Coronation of King Charles III
The coronation of King Charles III and Queen Camilla took place on Saturday 6 May 2023 at Westminster Abbey. In Berkhamsted, the whole town celebrated with a weekend of festivities to mark this historic event.
Sunday 7 May 2023
St Peter’s Church joined with other Berkhamsted churches to hold a special service of thanksgiving give thanks to God at the Coronation. The church choir sang a historic performance of Parry’s ‘I was glad’ complete with the new Vivats which had been specially published by Westminster Abbey for King Charles and Queen Camilla.
Monday 8 May 2023
On the Coronation bank holiday Monday, the rain held off, and Berkhamsted High Street became a huge festival enjoyed by everyone. Bands played on the main stage to entertain the crowds, and Kathryn Jenkin and Philip Conway-Brown led a rousing Last Night of the Proms-style sing-a-long with ‘Land of Hope and Glory’. The beer was flowing, the flags were flying, and St Peter’s volunteers laid on a fabulous Coronation Afternoon Tea with an eye-popping spread of cakes. In St Peter’s churchyard, the Scouts were busy looking after the children’s play area, which was bustling with outdoor Jenga and Connect 4 provided by the Town Council. 
In the church, hundreds queued to go up the bell tower to try out bellringing – including a surprise visit from the High Sheriff of Hertfordshire, Liz Green, and the Mayor of Berkhamsted, Wendy Conian!
A message from His Majesty the King was published by Buckingham Palace:
We pay particular tribute to the countless people who have given their time and dedication to ensuring that the celebrations in London, Windsor and further afield were as happy, safe and enjoyable as possible. To those who joined in the celebrations – whether at home, at street parties and lunches, or by volunteering in communities – we thank you, each and every one.
Charles R
Photo gallery
