Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
Manchester Evening News
Manchester Evening News
National
Beth Ure

Queen lying in state - the items you are banned from taking and what you should bring

The government has released guidance for people attending the Queen's lying in state, including listing the items people are banned from taking.

It is expected that there will be very long queues to attend, with the possibility of having to queue overnight, so mourners should be prepared to stand for many hours, and won't be able to sit down as the queue will be continuously moving. Visitors will also have to go through airport-style security, and there are tight restrictions on what items will be allowed in.

Visitors will be allowed one small bag per person, which must be smaller than 40cm x 30cm x 20cm, with one zip for security to check quickly. There will be a bag-drop facility for those who need to bring larger bags, but this will have limited capacity, and waiting for bag storage space to become available will increase your queuing time.

READ MORE: Anti-monarchy protester with crude sign taken away by police at proclamation of King Charles III

Other banned items include flasks or any water bottles except clear water bottles, which must be empty, and food or drink, as all food and drink must be consumed or disposed of before security. Mourners are encouraged to bring water and snacks to consume while in the queue.

Flowers or other tribute items are also banned, and floral tributes only should be taken to the dedicated floral tribute area in Green Park. Similar to an airport, you cannot bring sharp items, personal defence equipment or any object that could be used as a weapon and/or compromise public safety, including personal defence sprays.

Mourners at the gates of Buckingham Palace following the death of Queen Elizabeth II (Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)

Paint sprays, padlocks, chains, climbing gear, fireworks, smoke canisters, air-horns, flares, whistles, laser devices, and other items that could be used to cause a disturbance or noise are also banned. Similarly banners, placards, flags, advertising or marketing messages, and other similar items that could be used to cause a disturbance.

Coolers, hampers, sleeping bags, blankets, folding chairs and camping equipment that people may wish to bring for the queue will not be allowed into the Palace, or non-foldable pushchairs.

The government has also advised people dress appropriately for the weather, and check the forecast ahead of time. They also suggest bringing a portable phone charger, and any essential medication or equipment that you need to keep with you.

READ NEXT:

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.