Lord Mayor's Show

The Lord Mayor’s Show is an annual civic procession in the City of London, with origins dating to the early 13th century. It began when newly elected mayors were required to travel to Westminster to pledge loyalty to the King, and has since grown into a colourful public celebration. The organisers describe it as the world’s oldest, longest and best-loved civic procession. The 2026 Show is scheduled to leave Mansion House at 11am on Saturday 14 November, carrying the incoming Lord Mayor to Westminster for the traditional oath of loyalty to the Crown.

The Show is free and open to the public, with guidance on viewing locations, the processional route, timetable, accessibility, safety and travel. Visitors can consult maps and programme information, while a printed programme will be sold on the day by Scout and Guide volunteers for £5 in cash. The site also provides practical updates on road closures, bus diversions and suspended parking, plus details of free guided walks after the procession.