Anzac Day is a solemn and special occasion for Aussies and Kiwis; perhaps even more so for expats who like the Anzacs 103 years ago found themselves on foreign shores, so far away from home.
The Anzac Day Dawn Service in London at Hyde Park Corner is one of the most heavily attended commemorative events held outside of Australia and New Zealand, with thousands of expats coming together to remember the fallen. In 2018, the main ceremony will be taking place at the NZ Memorial (alternating each year with the Australian Memorial) and be attended by Prince Harry and his fiancée Meghan Markle.
After the Dawn Service is a formal Wreath Laying Ceremony and Parade at the Centotaph in Whitehall followed by a Service of Commemoration and Thanksgiving at Westminster Abbey. For both of these events, complimentary tickets are required.
If you are in London, get up early and get along to Hyde Park for the Anzac Dawn Service to pay your respects – it will be an emotional experience you won’t forget.
On Anzac Day, Wednesday 25 April 2018, commemorative ceremonies in London are as follows:
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Location: New Zealand Memorial, Hyde Park Corner
The main service will take place at the New Zealand Memorial on Hyde Park Corner. The service will be approximately 45 minutes in length and is open to the public. Arrival from 4.00am is suggested. Entry point details will be provided once confirmed.
Location: The Cenotaph, Whitehall
Following a march onto Whitehall, a requiem is read and at 11.00am the High Commissioners for New Zealand and Australia will lay the first wreaths. Wreaths are then laid by representatives of the UK government, High Commissioners and Ambassadors, as well as representatives from various service and ex-service organisations.
Arrival by 10.30am is recommended. The service will conclude at approximately 11.15am, allowing time for the short walk to Westminster Abbey.
Location: Westminster Abbey
The Service of Commemoration and Thanksgiving to mark ANZAC Day commences at 12.00 noon. Guests must be seated by 11.45am and the service will last approximately one hour.
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*Complimentary tickets are required for the Wreath Laying Ceremony and Parade at the Cenotaph and the Service of Commemoration and Thanksgiving at Westminster Abbey.
Ticket applications for 2018 are now closed.
Event information courtesy UK.Embassy.gov.au