What are the British Army's colors?

The colours of the British Army

When you see a ceremonial parade of the British Army, two flags often take centre stage—the King's or Queen's Colour and the Regimental Colour. These aren't just decorative banners; they are powerful symbols of a regiment's identity, loyalty, and history.

The King's or Queen's Colour is typically a Union Flag, richly bordered with gold and emblazoned with the regiment’s crest at its heart. It represents the soldiers’ allegiance to the sovereign and is treated with the utmost respect. This flag is often carried with solemn pride during state events and military ceremonies.

In contrast, the Regimental Colour is more personal to the unit. Its background colour usually reflects the traditional collar colour of the regiment’s uniform—a nod to historical distinctions between regiments. At its centre lies the regimental crest, surrounded by a circle of names and dates known as battle honours. These mark the significant campaigns and victories the regiment has fought in over the centuries, serving as a proud reminder of its legacy.

Each Colour is carefully preserved and, when no longer fit for service, is usually laid up in a cathedral or chapel in a moving act of remembrance. Losing a Colour in battle was once considered the greatest disgrace, while defending it was a point of immense honour.

Today, while the battlefield role of these flags has faded, their symbolic power endures. They connect modern soldiers to generations past, embodying courage, sacrifice, and unity. In every thread and tassel, the history of the British Army lives on.