| Where: | London at the Guildhall Yard |
| When: | Saturday in Mid July |
| Time: | 10.30 am until 1pm approx. |
During the annual cart marking ceremony, around 50 vehicles, of all types from horse-drawn wagons to bicycles, steam engines and modern vans, line up to be branded with a hot iron showing that they are licensed to operate within the City of London. A fee of five shillings is collected in a large leather purse from the driver before the marking of their conveyance commences, and a number of dignitaries use the branding irons to brand the vehicles in turn (all the while protected by special gloves donated by the Worshipful Company of Glovers which are presented before the vehicles arrive). It’s one of the largest events in the city calendar, and visitors can just turn up on the day to enjoy the spectacle. In the old days it was easy for the brands to mark wooden vehicles – this is more of a challenge on metal frames and for the more modern conveyances a block of wood is specially attached to show the marks. Expect richly attired officials and an outstanding array of vehicles. Branding is carried out by the Worshipful Company of Carmen, and the custom is believed to be one of the earliest forms of vehicle registration in the world. After all the marking is complete, the vehicles all parade through Guildhall Yard.
Helpful Hints
In 2024 it was on Saturday 20th July- 2025 date is yet to be confirmed but likely to be 19th .
In the past it was usually on a Wednesday but moved day from 2021 when it was postponed to Saturday 18th September- in 2022 it returned to July but remained on the new day of the week. The official timing for the entire event is until 4pm but this includes the lunch for invited guests only- the ceremony itself lasts until around 12.30.
All are welcome and there is no charge for visitors. Programmes are available (free but donation of £5 requested in 2024).
Click here for the Carmen’s website: http://www.thecarmen.co.uk
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