The King won’t be on horseback for this year’s Trooping the Colour.

Charles III will arrive at Horseguards Parade by carriage rather than riding there on horseback.

In 2023, the first Sovereign’s Birthday Parade of his reign, King Charles rode to the spectacular ceremony along the Mall. It was the first time the Monarch had ridden a horse for the event since 1986, when Queen Elizabeth II last rode at Trooping.

In 2024, The King chose to arrive by carriage as he was in the earlier stages of treatment for cancer which had only been diagnosed at the start of the year.

Since then, His Majesty has recommenced a full diary of engagements and started carrying out overseas visits as well. However, he will stick with his approach to Trooping and travel there by carriage this year.

The Sunday Times reports the decision signals that King Charles, 76, won’t ever ride in the procession again.

The Prince of Wales will ride in the royal procession to Horseguards for Trooping. The Duke of Edinburgh will also be on horse for the event.

Trooping the Colour will also mark a return to public horse riding for the Princess Royal who will take part in the parade in her role as Gold Stick.

Princess Anne hasn’t been seen on horseback since last summer when she was taken to hospital after being found with head injuries at her home at Gatcombe. Doctors later said the wounds were consistent with being kicked by a horse. The Princess, who remained in hospital for several days, says she has no recollection of the events that led to her injuries.

Trooping the Colour takes place on June 14 at Horseguards Parade. The Royal Family are expected to attend in full and make a balcony appearance after the ceremonial which sees Number 7 Company the Coldstream Guards troop their colour, or regimental flag.