Highlights of the Lord Mayor's Show 2024

The Lord Mayor's Show is a living piece of London’s history—a spectacle that combines centuries-old tradition with vibrant pageantry. As the world’s oldest and most celebrated unrehearsed civic procession, it has captivated audiences for years, with the BBC broadcasting it for more than 80 years. Each year, it marks the grand moment when the new Lord Mayor is presented to the City, making a historic journey in the 270-year-old State Coach to swear allegiance to the Crown.

Alongside him in the Coach are his Chaplain, two Esquires, the Swordbearer (who proudly carries the Lord Mayor’s Sword of State), and the Common Cryer and Serjeant at Arms, who wields the great Mace of the City. Leading the procession is the City Marshal, riding ahead of the State Coach on horseback, a striking figure in the pageant.

Last Saturday, we welcomed the 696th Lord Mayor of London, Alastair King, as he took his place in this time-honoured procession, following in the footsteps of his predecessors and continuing the legacy of one of the world’s most iconic civic celebrations. Featured in the Programme is a world exclusive interview with the new Lord Mayor, as he is quizzed by the broadcaster and journalist John Humphrys about his appetite for risk and his vision for ‘Growth Unleashed’ in the City. Read the full interview online now via this link.

This year’s Lord Mayor's Show was once again expertly orchestrated by Pageantmaster Dominic Reid OBE (read over our interview with Dominic here), who’s been at the helm for 32 years now, following in his father’s footsteps, who managed the show for 20 before him.

This year, the Programme features vibrant illustrations by Adam Dant, from the detailed cover to the playful, yet informative, cartoon map of the procession’s route.

The City of London Corporation continues to bring this historic event to life, with Illustrated London News—SPHERE’s parent company—producing the official Programme. ILN's team once again donned high-vis vests to hit the streets of London selling the Programme—a comprehensive guide to the Procession, complete with insights and exclusive interviews with the key figures behind the event.

The Lady Mayoress, Florence King, made a charming appearance alongside her husband during the day’s festivities. Dressed to impress in a striking tartan ensemble, she waved her black gloves from her carriage as it gracefully made its way through the city’s streets. Before joining our newly appointed Lord Mayor in taking an oath of allegiance before the Lord Chief Justice of England and Wales.

As for the rest of the procession, leading the Lord Mayor’s state coach were the Doggett’s Coat and Badge men. Followed by winners of the world’s oldest rowing race, held since 1715. Close behind were the Pikemen and Musketeers, the Lord Mayor’s bodyguards from the Honourable Artillery Company, the UK’s oldest regiment.

The parade also featured lively marching bands, including the Romford Drum & Trumpet Corps and the Band of the Royal Air Force College, while the Band of the Royal Regiment of Scotland stole the show with their mascot, Cpl Cruachan IV, a black Shetland pony.

Adding a touch of humour, the Worshipful Company of Paviors showed their support for the London Construction Academy and Construction Youth Trust with a comically large pig float. Children dressed as Dennis the Menace, representing Beano, brought fun to the procession. Alongside a colourful performance from the China Chamber of Commerce, complete with cymbals and dancing dragons.

Each year, the Lord Mayor's Show unites a dynamic mix of participants and at ILN we’re proud to play a role in the running of such a historical event. Helping to uphold a tradition that continues to captivate both Londoners and visitors alike.

Scroll down to enjoy more of the curated selection of the wonderful imagery captured by photographer Rick Pushinsky.

Find out more information about this year's show via: https://lordmayorsshow.london/