King Charles III’s Coronation
A Historic Day for the United Kingdom & Commonwealth
On 6th May, His Royal Highness King Charles III will be crowned in a grand ceremony at Westminster Abbey in London. This momentous occasion marks the beginning of a new era for the British Royal family and is a day for the nation to come together and celebrate the future of the monarchy.
King Charles III's coronation weekend is set to be one of the most exciting events of the year and will be followed by a weekend of celebrations across the UK. Find out everything you need to know about this momentous occasion and the celebration plans below.
Experience the Coronation
DFDS offers a range of ferry routes from Europe to the UK, including Dunkirk or Calais to Dover, Dieppe to Newhaven, and Amsterdam to Newcastle. Journey times vary from just 90 minutes on the Calais-Dover route to a leisurely 16-hour overnight crossing on our Amsterdam to Newcastle route. The latter is ideal for those travelling from further north on the continent and looking to experience more of what the UK has to offer by taking a scenic road trip to London, whilst our France to England routes provide easy access to the capital in under 2 hours’ drive from our Dover port.
So, why not start your Coronation weekend off with a stress-free and enjoyable journey by ferry with DFDS? Travelling by ferry offers a range of benefits, including the flexibility to bring your car and take as much luggage as you need. You can also enjoy the comfort and relaxation of a modern ferry, with facilities such as restaurants, bars, and our Duty Free shops onboard.
London: the heart of the festivities
The main events of the King’s Coronation will take place in the bustling English capital - you can read about the festivities happening in London over the Bank Holiday weekend below.
Looking for alternative ways to celebrate the Coronation outside of London? Why not visit one of the royal residences in beautiful Scotland or indulge in a traditional afternoon tea in one of the UK’s many quaint towns and villages.
For more inspiration to plan the perfect royal stay in the UK, take a look at our helpful travel guide here.
6th May – The Coronation Day
Get ready for a day of opulence and customs! On Saturday, 6th May 2023, the Coronation Service for His Majesty The King and Her Majesty The Queen Consort will take place at Westminster Abbey. The event promises both grandeur and tradition, with a solemn, religious service and a spectacle of celebration.
Witness history unfold as the Royals arrive in a grand procession and are crowned and blessed. The festivities will continue after the service with 'The Coronation Procession' and a chance to catch a glimpse of the Royal Family as they make an appearance on the balcony of Buckingham Palace.
7th May – The Coronation Concert
A Coronation Concert will be hosted on 7th May 2023 at Windsor Castle, bringing together music icons and stars to celebrate the historic occasion. A world-class orchestra, contemporary performers, community choirs, and dancers will take the stage, accompanied by special effects on the Castle's East Lawn.
A special event 'Lighting up the Nation' will be the centrepiece, illuminating iconic locations across the UK using projections, lasers, drone displays and more. Although the national ballot for tickets is now closed, the concert will be broadcast live by the BBC for all to watch and listen.
7th May – The Coronation Big Lunch
Celebrate friendship and community spirit at a Coronation Big Lunch on 7th May 2023. This special edition of the annual Big Lunch event brings communities together to share food and festivities, whilst supporting charities and good causes, reducing loneliness, and strengthening community bonds. Since 2013, The Queen Consort has been the proud Patron of the Big Lunch.
Thousands of events are expected to take place across the UK in parks, gardens, and public spaces. This is the perfect opportunity to meet locals and experience the true spirit of British community if you’re visiting for the celebrations!
8th May - The Big Help Out
The last day of the Coronation celebrations will see The Together Coalition, along with various partners, including The Scouts, the Royal Voluntary Service, and faith groups from all corners of the United Kingdom, holding The Big Help Out.
To pay homage to His Majesty The King's public service, this event aims to inspire people to experience volunteering and participate in the ongoing efforts to uplift their local areas. Its goal is to foster unity within communities and establish a lasting volunteering legacy from the Coronation weekend. Why not get involved during your stay and lend a hand?
Our Routes to the UK
Amsterdam-Newcastle Ferry Crossings
Travel comfortably with your car, campervan, or motorcycle and with no luggage limits on the Amsterdam–Newcastle ferry to the gates of Scotland.
From
€79
Dunkirk-Dover Ferry Crossings
Sail across the English Channel with ease on a short crossing between Dunkirk and Dover.
From
€103
per car + up to 4 people, one way*
Calais-Dover Ferry Crossings
Our Calais to Dover route is the shortest crossing we provide and is the perfect way to cross the Channel to the UK.
From
€103
per car + up to 4 people, one way*
Dieppe-Newhaven Ferry Crossings
Crossing the Channel from Dieppe to Newhaven provides you with the ideal gateway to the UK.
From
€118
per car + 2 people, one way*
Travel Guides
London
Visit London for iconic landmarks like the London Eye, Big Ben and Buckingham Palace, as well as the charming boroughs of Kensington, Notting Hill, Shoreditch and more.
Edinburgh
With DFDS ferries to Newcastle, it couldn’t be easier to travel Scotland for a fantastic holiday, with Edinburgh just a couple of hours’ drive from the port.
Canterbury
Rich in history - Canterbury is a must for those wishing to immerse themselves in the culture of one of England's most famous cities.
York
York is one of the UK’s most historic cities, and has been at the heart of many major events during its 2,000 year history.
FAQs
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