Lord Mayor's Show 2024 in London

The Lord Mayor's Show is an annual event that brings the vibrant culture and history of the City of London to life. Held on November 9, 2024, the event marks the newly elected Lord Mayor’s first official day in office. The day features a grand parade through the heart of the city, where over 7,000 participants, 200 horses, and 150 floats join a colorful procession stretching over three miles. The show reflects the rich traditions of the City of London, while also serving as an opportunity for the Lord Mayor to swear allegiance to the Crown at the Royal Courts of Justice.

Activities and Attractions

The Lord Mayor's Show is more than just a parade. Visitors can experience a unique blend of historical pageantry and modern community participation. The procession is led by the Lord Mayor traveling in a golden State Coach, a tradition dating back to the 18th century. Alongside the historic Pikemen, Musketeers, and marching military bands, the event features floats representing community groups, charities, schools, and modern businesses. Attendees can expect to see a lively combination of musicians, dancers, and performers, offering an eclectic mix of entertainment.

After the procession, the City of London offers a wide range of attractions, from museums and galleries to restaurants, cafés, and shops. Venues like the Guildhall Art Gallery and London’s Roman Amphitheatre will be open for visitors, offering insights into the city's storied past.

Schedule and Program

The 2024 Lord Mayor's Show will begin at 11 am and is expected to last until 3 pm, with the main procession route running from Mansion House to the Royal Courts of Justice and back. The route will differ slightly on the return leg, offering various vantage points for spectators. The program for the day will be made available through official sources closer to the event, and attendees can purchase a Lord Mayor's Show program on-site.

According to the event’s organizers, road closures will be in place throughout the City of London starting early in the morning and lasting until around 4 pm, making public transportation the preferred mode of travel for visitors. Those planning to attend should check in advance for any potential service disruptions on Transport for London (TfL).

Tickets and Parking

One of the highlights of the Lord Mayor's Show is that admission is free. However, as noted, parking restrictions and road closures will be in effect throughout the day, meaning driving into the city will be challenging. Visitors are encouraged to use the tube, train, or bus services, with the newly opened Elizabeth Line station at Farringdon offering a convenient access point to the event.

Location and Infrastructure

The Lord Mayor’s Show takes place in the City of London, a bustling area well-served by public transport links. With its central location, visitors can easily explore nearby landmarks such as St. Paul’s Cathedral, the Tower of London, and the Bank of England Museum. Additionally, the City of London is home to numerous cafés, restaurants, and bars, ensuring that attendees can enjoy a full day of activities both before and after the parade.

For those with disabilities, the organizers offer access passes and information to ensure the event is accessible to everyone.

History of the Festival

The Lord Mayor’s Show is one of the oldest civic events in the world, dating back over 800 years to 1215, when King John granted the City of London the right to elect its mayor. As part of this agreement, each newly elected Lord Mayor was required to travel from the City to Westminster to swear allegiance to the Crown. Over the centuries, this journey evolved into the spectacular procession that is celebrated today. Despite its age, the show continues to reflect both the historical and modern facets of the City of London.

The grandeur of the event increased with the introduction of the Lord Mayor's State Coach in the mid-1700s, a feature that continues to symbolize the show’s historic significance. Through wars, fires, and periods of immense change, the Lord Mayor's Show has remained a key cultural event in London.