London is set to become increasingly busy over the next week as people travel to see Queen Elizabeth II lying in state at Westminster Hall and take part in public gatherings and official ceremonies. There are already reports of hotel price surges, transport delays, and event cancellations, with visitors urged to plan ahead before traveling to the capital.
Is it easy to find accommodation?
London is expecting “unprecedented travel demand” starting Wednesday, September 14, as more than one million people are expected to make their way to the capital for the official ceremonies. If you haven’t yet secured accommodation, expect to pay steep prices for a room. Prices are at their highest since the 2012 Olympics, with some hotels increasing them by more than 300%.
Are museums, restaurants, and shops open?
The UK is in a 10-day period of national mourning that will end on September 19, but it will be business as usual for most places over the next few days. A statement from the government confirms that there is no obligation on organizations to suspend business. However, it’s advisable to check ahead to make sure that opening times haven’t changed, especially when visiting a museum or cultural establishment. The Royal Collection Trust has closed all six of its sites during the mourning period.
On September 19, the day of the state funeral, widespread business shutdowns are expected with many retailers and service providers closing their doors. Even the National Health Service (NHS) is canceling appointments on that day.
Will events be canceled?
Yes. If you are traveling to the UK for a particular event not connected to the queen’s passing, your plans will likely change. All major sporting events will be canceled on the weekend of September 17 and 18. Additionally, any major events, including film festivals and Pride celebrations, have been scaled back or canceled outright.
Will trains run? Can I expect transport disruptions?
Transport disruptions are likely across the UK, particularly in London and Edinburgh where many official ceremonial arrangements are taking place. Access to some areas in the city center will be restricted as crowds gather to commemorate the queen. It is expected that crowd control measures will be implemented to ensure safety.
Despite planned industrial action being canceled, train and bus schedules will be impacted throughout the mourning period. Advance planning will be essential, as London will be exceptionally busy and some Tube stations may temporarily close to avoid overcrowding.
While airports and flight schedules shouldn’t be affected, trains and buses to London’s airports may experience delays and overcrowding.
How can I take part in commemorations?
The state funeral is taking place at Westminster Abbey in London on the 10th day of mourning, which is Monday, September 19. Prior to this, people have opportunities to commemorate the queen at various events and gatherings across the UK.
On Tuesday evening, the queen’s coffin is set to be flown to London, where it will first be taken to Buckingham Palace. A procession will take the coffin on a gun carriage on Wednesday from Buckingham Palace to Westminster Hall, where it will lie in state for five days.
The British government has issued guidance for anyone planning to visit parliament, advising that attendees should expect to stand for many hours, possibly overnight. It’s important to reconsider bringing young children due to long waiting times, and to bring food and drink as well as any necessary medications. Attendees will be subject to security screening, and larger bags can be left at designated facilities with limited capacity.
Where can I leave flowers?
Buckingham Palace has become a focal point for people to congregate since her passing. Any flowers left at the Palace gates are being moved to nearby Hyde Park and the Green Park Floral Tribute Garden, which is also becoming a gathering point for visitors.
What about the coronation of King Charles?
This major event will likely take several months, potentially not occurring this year. Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation took place 16 months after her accession in 1953, indicating that her son’s coronation will also take time. Although details are still pending, it will likely be a major event filled with tradition and ceremonial elements.
How do I approach discussing the queen with people in the UK?
While sentiments in the UK vary significantly, this will be an extraordinary time to be present in the country. People will engage in shared experiences, and expect comprehensive media coverage of funeral arrangements and discussions regarding the queen’s legacy.
The royal family symbolizes various aspects of modern UK life. When discussing the queen’s death, approach the conversation with sensitivity, keeping in mind the diverse perspectives on monarchy and tradition. While royal sites will be busy with tributes, many people will continue to focus on daily life and current concerns such as energy bills and inflation.
This article was initially published on September 9, 2022, and updated on September 13, 2022.
