Royal Gun Salutes 2025 in London

In the past, gun salutes were performed to express friendly intentions, for it indicated that no weapons were hidden. Nowadays, its symbolic meaning has slightly changed, and gun salutes are mainly associated with special Royal occasions and represent respect and acceptance. On special days, such as anniversaries and birthdays, Royal salutes are fired from various locations in London and across the UK.

Dates of Royal Gun Salutes

Gun salutes are a traditional part of royal celebrations and mark several significant anniversaries and events. These include Accession Day on September 9, the King's Birthday on November 14, Coronation Day on May 6, the King's Official Birthday, which is observed on a Saturday in June, and the State Opening of Parliament, usually held in November or December. Additionally, Her Majesty The Queen's Birthday will be celebrated on July 17, 2024. Gun salutes may also occur on other notable occasions, such as the State Opening of Parliament.

Royal salutes at the Tower of London

Gun salutes are fired from various locations. At 1 pm, you can witness a salute at the Tower of London. The Honourable Artillery Company will discharge salutes from four 25-pounder guns stationed on Tower Wharf, facing the River Thames.

Royal salutes at Hyde Park/Green Park

Also, at noon, similar gun salutes take place either at Hyde Park or Green Park, depending on the occasion. The King's Troop, Royal Horse Artillery, fires the salute using six 13-pounder guns. Typically, the salute consists of 21 rounds fired at ten-second intervals. However, in Hyde Park, an additional 20 rounds are fired, as it is a Royal Park.