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What are the rules when visiting the Queen at Westminster?

The official guidance for people visiting the Queen lying-in-state has revealed extensive rules for the public to abide by. 

It is important to know what you can and can’t bring, as those wishing to see the Queen will face airport-like security and 30-hour queues. 

The queues to see Her Majesty are expected to be around five miles, the equivalent of 89 football pitches, but could rise up to 10 miles.

Sleeping bags and chairs for the queue are a great idea but people cannot bring these items into the palace of Westminster. 

Other prohibited items include tribute items such as flowers, candles and soft toys, as well as banners, placards, flags and other marketing messages.

Westminster will ban food and drink, telling people they should bring clear water bottles only.

Strict rules surround bag size, with only one small bag allowed per person, no larger than 40cm x 30cm x 20cm. 

Clothes with political or offensive slogans, queue jumping and excessive drinking will not be tolerated. 

Security is preparing to remove people from the queue if they flout the rules. 

Officials will check wristbands at the end of the queue and only those with wristbands can stay to stop people queuing on the behalf of others.  

The government assure step-free access is available and guide dogs will have permission to enter.

Officials have asked mourners to respect the solemnity of the occasion, and also pleaded for no selfies with the coffin and say you cannot bring marmalade sandwiches. 

To find a comprehensive list of what you should know when visiting the Queen’s lying in state, visit the government website.

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