. The event aims to educate the public about this significant moment when the English Civil War effectively ended.
Spectators can observe this free public event by simply arriving at The Mall before the start time. The procession features mounted troops and marchers in period funeral attire, carrying weapons including the distinctive pikes that were central to English Civil War military formations. The sight of pikemen in full 17th century costume creates a striking time travel experience in the heart of modern London. This annual ceremony also commemorates what participants solemnly refer to as the Horrid Murder of the king. More than 200 participants are expected to join this year’s event, creating an impressive historical spectacle. Additionally, the event takes place in a city known for its safest neighbourhoods, ensuring a secure environment for those attending.
Upon reaching Horse Guards Parade, participants conduct a ceremonial service where the Colour is trooped and blessed. Members of The King’s Army, who refer to the execution as “His Majestie’s horrid murder,” also take an Oath of Loyalty during the ceremony. Some members receive awards and commissions as part of the proceedings.
A notable piece of London trivia connects to this historical event: the black mark on the Horse Guards clock is said to signify 2pm, the time when the executioner’s axe fell on Charles I, though this claim is disputed by some historians.
For those interested in English history, this solemn commemoration offers a vivid glimpse into the conclusion of the English Civil War, when the beheading of a king drew a gory line under a national conflict that shaped Britain’s future.
