London's spectacular Pride parade is underway, with hundreds of thousands of people lining the streets as tens of thousands march through the capital. The parade, which began at midday from Hyde Park Corner, passes major landmarks including Piccadilly Circus and Trafalgar Square before finishing at Whitehall around 6pm.
Parade Kicks Off with Bikers and Rainbow Flags
The parade started with dozens of bikers displaying rainbow flags, transgender flags, and signs. The route heads south down Haymarket and through Trafalgar Square to the finale at Whitehall. Spectators are advised to use Tube stations such as Bond Street, Charing Cross, Embankment, Leicester Square, Oxford Circus, Tottenham Court Road, and Victoria for the best viewing spots.
Mayor of London Shows Support
Mayor Sadiq Khan attended the event, sporting an England FC t-shirt ahead of England's World Cup match against Mexico. In a post on X, he wrote: "Happy Pride, London!" and added: "Today at Pride in London, we’ll show the world that love will always triumph over hate."
London Bids for WorldPride 2032
Pride In London has confirmed its bid to host WorldPride 2032, marking the event's 60th anniversary. Rebecca Paisis, interim CEO and Co-Chair of the WorldPride Bid, said: "Pride began as protest, and that spirit remains at the heart of everything we do. Marking 60 years since London’s first march by hosting WorldPride 2032 would give us the opportunity to welcome the world to our city."
Six Stages of Entertainment and Activism
Six stages are set up across the capital. Grammy-nominated singer MNEK headlines the main stage at Trafalgar Square alongside Beth Ditto and Meek. The women and non-binary stage at Leicester Square features performers including Jordan Gray and Professor Emeritus Sue Sanders. The trans and non-binary stage at Soho Square is curated by Mzz Kimberley, with performances from Dr Helen Webberley and others. The cabaret stage on Dean Street will announce the Drag Idol UK Winner. The global majority stage at Golden Square celebrates diversity, while Victoria Embankment Gardens hosts a family and youth zone.
Police Warn of Zero Tolerance for Hate Crime
Deputy Assistant Commissioner Jon Savell stated: "Our priority is to provide a visible, proportionate and effective policing presence that is ready to respond swiftly to any incidents. There will be no tolerance of hate crime – we urge anyone who is a victim of it to speak to an officer immediately so we can take action." A heavy police presence is deployed across the capital, with an estimated 1.5 million attendees expected.
Road Closures and Travel Advice
Extensive road closures are in place across Westminster and the West End. Attendees are advised to plan travel in advance using TfL Go or Journey Planner, as the event coincides with BST Hyde Park, Wimbledon, and major concerts. Temperatures are expected to reach 28°C, and organisers urge attendees to bring sunscreen, water, snacks, ID, and a portable charger. The parade starts at 12pm and ends around 6pm.
This Year's Theme: Many Voices. One Front.
The campaign highlights four critical issues: healthcare rights for transgender people, Black and Brown queer visibility, chosen family rights, and a call to end hate crime. London Pride was first held in 1972, inspired by the Stonewall Riots. The Mirror is an official media partner for the event.
