London Photo Gallery - Art Exhibitions & Special Events

Still Suited and Booted - Pearly Kings and Queens Exhibition (September 2025)

Just next to Trafalgar Square, St Martin-in-the-Fields has a huge crypt that has been transformed into a cafeteria and gallery. On show is an exhibition about the Pearly Kings and Queens' 150th anniversary.

The organization was born in 1875 with a group of 8 pearly families, 1 for each borough in London. You would typically see them at major events such as royal weddings with their outfits covered in mother-of-pearl buttons. They evolved from market traders who wore mother-of-pearl buttons on their clothes to distinguish themselves, who would elect a leader (king or queen). Today, pearlies help raise money for charity.