Celebrate the King’s birthday in style—with drinks that wear a crown of their own.
Every June, the King’s official birthday gives us a perfect excuse to indulge in a bit of pageantry. But this year, why not take your celebration up a notch with cocktails inspired by royalty itself?
Royalty and alcohol have long gone hand in hand—from medieval feasts in candlelit castles to royal receptions at Buckingham Palace. Monarchs have been known to enjoy a good tipple. Queen Elizabeth II famously favoured a Dubonnet and gin before lunch, while Prince Charles (now King Charles III) reportedly prefers a martini made just the way he likes it: strong and no-nonsense.
In the spirit of royal indulgence, here are some cocktails that bring history, elegance, and just the right amount of sparkle to your glass.
1. The King’s Cup
Inspired by Pimm’s—a staple at Wimbledon, Ascot, and just about every royal summer event—this is the go-to cocktail for British garden parties and sunlit terraces.
Royal Connection:
Pimm’s has been a high-society favourite since the 1840s, often served at events attended by the royal family. It’s refreshing, refined, and perfectly patriotic.
Ingredients:
- 50ml Pimm’s No. 1
- 100ml lemonade or ginger ale
- Sliced cucumber, strawberries, orange, mint
- Ice
Method:
Fill a tall glass with ice and fresh fruit. Add Pimm’s, top with lemonade, and garnish with mint. Best enjoyed with a fancy hat.
2. The Royal Martini
Simple, suave, and timeless. While James Bond may have made the martini famous, the royals made it dignified. This drink is the choice of a monarch who likes their evenings calm and their cocktails clean.
Royal Connection:
King Charles is said to prefer his martini dry, with a very specific ratio of gin to vermouth. No fuss, just classic British craftsmanship in a glass.
Ingredients:
- 60ml London dry gin
- 10ml dry vermouth
- Lemon twist or green olive
Method:
Stir (or shake, if you dare) with ice, strain into a martini glass, and garnish with regal simplicity.
3. Coronation Royale
Bubbles, flowers, and a touch of gold—this cocktail is fit for a coronation banquet. Elegant and aromatic, it’s made for making toasts.
Royal Connection:
Elderflower has long been associated with British countryside charm. Paired with Champagne, it evokes images of royal weddings, coronation luncheons, and those sparkling tiaras.
Ingredients:
- 25ml elderflower liqueur
- Chilled Champagne or prosecco
- Edible gold flakes (optional)
Method:
Pour elderflower liqueur into a flute, top with Champagne, and add a dash of gold if you’re feeling decadent. Long live the fizz!
4. The Crown Jewel Negroni
Bold and beautifully bitter, this drink is not for the faint-hearted. But like the monarchy itself, it’s enduring, iconic, and unmistakably striking.
Royal Connection:
Named in honour of the Crown Jewels, this ruby-hued drink is worthy of any velvet-draped royal affair. Serve with gravitas.
Ingredients:
- 25ml gin
- 25ml sweet vermouth
- 25ml Campari
- Orange twist
Method:
Stir with ice, strain into a rocks glass, and garnish with an orange slice. Sip slowly—this one commands respect.
5. The Windsor Garden (Mocktail)
For those abstaining or keeping it family-friendly, this sparkling mocktail delivers all the royal charm without the spirit. Fresh, vibrant, and royally inclusive.
Royal Connection:
The name pays tribute to Windsor Castle, the family home of British monarchs for over 900 years. Perfect for little lords and ladies—or a sober sovereign.
Ingredients:
- 50ml cranberry juice
- 25ml orange juice
- Sparkling water
- Lime wedge and berries
Method:
Shake juices with ice, pour into a highball, and top with sparkling water. Garnish like royalty.
Royal celebrations aren’t just about waving flags—they’re about tradition, elegance, and a touch of ceremony. With these cocktails (and mocktails), you can capture that same spirit in every sip.