How to join the queue to see the Queen Lying in State
Queen Elizabeth II’s coffin is now in Westminster Hall. Members of the public have been able to drop in since the afternoon of September 14, with the hall remaining open until the morning of September 19, the day of the Queen’s funeral. After the state funeral is over, the coffin will be transferred to Westminster Abbey for the official state funeral.
People queue along the Southbank as tens of thousands line up to see Queen Elizabeth II lie in state at Westminster Hall on September 14Getty Images
Hundreds of thousands of people are expected to line up to come and pay their respects in the coming days. Here’s everything we know.
Where can I queue for lying in state?
The queue begins where Albert Embankment (on the south side of the River Thames) meets Lambeth Bridge in central London. From here the snake meanders along the south bank of the Thames. You can find the latest information on where the back of the queue is by checking the official live tracker on YouTube.
How long is the queue for the Queen’s Lying in State?
At the time of writing (Thursday, September 15, noon) the line is approximately four and a half miles long.
What is the waiting time for the Queen’s Lying in State?
Mourners may have to queue for up to 30 hours to reach the front and get past the coffin at Westminster Hall.
How many people will see the Queen’s coffin?
At the moment it is not known how many people will come by the morning of September 19th. In 2002, 200,000 people registered for the Queen Mother’s handover. Estimates of the number of people paying their respects at Westminster Hall over the following days range from 400,000 to 1 million.
A large queue stretches along the River Thames opposite the Houses of Parliament in the early hours of the morning as mourners join the queue to pay their respects to Queen Elizabeth II while lying in Westminster Hall in LondonGetty Images
What facilities are available along the queue route?
There are first aid stations, public toilets and water stations along the route of the queue. A full map of the route with facilities marked can be found at gov.uk.
How can I see the laid out queen?
The UK government website warns that anyone wishing to see the Queen in state should be prepared to queue for many hours, possibly overnight, and expect to be standing for much of that time. There are delays in local public transport and road closures.
Anyone wishing to join should proceed to the end of the queue, where they will be given a wristband that will record when they have entered the queue. Don’t lose the bracelet – it will be checked several times along the queue route. You can exit the queue for a short time to use the restroom or get water or refreshments and rejoin the queue where you left it.
Is there an accessible way to get in line to see the Queen Lying in State?
Yes. A stepless route is available for those who require an accessible queue. After boarding in the back row, anyone unable to use steps should stop a steward when a sign indicates they are approaching steps. A steward guides you around the steps via an accessible path and helps you rejoin the queue at your previous seat.
What can I take with me to see the Queen Lying in State?
There are restrictions on what you can take with you. Only one small bag is allowed – anyone carrying a large bag that exceeds the restrictions (i.e. larger than 40cm x 30cm x 20cm) will be directed to a bag drop. Everyone goes through airport-style security before entering Westminster Hall. You cannot bring bottles or water bottles (except one clear, empty water bottle), flowers or tributes, camping gear and some other items into Westminster Hall. A full list of prohibited items can be found at gov.uk.