The history of St James’ Palace and the Accession Council

On Saturday, King Charles III was officially proclaimed as the new monarch at his accession, which was held at St James’ Palace. It was formally attended by the Accession Council, which, dating from Norman times, is the oldest legislative assembly in the UK. This was the first time a British monarch’s accession has been televised.

The historic palace was built in the 1530s under the order of Henry VIII and became the principal royal palace until Victorian times, when Buckingham Palace became the main royal residence. Of key historical interest at St James’ is Friary Court, where the Garter King of Arms announces the new monarch from the Proclamation Gallery. On Saturday, following this formality, the Coldstream Guards, who were assembled in the court, removed their Bearskin hats, laid down their guns and gave three cheers to the King.

St James’ Palace is not open to the public, however you can attend Sunday services in the Chapel Royal and Queen’s Chapel at certain times throughout the year, and see the Changing of the Guards here, too.

Photo credit:  © Matt Brown, CC BY-ND 2.0

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