Travel
Visiting London Following The Queen’s Death
Visiting London in the next couple of weeks? Here’s our guide on what to expect following the Queen’s Death.
It was with great sadness that the United Kingdom, and the world, learned of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s passing on Thursday 8th of September. The Queen was the longest reigning British monarch, ruling for seventy years, with a fascinating and full life. She was ever present and for many, the only monarch they have ever known. Not only did she have a huge impact and influence on the United Kingdom, but many other countries around the world.
Living through the Second World War, she chose to actively help out war efforts. However, at the age of just 25, her father died suddenly resulting in her taking on the role of Queen.
Dedicating her entire life to serving the United Kingdom, she had been a constant shining light, throughout almost every significant event in recent years.
From welcoming heads of state to being a patron to hundreds of charities, while celebrating the births and marriages of the rest of the Royal Family, she was indeed a British icon. And as many have already said, “We will not see her like again.”
With such a significant event for the monarchy, England continues to face a period of mourning – with its many changes, especially in the two weeks following her death. The famous ‘London Bridge Is Down’ operation has already kicked off.
London will see a variety of unexpected changes over the next two weeks that will affect those currently in the city or planning a visit.
The Funeral
The Queen’s funeral will take place at Westminster Abbey on Monday 19th September. While no specifics have been confirmed, it has been announced that this will be a bank holiday, affecting many shops and businesses.
As the coffin will be processed from Westminster Hall to Westminster Abbey, many central London streets will likely be closed on this day. Preceding this, streets may also be closed at the beginning of the week following the Queen’s death, when the coffin is transported from Scotland to London, and after the funeral when it will make its final journey to Windsor Castle.
Shops, Supermarkets & Businesses
Shops have mainly stayed open following the Queen’s death, although you may see many have tributes in store or their window displays. It is under the discretion of each individual shop as to whether they close, however we will certainly see a number shut during this time. Both Selfridges and Liberty closed on Friday 9th September, however, have since reopened, but again, they may likely decide to shut on the day of the funeral.
On the bank holiday, many shops will either be shut or have reduced hours and banks will be closed. Other attractions will confirm their decisions in the coming week, but businesses associated with the Royal Family, such as London Zoo and Kew Gardens have already said they will be closed over the bank holiday.
Sports Matches
For the many local fans and those who may be visiting to see sports matches, checking in advance is essential. Almost all matches were cancelled for the weekend immediately following the announcement, and it has been confirmed all fixtures will also be cancelled on the day of the funeral.
This has officially been announced for football matches, while other sporting associations have not confirmed their approach.
Transport
Transport for London will remain largely unaffected throughout the mourning period, however, there will be some changes to buses and trains.
There were originally national rail strikes planned for the 15th & 17th of September, as well as the 26th & 27th of September, however, these have been cancelled out of respect.
While London tubes and buses will be running over the next two weeks, you can expect them to be extremely busy and crowded, particularly on the day of the Queen’s funeral and the preceding weekend, when many people may travel into the city to pay their respects. Some buses may not run at all, as streets will be closed and hundreds of thousands of people are expected to turn up for the day.
London Attractions
Some London attractions, such as theatres, could be impacted by the news. At the Royal Albert Hall in West London, the final two nights of the annual Proms were cancelled for the first time since the war. Other theatres and shows haven’t announced any cancellations, although many are holding a minute’s silence during shows.
On the day of the funeral, you may want to consider that West End theatres may decide to cancel or reschedule productions. There is no word yet on what some of London’s most significant sights, such as the London Eye, Tower of London and museums will decide to do, but they will likely close for the day on Monday 19th or at least have reduced hours.
Where to Stay in London
You can expect London to get very busy in the lead-up to the Queen’s funeral, with thousands of people already congregating each day outside of Buckingham Palace to pay their respects and leave flowers. If you’re planning a visit, whether you’ve already sorter the details, or planning a short business trip, hotels will almost certainly be full.
For maximum convenience and flexibility, staying at a Nestor property in West London will allow you to be in the heart of the city. While many of our properties’ neighbourhoods, such as Notting Hill and Kensington, are quiet, you will still be within walking distance from Buckingham Palace, the Palace of Westminster and Westminster Abbey should you want to stop by.
To take advantage of our best rates, book one of our properties directly on our site for your most comfortable stay.