Derby Cathedral to host a full weekend of Coronation celebration

Derby Cathedral will hold four days of celebration to mark the Coronation of His Majesty King Charles III and Her Majesty the Queen Consort.

The events include a big-screen presentation of the Coronation itself, and an opportunity for children to have a go at playing the mighty Cathedral organ!

On Friday, 5th May the Cathedral bellringers will take part in Ring for the King, a nationwide event honouring the Coronation. From 17:30, the Cathedral bells will ring for around three hours and fifteen minutes in what is known as a ‘peal attempt’.

On Saturday, 6^th May the Cathedral will host Derby’s big-screen public showing of the Coronation, in partnership with Derby City Council. The doors open to the public from 09:00 and everyone is invited to come along with friends and family to watch this historic event on the specially installed screen. Tea and coffee will be available throughout the day, together with Coronation-themed activities to help keep the children entertained!

Sunday, 7^th May will see local communities come together to take part in The Big Lunch, a nationwide act of celebration and friendship. Members of the public are invited to bring a picnic lunch to the Cathedral to enjoy alongside each other, with activities for children between 12:30 and 14:30.

Also on Sunday will be a special Commemorative Service at 17:15 with the Dean of Derby, the Lord Bishop of Derby and HM Lord Lieutenant of Derbyshire, who invite everyone to come together to reflect and celebrate. There will also be a British Sign Language (BSL) interpreter present at this service.

And on Monday, 8^th May the Cathedral is taking part in The Big Help Out, with a day of activities and taster sessions with our Cathedral Volunteers.

There will also be an opportunity for children to have a go at playing the Cathedral organ, culminating in a royal-themed concert! The Big Help Out will take place in the Cathedral from 10:00 to 16:00.

The Very Revd Dr Peter Robinson, Dean of Derby, said: “These events have been arranged specially for the people of Derby and Derbyshire and I extend the invitation to everyone to come and celebrate this special occasion.

“I am delighted that Derby Cathedral will be a focus of the Coronation for those in the city and beyond.”

The weekend’s events and activities are open to all who want to celebrate this special occasion.

Find out more about our Coronation events at derbycathedral.org/coronation