Mourners’ three-mile queue
PEOPLE COULD WAIT FOR 12 HOURS TO SEE THE QUEEN LYING IN STATE
MOURNERS visiting the Queen’s lying in state at Westminster Hall are being warned of possible overnight queues due to the sheer amount of people wishing to pay their final tributes to Britain’s longest reigning monarch.
People are being told to expect that they will need to stand for potentially 12 hours with few chances to sit down as queues will be continuously moving.
Waiting times are likely to last hours and people are advised to wear clothing suitable for weather conditions and to bring food and drink. Other essentials people are being recommended to bring with them include medication and a portable mobile phone charger.
There are road closures around the area and warnings have been issued for delays on public transport for anyone making their way to the historic occasion. Whitehall chiefs in charge of logistics for the historic five-night vigil have estimated mourner numbers could be close to that which turned up to view Pope John Paul II.
While Westminster Hall will be open 24 hours a day for four days for crowds to view the Queen’s coffin, “insiders” reportedly said people may have to wait up to 12 hours in a three-mile-long queue.
The Queen’s lying in state was due to commence on Wednesday September 14 at 5pm and be open 24 hours a day until 6.30am Monday September 19.
Visitors should also expect security similar to that found in airports and can only bring along with them one small bag per person with a single opening or zip.
Flasks or water bottles, except clear water bottles and flowers or other tribute items (flowers only should be taken to the dedicated area in Green Park) should not be brought to the Queen’s lying in state.
Nor should sharp items including knives, personal defence equipment or weapons, paint sprays, padlocks, chains, climbing gear and any dangerous or hazardous items, fireworks, smoke canisters or other items which could cause a disturbance or noise, coolers, hampers, sleeping bags and other camping equipment or non-foldable pushchairs.
Visitors are being advised to remain silent once inside out of respect and to dress appropriately – including avoiding clothes “with political or offensive slogans” as such items are banned.
Visitors will be asked to turn their phone off or to make sure it is on silent mode so noise is kept to a minimum. The use of mobile phones inside the security area or the Palace of Westminster is prohibited, as is filming and photography.
Transport for London has advised people to check before travelling to memorial events.
Andy Byford, London’s Transport Commissioner, said: “Our thoughts are with His Majesty The King and all members of the Royal Family following the death of Her Majesty The Queen. Thousands of people from all over the UK and beyond are expected to make their way to London to pay their respects. We are working with our partners to keep our city moving smoothly and to ensure that everyone who is planning to attend the memorial events can do so safely.
“Roads and public transport in central London will be very busy, so we advise everyone to allow plenty of extra time for their journeys and to avoid driving where possible. All Londoners and visitors to the capital over the coming days should check before they travel using the latest real-time travel information, which is available on our TfL Go app and on tfl.gov.uk.”