Jaw-dropping photos of the 'Queue of all Queues' as people pay respects to Queen Elizabeth
The photos are astounding. Thousands and thousands have flocked to the capital city to pay their respects to Queen Elizabeth, who died on 8th September 2022. Her coffin, as tradition and protocol demands, is now lying in state at Westminster Hall, and will be until Her Late Majesty's funeral on 19th September.
The queue (and all the photos you see here) winds its way around central London, south of the river, starting at the Albert Embankment/Lambeth Bridge and ending...? Well, that entirely depends on the day. In fact, there is even an official live tracker on YouTube to see how the queue develops.
As the queue stretched its way along the Southbank, there is no doubt the views are spectacular for those waiting. Giving time and beauty to reflect and appreciate Her Majesty, Her reign and Her service.
Of course the queue is seemingly unending, meaning many have to wait all day and all night. Capturing these beautiful views at dusk will surely make the wait that little bit easier.
A sign shows the 14 hour mark. However, by Friday morning (16th September), the queue was estimated to be a whopping 30 hours.
Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth was much adored by many. So many, in fact, that it is estimated nearly a million members of the public will queue and pass by Her coffin.
Of course, this is not only a huge security operation, but also a health and safety operation - ensuring the mourners are looked after as they wait day in and day out. Along the Southbank, large screens show remarkable moments of Her Majesty's reign.
The BFI have recorded man documentaries over the years, depicting her life, main events such as her coronation, her jubilees and royal visits. These are played for all those who are filling the streets of London, making their way to Westminster.
Of course, standing in one place (or, at least, not moving very fast) can take its toll on the body. Some members of the public have decided to try out different yoga positions in order to release tensions and stay limber.
Along the Southbank and the river, many small businesses have popped up on wheels, combing through the crowds with refreshments for the people. We have seen cold drinks, coffee stations, street food vendors and even ice cream trucks.
Of course, everything is clearly signposted and, should you wish to join the queue, there is plenty of information as to how to do so. There are even baby changing stations and public toilets along the route. All thought out. The British do queuing very well.
As the queue meanders its way away from the river, in order to pass behind St Saviours Dock, the streets start to fill with people.
There is nothing that seems to stop this incredible queue. The queue continues to wind its way down the passageways below the Bermondsey area. At least casting a little light on those who are still waiting as the sun goes down.
A well known sight here as the queue winds its way past a popular pub in Blackfriars. Those who joined the end of the queue got a wristband which records the time they joined the line. The wristband is constantly checked to allow you to pop out for some food or go to the bathroom - and also to make sure no one is jumping ahead and everyone is queueing responsibly.
The queue got so out of hand that the gates into Southwark Park were closed, preventing anyone from joining the end of the queue.
The queue reached capacity and was paused. The public can keep checking the official live feed for more information before travelling to join the queue. But if the waiting time is still over 30 hours, it's possible it may not reopen at all. Many wishing to see the late Queen lying in state have had to turn back.
Those who had already joined the queue may now even count themselves as lucky, to get the chance to pay their respects to Her Late Majesty.
This is the sombre scene that shows those who have already made it to the doors of Westminster Hall. The public file down in two lines to walk past Her Majesty's coffin.
The British public are mourning. The grieving visitors can be seen in their thousands as they enter the Hall, clearly affected by the solemn surroundings and the emotion of finally seeing Elizabeth's coffin.
The public are surely exhausted from their long queueing and being on their feet for not only hours, but days. Their view is simple. Soldiers in ceremonial uniform who maintain a constant, 24-hour vigil around the Queen’s casket while Her Majesty lies in state.
Queen Elizabeth II was the longest reigning monarch and served her country in duty and in service. So many people wish to pay their respects, pray and wish Her Majesty peace as she finally rests. It seems a lot of people have been able to do so.