Hello All, We are going to be in London from June 2 through June 6, continuing on to other parts of the UK after. My question is, What should we expect in London as there are two bank holidays and events for the Queen's Diamond Jubilee. We will be staying near Paddington Station I expect that we will want to see, if possible, the Themes River Pagent. I expect there will be large crowds. Is this something that we will need to arrive at the river early in the morning to stake out a viewing spot or is there plenty of space to arrive somewhat before noon? I understand that the event covers a large portion of the Themes through London, are viewing locations easy to come by? Is the river bank accessable pretty much anywhere? Also, how does the bank holiday affect museum hours, store hours and transportation schedules? Thanks
Posted by
New York City, NY, USA
5678 posts
I can't help with the museum hours etc, but expect to find a lot of the British themselves to be on holiday that week. I work for a British company and made the initial error of planning a meeting for that Tuesday. I was carefully informed of the date of the Jubilee. When I suggested that we might meet later in the week, I was told that it would just be smarter to put the meeting off until the next week. ; ) So, I doubt if they will all be in London, but a lot of people will be enjoying the week off. ; ) Here's the link to the celebrations that seems to be updated regularly. http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Nl1/Newsroom/Features/DG_WP200687 Pam
Posted by
Eastern Iowa, USA
7945 posts
Tube schedules I believe will operate more like weekend schedules on a bank holiday. Museums will likely see a heavier crowd, as locals and Brits will take advantage of the time off. I would expect heavier crowds that week...but like I experienced during World Cup in some locales, it really only added to the experience rather than ruined it. I would make sure I have a room well ahead.
Posted by
Huntsville
117 posts
Ken, i really have nothing to add except to tell you my family will be in London from 1 - 7 June and we, too, are staying near Paddington Station. Great minds think alike? LOL... Enjoy!
Posted by
London, United Kingdom
4684 posts
Both banks of the river are mainly accessible to the public but good viewing spots will probably need early arrival to stake out, especially on the bridges and on the South Bank. There's not much information as yet but there's an official site at http://www.thamesdiamondjubileepageant.org