Crowds begin to gather in London ahead of the coronation of King Charles

LONDON — Crowds from all over the world are beginning to gather in London ahead of the Saturday coronation of King Charles.

One week to go!

As Their Majesties’ Coronation draws closer, a new picture has been shared of The King and The Queen Consort in the Blue Drawing Room at Buckingham Palace. Taken by Hugo Burnand. pic.twitter.com/rECK5i04hK

— The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) April 28, 2023

A group of diehard royal fans have already staked out their spots along the path to the palace, where they say they'll be camping on the sidewalk to ensure they get the best view.

We have today released the words and music of the Vivat acclamations which will be sung at the #Coronation of Their Majesties The King and The Queen Consort in the Abbey on Saturday. pic.twitter.com/SRv2pYoG9I

— Westminster Abbey (@wabbey) April 30, 2023

Maria Scott, from northeastern England, says she doesn't want to miss a single moment of the atmosphere, even if this coronation is expected to be more scaled back than Queen Elizabeth's was.

A Canadian flag is among those fluttering above the road leading to Buckingham Palace, where metal barricades have been set up to contain the crowds.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is expected to be among the Canadians making the trip to London for the coronation, which will also be attended by a group of First Nations leaders from Manitoba.

RCMP members on horseback will also ride in the procession that will bring King Charles and Camilla, the Queen Consort, to Westminster Abbey for Saturday's coronation ceremony.