The crowning of Richard II took place at Westminster Abbey, a traditional site for British royal coronations. Richard, the son of Edward, the Black Prince, was the grandson of Edward III, who had reigned for over fifty years before his passing. The young King Richard ascended to the throne amidst a backdrop of political tension and change, as England faced various challenges following the long rule of his grandfather. During the ceremony, various elements of the ritual emphasized the divine right of kings and the role of the monarch in English society. Richard was anointed with holy oils, donned the royal regalia, and took an oath to uphold the laws and rights of his kingdom, a practice that solidified the notion of kingship deeply rooted in a divine mandate.

Attending the coronation were key figures of the English nobility, establishing the importance of support from the aristocracy during his reign. The event was marked by elaborate festivities, including feasting and jousting, showcasing the wealth and grandeur of the English monarchy at the time. Despite the pomp and ceremony, Richard's youth meant he would require the guidance of regents, which led to certain power struggles and political intrigue during the early years of his reign. The coronation, therefore, symbolized not only the start of his rule but also foreshadowed the challenges he would face as a minor king, having to navigate court politics as well as the broader socio-political landscape of England.