The Coronation of King Charles in May 2023 cost taxpayers £72 million, with the Department for Culture, Media, and Sport (DCMS) spending just over £50 million, and policing costs amounting to almost £22 million, covered by the Home Office. The total cost fell within unofficial estimates, which predicted expenses between £50 and £100 million.
The event, described as a “slimmed-down” affair compared to Queen Elizabeth II’s 1953 Coronation, reached a global audience of two billion people across 125 countries. However, it faced criticism due to its timing during a cost-of-living crisis, with some public opinion polls showing opposition to taxpayer funding for the event.
The Coronation was funded through the UK Government, the Sovereign Grant, and private money from the Duchy of Lancaster. Despite its celebration of national identity and showcasing the UK globally, campaign group Republic called it a “pointless, archaic parade,” arguing that the money could have been better spent, such as on free school meals.
Notable figures at the ceremony included Prince Harry, who attended alone, and a star-studded concert at Windsor Castle featured performances by Lionel Richie, Katy Perry, and Take That.