A New Chapter in London's Ancient Tradition
History was made on Saturday 8th November 2025 as the City of London's Lord Mayor's Show transformed into the Lady Mayor's Show for the very first time. This landmark change marks a significant moment in the event's more than 800-year history, reflecting the election of Dame Susan Langley DBE as the 697th Lord Mayor of London.
While Dame Susan represents the third woman to hold this prestigious position, she stands as the first to embrace the title 'Lady Mayor', creating a historic milestone within the City's civic traditions that dates back centuries.
The Spectacle of Tradition Meets Modern Vision
The magnificent parade, originating from the early 13th century, followed its traditional three-mile route from the mansion house to the Royal Courts of Justice and back. This year's event featured an impressive display of civic pride with approximately 7,000 participants, 200 horses, and over 50 decorated floats representing livery companies, military bands, charities, and corporate floats from leading Square Mile firms.
The state coach carrying the Lady Mayor remained the ceremony's centrepiece, enabling her to swear allegiance to the sovereign - a requirement for mayors since 1215. Dame Susan used this prominent platform to outline her vision for modernising the City's image while continuing to champion its financial and professional services sector.
"The Square Mile... to me, square is slightly old-fashioned. The City is innovative, and my aim over the next year is to un-square the Square Mile," she declared, signalling a fresh approach to the City's identity and future direction.
Business and Social Impact Take Centre Stage
The show brilliantly demonstrated how commercial interests can align with meaningful social impact. Mission Aviation Fellowship made a striking impression with a 10-metre-wide aircraft float and interactive display, showcasing how their flights reach remote communities worldwide.
RAF veterans involved with MAF participated in the parade, creating powerful connections between the City's commercial vitality and charitable engagement. This blending of business and social responsibility reflects the evolving character of London's financial district.
The Lady Mayor's Show, celebrated as the world's oldest civic procession, continues to serve as a premier event for the City of London. For business leaders, investors, and stakeholders, it provides a unique opportunity to witness the Square Mile's corporate, charitable, and civic communities converging in a single, spectacular day.
