Annual Commemoration of the Execution of King Charles I

On Saturday January 30, 1649, King Charles I was publicly executed outside Banqueting House, on Whitehall, by the Parliamentarians.

On Sunday January 25, 2026, the English Civil War Society held its annual commemoration of the illegal execution of King Charles I, by the Parliament, for the 54th time.

The costumed march of over 200 volunteers armed with muskets, pikes, swords and cannons began on The Mall, near St James's Palace, at 11:30 and made its way to Horse Guards Parade ground.

It was here that a religious drumhead service was held, a colour was trooped and blessed, the Oath of Loyalty was administered and awards and commissions were presented. 

The wreath was then blessed and trooped around the whole army, before the honour guard took it and fixed it to the railings of Banqueting House, on Whitehall, bringing the ceremony to a close.

The official policy of the King's Army is to never refer to it as an execution as this infers a legal act, which this was not. 

Seeing over 200 Cavaliers in their historically accurate slow marching to the sound of drums, being led by mounted Cavaliers was really something to behold.

As each regiment entered the parade ground, the following regiments were forced to pause on Horse Guards Road, giving those lining the street the chance to take some photos.

Once the King's Army had passed us, and entered Horse Guards Parade, the crowds formed a square around the army and watched the ceremony unfold.

Prayers were said and the regiments were announced, with the various 'colours' being raised and lowered as the ceremonial party walked the ranks.

Once the ceremony was finished we made our way through Horse Guards and crossed Whitehall, to Banqueting House, to see the wreath up close.

The English Civil War Society performs this commemoration on the last Sunday of January every year, and it is definitely worth watching.

Below is a highlight video of this year's march.