Having experienced a Royal Garden Party first-hand back in 2019 and watching them evolve over the years has been nothing short of fascinating. The way these events have managed to maintain their traditional charm while adapting to modern times is truly remarkable. It’s a blend of history and contemporary elegance, creating a unique and unforgettable experience.
Royal Garden Party / King’s Garden Party Dates 2026
Dates for this year’s parties are (at time of publishing):
Wednesday 7 May Buckingham Palace
Friday 9 May Buckingham Palace
Tuesday 12 May Buckingham Palace
Staying Ahead of the Curve for 2026
There’s a lot of interest around how to get an invitation to the Royal Garden Parties in England and Scotland. In fact, I had the pleasure of sharing my story with Business Insider!
For those of you wanting to attend a Royal Garden Party this year, or just dreaming about it, staying informed about the latest trends and styles is key. Keep an eye on the official Royal website for updates, and don’t forget to bring your own flair to these guidelines to ensure you not only look your best but also feel confident and comfortable in what you’re wearing.
Essential Fashion Advice for Royal Garden Parties in 2026
Eco-Friendly and Stylish: Sustainable Fashion Choices
In 2026, sustainable style is about choosing timeless, well-made pieces you’ll rewear, from responsibly sourced fabrics to rental, vintage, or second-hand outfits. Thoughtful styling and quality over quantity are key to creating an elegant look with a lighter environmental footprint.
This year, the focus is on minimal yet impactful accessories. A single statement piece, be it a piece of jewellery or an elegant handbag, can elevate your outfit without overwhelming it.
Finding Inspiration in the Digital Age
Platforms like Instagram and TikTok are brimming with fashion inspiration. Following influencers and stylists who specialise in formal wear can give you a plethora of ideas for your Royal Garden Party outfit.
Dress Rehearsal: The Key to Confidence
It’s always wise to try on your entire outfit well before the event. This not only ensures that everything fits perfectly but also gives you the confidence that you look as fabulous as you imagined.
Capturing the Moment: Photography Tips
These events are not just a celebration but a visual feast. Choose an outfit that not only looks good in person but also photographs well, so you can cherish and share these memories for years to come.
Wrapping It Up: Your 2026 Royal Garden Party Guide
Attending a Royal Garden Party is an experience that transcends time, blending the elegance of tradition with the vibrancy of modern fashion. As you prepare for these events in 2026, remember that the key is to feel confident in your choice of attire. Whether it’s the boldness of florals, the elegance of metallics, or the simplicity of a chic monochrome look, what matters most is how you feel in your outfit.
I hope this guide helps you navigate the fascinating world of Royal Garden Party fashion in 2026. I’m excited to see your choices and hear about your experiences. So go ahead, make a statement, relish every moment, and most importantly, enjoy the celebration in style.
Got any questions or need more tips on Royal events or fashion? I’m always here to share insights and advice.
Much has changed since the sad passing of Queen Elizabeth in September 2022 – we still remember so fondly the Royal Garden Parties she hosted. A few years back, Cooper and I were exceptionally lucky to be invited to attend a Royal Garden Party. We’ve been reminded of it all again as we finished up The Crown on Netflix last year (sob!).
As it happens, the event we attended was one of the very last of these events the Queen actually hosted. The following two years saw this special event cancelled due to COVID. When the Queen’s Garden Party returned in 2022, she was already beginning to get quite frail and did not attend.
Royal Garden Parties: What does the future hold?
Since the Queen’s funeral unfolded, I have been contacted a few times on LinkedIn with enquiries about our time at the garden party. Our Royal Garden Party experience was truly exceptional and we felt so honoured to be invited.
There’s a lot of interest around how to get an invitation to the Royal Garden Parties in England and Scotland. I was even approached by Business Insider to share my story about this!
Image courtesy royal.com
Happily, King Charles has continued the tradition of hosting these events! At the time of publishing, there’s not a lot of detail yet around how this will look in 2026. Dates for the Buckingham Palace events have recently been published though. They are Wednesday 6 May, Friday 8 May, and Tuesday 12 May 2026.
…How to score an invite then?
You could also do a little research to see if your country’s High Commission or the like, extends offers to apply or be nominated to attend. The Mirror in the UK published advice too, read here for more details.
You can keep an eye on active ‘royal watcher’ blogs like this one that shares updates and goss as it becomes available. If you can find your way into a royal event, it’s well worth it. The Brits really know how to make an event fabulous!
While we do miss the Queen, it’s wonderful that King Charles continues the tradition. I hope that you have the chance to attend too :) In the meantime, if you’d like a little more insight into what expat life is like in London, travel on over to our YouTube channel and look for the living in England playlists.
Many local councils and organisations across the UK have already nominated people to attend the garden parties in 2026, but you could do a little research in the area where you live to see if there are still opportunities available. Let us know how you get on!
Each year, there are many Crown-worthy events you can participate in. This post covers a list of Royal Events and Ceremonies to add to your diary now. Surprisingly, some of our most popular content here is about Royal events. For the past few years, our guides on the summer garden parties have been really popular! We have had requests to compile more opportunities where you can participate in Royal events and ceremonies. So, we’re pleased to share this list of some of the big ones to plan for.
Royal Events and Ceremonies: annual events you can take part in!
The British monarchy is steeped in history and tradition. Numerous royal events and ceremonies take place throughout the year. These events, some of which are open to the public, offer a fascinating glimpse into the world of royalty. Here’s a summary of some of the most significant annual events hosted in England month to month.
January: New Year’s Honours List
The New Year’s Honours List is an annual event where The King recognises the achievements and service of people across the UK. The list is published in the official newspaper of the Crown, The Gazette. There are events that surround this special occasion. Keep an eye on your local news and Royal sites for more. You can also nominate for the awards. More information is here.
April: Maundy Thursday
Maundy Thursday is the day The King distributes special Maundy money to local pensioners in a UK cathedral or abbey. This day, considered the fifth in the Holy Easter week, recognises people for their service to their community and the church. In 2023, the Evening Standard published an informative piece about this lesser-known – yet historical – of annual events. Read more here.
April: ANZAC Day
One for my fellow Aussies and New Zealanders. On ANZAC Day (and my birthday!), we remember those who defended our nations far across the sea, but never came home. ANZAC stands for Australian & New Zealand Army Corp. When we lived in London a few years ago, we heard about an invite-only service at Westminster Abbey that expats can attend. But, you must apply to be considered. Members of the Royal household and other special dignitaries attend. Keep an eye on the embassy website for a chance to apply for the coming year.
May: The RHS Chelsea Flower Show
Amazing garden designs, gorgeous floral displays, exclusive shopping and Royal appearances! May marks the start of the spring-summer season in the UK, and this is a great way to celebrate. Find out more here.
June: Trooping the Colour
Also known as The King’s Birthday Parade, Trooping the Colour is a spectacular ceremony that regiments of the British and Commonwealth armies perform. This official State occasion, held on the second Saturday in June in London, marks the official birthday of the British sovereign. It is always a wonderful spectacle on the ground and in the skies. Thousands of people turn out to attend and line the streets around Buckingham Palace. Anyone can attend, but arrive early to secure a great spot.
June: Royal Ascot
Royal Ascot, held in the third week of June, is a major event in the British social calendar. Each day begins with The Royal Procession, where The King and members of his family arrive in horse-drawn landaus. The Royal Enclosure is at the heart of Royal Ascot, with strict dress codes and exclusive entry requirements. More information on tickets and dress code can be found on Visit Britain’s site here.
June: Garter Day
Garter Day is a procession and service held each year at Windsor Castle for the Most Noble Order of the Garter, a chivalric order founded by Edward III. The Order is the senior and oldest British Order of Chivalry, and their motto is ‘Honi soit qui mal y pense’ (shame on him who thinks this evil). The ceremony takes place on the Monday of Royal Ascot week. Visit Royal.uk to find out more about the fascinating history of this day and the procession that takes place.
June: Beating the Retreat
Beating the Retreat is a military ceremony, traditionally performed at the end of the day during times of war. Today, it takes place at Horse Guards Parade for two nights in June each year. The event features military music and precision drills. The Mounted Bands of the Household Cavalry and the Massed Bands of the Household Division put on quit a show! Beating the Retreat is a ticketed event. The Household Division’s website publishes details on tickets each year.
July: Buckingham Palace Summer Opening
Every summer, the State Rooms at Buckingham Palace open to the public for ten weeks. Visitors have a unique opportunity to explore the lavish rooms that The King and members of the royal family use to receive and entertain guests on official occasions.
Summer: Garden Parties
Garden Parties are a staple in the Royal calendar. A tradition begun by Queen Victoria in the 1860s, the King hosts a minimum of three parties each summer at Buckingham Palace, and one at Holyrood House in Edinburgh. These events recognise those who have made significant contributions to public service. You generally receive an invitation to them only once in your life, as they are exclusive events. We had the great honour of attending a few years ago, one of the very last events the late Queen hosted.
November: Remembrance Sunday
We observe Remembrance Sunday on the second Sunday in November. The King and members of the royal family join political leaders, representatives of the armed forces and veterans at the Cenotaph in Whitehall, London, to remember those who have died in conflicts. Similar to ANZAC Day as mentioned above. Millions of people recognise this day alongside the Royal family.
December: Christmas Broadcast
The King’s Christmas Broadcast is a traditional part of the Christmas Day festivities. We know that even in Australia, many still tune in for the annual message of hope from the King. The ruling monarch uses this broadcast as an opportunity to reflect on the past year and look ahead. Once a radio-only event, it of course now goes live across the world in multiple ways. These events provide a fascinating insight into the traditions and duties of the British monarchy. Whether you’re a royal enthusiast or simply interested in British culture, all are a chance to dip your toes into the culture and history of the UK. For more information on events and appearances, keep an eye on royal.uk and themonarchists.com. Other great sources of information for event in London include Time Out and The Londonist.
Hey there! Sarah here. Since we first talked about our journey with house and pet sitting in London, a lot has changed. With 2025 in full swing, and as Cooper and I expand our horizons beyond just London, we’ve seen an increasing interest in house sitting jobs UK.
Whether you’re a seasoned traveller, a digital nomad, or someone looking for a cosy staycation, there’s something here for everyone.
House Sitting Jobs UK: The 2026 Landscape
In the vibrant and ever-evolving world of house sitting across the UK, it’s thrilling to see how the scene has adapted. This is especially for those embracing the digital nomad lifestyle or remote working trends. In today’s connected world, the opportunities for UK house sitting are more diverse and exciting than ever.
For starters, let’s talk about local stays. No matter where you are in the UK, from the bustling streets of London to the serene countryside, local house sits are a treasure trove waiting to be discovered. When Cooper and I first dived into TrustedHousesitters, we focused on local sits around London. This was more than just a stepping stone; it was a gateway to building a trove of delightful experiences.
Local sits offer a unique chance to explore new neighbourhoods, providing a refreshing change of scenery without straying too far from home. And let’s not forget, it’s a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the local culture, even if it’s just for a weekend. For those of you on TrustedHousesitters, remember, setting up an alert with your availability and preferred location is key.
Embracing Short Term House Sitting Adventures in the UK
Now, onto the short-term sits. These are perfect for those spontaneous getaways or making the most out of holiday seasons like Easter, summer, and Christmas. We’re talking about roughly two weeks of immersing yourself in a new environment. And guess what? You don’t even have to worry about accommodation costs!
Keep your eyes peeled for those daily alerts from TrustedHousesitters. And here’s a little tip from us: if you see a sit with over ten applicants, why not see it as an opportunity to discover somewhere new instead? Our mantra for 2024 is all about going with the flow and embracing new experiences and destinations.
Long Term: Dive Deep into the Local Vibe
Speaking of new experiences, let’s chat about long-term house sits. As Cooper and I dive deeper into our slow travel ethos, we’ve come to appreciate the value of long-term stays, which we define as over two weeks. These opportunities are not just about having a place to stay; they’re about truly living in a new location and establishing a routine. It’s also about nurturing our digital business in a fresh environment.
In our adventures, we’ve found a rich variety of long-term house sitting jobs UK, from quaint country homes to lively city apartments. Some require a car, but our preference is always for those where we can walk everywhere, just like our memorable stay in Northampton. If you’re considering a long-term sit, it’s vital to ensure the place suits your lifestyle and needs, from transport to local amenities.
House Sitting With or Without Furry Friends
Now, let’s talk about one of the best parts of house sitting – the animals! Cooper and I have an undying love for dogs. But, whether it’s cats, horses, or even reptiles, there’s something incredibly rewarding about caring for pets.
On platforms like TrustedHousesitters, you can filter your search based on the type of animals you’re comfortable with or opt for sits without pets. Just remember, only commit to what you’re experienced in or willing to wholeheartedly embrace.
A Closer Look at Each Type of House Sitting Job in the UK
Local Stays: Ideal for those who prefer staying close to home or exploring new areas within their region. These jobs often involve shorter commitments and can range from weekend stays to a couple of weeks. They are perfect for building a strong local network and understanding different neighbourhoods’ unique characteristics.
Short-Term Assignments: These are typically tied to holiday seasons or specific events. They’re great for experiencing different parts of the UK without the long-term commitment. Short-term sits are often sought after by homeowners going on vacation, offering a perfect way for sitters to enjoy a ‘holiday feel’ in a new location.
Long-Term Opportunities: Suited for those looking to deeply immerse themselves in a new community or live like a local for an extended period. These assignments can last from a month to even six months. They offer stability and the chance to truly integrate into a local setting, perfect for remote workers or digital nomads.
With or Without Pets: Deciding whether to take assignments with pets can significantly change your house sitting experience. Pet sitting can be deeply rewarding and a chance to bond with animals, while no-pet sits might offer more freedom to explore.
The Impact of House Sitting on Travel and Lifestyle
Sustainable Travel: House sitting promotes a form of travel that’s more sustainable and community-oriented. By living in someone’s home and caring for it, you’re participating in a sharing economy that values resources and local experiences over traditional tourism.
Cultural Immersion and Community Building: Long-term house sits, in particular, allow for a deeper cultural immersion than typical travel. They offer a unique opportunity to become part of a community, understand local customs, and make lasting friendships.
Personal Growth and Flexibility: The diverse experiences gained through different house sitting jobs can lead to significant personal growth. It fosters adaptability, problem-solving skills, and a deeper understanding of various lifestyles and perspectives.
Affordable Travel and Lifestyle: Particularly for digital nomads and remote workers, house sitting provides an affordable way to see the world. It reduces living expenses, allowing for a more flexible and potentially more fulfilling lifestyle.
The Community Spirit in House Sitting
In our journey so far, we’ve met some incredible people – both homeowners and fellow sitters. Everyone seems to share the same ethos: a love for animals, a passion for travel, and a kindred spirit of adventure. This community aspect has been a highlight for us, creating connections and friendships that last beyond the duration of a sit.
Final Thoughts: Your Adventure Awaits in 2026
As we continue our journey exploring all the house sitting jobs UK has to offer, we hope this post has inspired you. Whether it’s discovering hidden gems in your own backyard or venturing further afield, the world of house sitting is full of possibilities.
We’d love to hear from you. Share your thoughts, questions, or even your own house sitting stories. Drop us a line below, and let’s share our experiences.
We had such a lovely time discovering dog friendly Margate! It’s a town nestled on the southeast coast of England in Kent – one that has seen a revival as a sought-after seaside destination.
For years, this town has seamlessly blended traditional British seaside allure with modern arts and culture. We were drawn to its magnetic charm, and our recent visit reaffirmed why it’s a must-visit. A snapshot into dog friendly Margate is here:
Margate highlights
Turner Contemporary: A Modern Art Haven
Starting off our journey, one of our first stops was the Turner Contemporary, a beacon of modern art on Margate’s seafront. Named in honour of the 19th-century artist J.M.W. Turner, who was enamoured with Margate’s unique light, this gallery showcases a plethora of contemporary visual arts from global artists. Interestingly, with ever-changing exhibitions, there’s always something fresh and intriguing to witness.
Dreamland: A Nostalgic Adventure
Following that, another highlight is Dreamland, a vintage amusement park that has graced Margate since the early 1900s. After undergoing its recent restoration, Dreamland now boasts retro rides, roller discos, and lively music events. The park’s nostalgic ambiance captivated us, especially the iconic Scenic Railway wooden rollercoaster. It’s an absolute must-ride!
Margate’s Seaside and the Enigmatic Shell Grotto
Transitioning to a more relaxed vibe, strolling along Margate Main Sands was a serene experience. This sandy beach, ideal for sunbathing and swimming, is complemented by a promenade dotted with quaint shops, cafes, and restaurants. However, the real surprise awaited us at the Shell Grotto. Discovered in 1835, this subterranean passage is adorned with intricate seashell mosaics. The grotto’s origins remain a mystery, making it an even more intriguing attraction.
On a side note, our experience here was a hit on social media – check it out!
Old Town and Dog-Friendly Spots
Initially, we couldn’t resist exploring Margate’s Old Town, a treasure trove of independent shops, galleries, and eateries. The best part? Moreover, the best part? Most of these spots are dog-friendly! Our little Westie, London, was more than happy to accompany us, basking in the sun and enjoying the warm ambiance of the town.
A Sunset to Remember
Subsequently, we wrapped up our Margate adventure with a breath-taking sunset, echoing those at Cafe Mambo, Ibiza. Along with many others, we perched on the newly constructed stairs along Margate Harbour’s seafront, absorbing the mesmerising hues of the setting sun.
Margate boasts a plethora of activities, establishing itself as a perfect getaway. Its art galleries, beaches, and the enigmatic Shell Grotto cater to diverse interests. If you seek dog-friendly spots, Margate delivers. We eagerly anticipate our next visit!
Hi, we’re Sarah & Cooper. Welcome to Travel Live Learn! We’re Aussie expats currently living in the UK (for the third time!) with our adorable Westie, London. Our mission? To inspire you to embrace a life of adventure—whether it’s travelling longer, relocating to the UK or Europe, or exploring the freedom of remote work and digital nomadism. Enjoy your time on our site! We'd love to stay in touch: subscribe for our weekly stories, updates and remote work job opportunities direct to your inbox.
TLL SHOP!
Grab our guides:
Master House Sitting with Our Must-Have 101 Essentials eGuide! Buy It Here
And, 7 Essential Strategies for Maximising Your Use of ChatGPT eBookBuy it here
Also, Visit Our Amazon Storefront! Shop Here!
To provide the best experiences, we use technologies like cookies to store and/or access device information. Consenting to these technologies will allow us to process data such as browsing behavior or unique IDs on this site. Not consenting or withdrawing consent, may adversely affect certain features and functions.
Functional
Always active
The technical storage or access is strictly necessary for the legitimate purpose of enabling the use of a specific service explicitly requested by the subscriber or user, or for the sole purpose of carrying out the transmission of a communication over an electronic communications network.
Preferences
The technical storage or access is necessary for the legitimate purpose of storing preferences that are not requested by the subscriber or user.
Statistics
The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for statistical purposes.The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for anonymous statistical purposes. Without a subpoena, voluntary compliance on the part of your Internet Service Provider, or additional records from a third party, information stored or retrieved for this purpose alone cannot usually be used to identify you.
Marketing
The technical storage or access is required to create user profiles to send advertising, or to track the user on a website or across several websites for similar marketing purposes.
