Following the death of Queen Elizabeth II, the days leading up the monarch's funeral will be full of tradition as the nation mourns. A timetable has been set, which will allow members of the public to pay their respects and contribute to remembrance books across the country.
As The Queen is returned to the capital, arrangements have been made for the public to say their last farewell, should they wish to do so. Her Majesty The Queen's closed coffin will be Lying-in-State inside Westminster Hall in the Palace of Westminster from 5pm on Wednesday, September 14, 2022.
However, if you'd like to visit, there are some things you'll need to know. Here's everything we know so far and what to expect.
On Monday, September 12, King Charles III, along with other members of the Royal Family, will travel with the Queen's coffin to St Giles' Cathedral in Edinburgh. The following day, Princess Anne will then make the journey to Buckingham Palace with her mother's coffin.
READ MORE: King Charles III proclamations delivered across Nottinghamshire
On Wednesday, September 14, The Queen will be Laid in State for four days and on the fifth day, Monday, September 19, her funeral will take place at Westminster Abbey London.
How to attend The Queen's Lying-in-State
Where
The Queen’s closed coffin will be placed in the Palace of Westminster (also known as the Houses of Parliament). It rests on a raised platform called a catafalque. Westminster Hall is one of the oldest parts of the Houses of Parliament.
When
You'll be able to visit from 5pm on Wednesday, September 14. There are no closing times in the days leading up to the funeral, it will be open 24-hours a day until it closes at 6.30am on Monday, September 19. Be aware that the queue may close early to ensure as many visitors as possible can enter the Palace before the Lying-in-State period comes to an end.
What if I have access needs?
Step-free and accessible options will be available for those who need them. Guide dogs, hearing dogs and other official assistance dogs are permitted within the Palace of Westminster.
Expect queues
Following the death of the Queen Mother in March 2002 there were reports of mourners queuing for hours, one reporter even quoted up to 24 hours. An estimated 200,000 people paid their respects as the Queen Mother Laid-in-State.
It has already been announced that if you wish to attend the Lying-in-State for Queen Elizabeth II that you should expect long queues so be prepared to stand for many hours, possibly overnight, with very little opportunity to sit down as the queue will be continuously moving.
Stewards and police officers will patrol the queue and antisocial or inappropriate behaviour will mean that you will be removed from the queue.
What happens on the day
When you join the queue you'll be given a wristband that you will have to return at the end of your visit. Only those with a wristband will be able to stay in the queue so you won't be allowed to hold a place for late comers. Visitors will go through airport-style security and there are tight restrictions on what you can take in. Only small bags are permitted and just like airline restrictions, that small bag can be no larger than 40cm x 30cm x 20cm. Large bags will need to be left at the bag drop facility although this facility has limited capacity.
During your visit, you will be expected to file past the catafalque to pay your respects. You won't be allowed to bring in tributes or flowers, however, floral tributes can be taken to the dedicated floral tribute area in Green Park.
You will be expected to dress and behave appropriately for the occasion so no clothing with political or offensive slogans. Phones must be turned off or switched to silent
Once inside the Palace of Westminster, you should remain silent. There is no filming or photography allowed inside.
Plan your journey
Large crowds are expected so there are likely to be delays on public transport and road closures around the area. Check ahead and plan accordingly.
Also, take a snack and a drink for the queue. You may be waiting a very long time and there are limited places to buy refreshments along the route so make sure you pack something to keep you going - but remember to eat and drink it before you get to the security point. Items are not allowed inside the Palace of Westminster.
READ NEXT:
