In recent days, discussions about the queen’s close relationships have circulated widely. The report mentions Isabella in Scotland and scenes observed on Edinburgh streets from Friday to Sunday. These accounts show a mixed mood among Scots toward the crown, with a sizable minority expressing concern about monarchy’s relevance to England. A YouGov poll indicates that 42% of Scots view monarchy positively for England, while 22% oppose it, marking the most pronounced regional divergence on the island, with rates of 54% and 13% observed elsewhere.
Commentators note that Balmoral’s and Windsor’s legacies may influence current perceptions, shaping public sentiment as the nation faces rites of passage, including proclamations and public commemorations. An Edinburgh native who identifies as monarchist suggested that Scotland remains integral to the United Kingdom, emphasizing a broader sympathy toward the royal family than some critics acknowledge.
The crowd gathered along the procession route as the royal coffin was carried from the official residence in Scotland, with the ceremonial path extending toward St Giles Cathedral. Many attendees saw the moment as a chance to pay respects, regardless of how visible the crowd appeared in the square and along Royal Mile, which connects Holyrood to St Giles. A local resident described herself as 100% monarchist and expressed that proximity to the event mattered more than spectacle.
The Queen’s four children
After 14:30 local time, the royal procession moved past the palace with the queen’s four children accompanying the royal party. The King, the Princess Royal, and Princes Andrew and Edward were present, along with Vice Admiral Tim Laurence. The queen consort and other members followed in a separate vehicle.
A 15-year-old resident of Edinburgh, Isla, attended with her mother’s blessing to witness a historic moment. A nearby observer, Fiona from East Ayrshire, described the moment as deeply sad and recalled a long affinity with Queen Elizabeth. Tears surfaced as she reflected on the queen’s long reign and the enduring symbolism embodied by the monarchy.
Those documenting the day included a photo caption noting members of the Royal Guard securing Elizabeth II’s coffin at St Giles Cathedral in Edinburgh.
The day also drew people from beyond Scotland, including a Glasgow native now living in Switzerland who planned to travel to another funeral. He said the monarchy offers stability because a king is seen as above partisan politics and as a unifying figure, reflecting on the queen’s ties to Balmoral as an element of national identity.
Religious rites and public reflection
Visitors and tourists joined the national observances, with some expressing varied feelings about the event. A Mexican resident living in London described the proceedings as chaotic because city streets were closed and transit was disrupted, even though the plans had been laid for some time. He called the moment historic but said the personal loss felt by many was profound, noting that the anticipated future reigns could shape opinions in the years ahead.
Following the parade, royal family members and officials, including the Scottish First Minister and the British Prime Minister, attended a religious ceremony at five o’clock to honor the queen. The royal party later returned to Holyrood Palace to meet the first minister and receive condolences from the Scottish Parliament. In the evening, the royal family planned to remain in Edinburgh to participate in additional ceremonies, with the coffin scheduled to travel to London for a state funeral next Monday.