Queen Elizabeth II passed away at 96, and tributes are underway across the United Kingdom. Plans for a state funeral and public commemorations are moving forward at the Palace of Westminster in London, where hundreds of thousands are anticipated to pay respects to the late monarch in the coming days.
A funeral procession is scheduled to begin at 14:22 local time (13:22 GMT), with the royal coffin carried from Buckingham Palace toward the heart of government at Westminster. The route traces a path from the royal residence to the parliamentary precinct, marking a solemn journey that mirrors decades of service to the nation.
King Charles III and other members of the royal family will participate in the procession, following the casket as a symbol of national continuity after the reign that spanned seventy years. The coffin is to be placed within the Palace of Westminster at 15:00 local time (14:00 GMT) and will be guarded around the clock by members of units dedicated to the Royal Household.
Public access to the ceremonial space is set to begin at 17:00 local time (16:00 GMT), with the state chapel opening to visitors ahead of the funeral. Authorities expect close to 400,000 mourners to visit in the days leading up to the funeral, which is scheduled for Monday, marking a historic moment of national remembrance.
30 hour queues
Britain’s cultural minister, Michelle Donelan, noted that long queues are anticipated, potentially stretching up to 30 hours for some entrants seeking to view the memorial setting. The government has urged visitors to come prepared for lengthy waits while stressing that every effort will be made to ensure comfort and safety along the route and at the venue.
Donelan emphasized that the authorities are coordinating accommodations to improve the experience for the crowds. Media outlets have highlighted the need for openness with the public so people can make informed decisions about when to attend, according to reports from major broadcasters.
As part of the public commemoration, cultural institutions along the route will participate in the tribute. Some galleries and historical venues plan to illuminate their façades with imagery of the late monarch. Cafés and pubs will provide hospitality services at nearby facilities, and a network of portable toilets has been arranged to service the routes and gathering points, ensuring basic comfort for attendees throughout the period of remembrance. The overall aim is to create a respectful, accessible, and orderly tribute that reflects the nation’s respect and gratitude for a long era of service.