State Opening of Parliament
 

We will be in London on November 26th - the day of the State Opening of Parliament. Can anyone tell me the best place to view the Queens procession? I think my children, ages 5 & 9 will really enjoy this!

Thanks!

It doesn't normally attract that dense a crowd (we're all at work and it's not a busy time for tourists). Here's a photo of a recent one http://www.army.mod.uk/ceremonialand...parliament.htm

Go almost anywhere along The Mall. If the crowds are thick (V unlikely) a good place is Duke of York's steps, at the east end of The Mall, on the north side just before Admiralty Arch. The steps go up at right angles to the processional route, so you can see over the heads of the crowd.

Otherwise, ask the police around Horseguards Parade where the best view is likely to be. Seriously. They're there to help.

Not to be daft about it, but is it worth trying to see it up at St Stephen's where the Lords and Bishops join in?

I don't know, you understand; just asking.

The Army website agrees with Sheila:
http://www.army.mod.uk/ceremonialand...parliament.htm

Though I rather assumed security would keep people away from Parliament....

Be prepared to put the children on a pair of adult shoulders!

ttt

how about the men in the red Santa Claus outfits? where do you see them?

Assuming you don't mean the other great attraction of this time of year (to which the answer is, any Oxford St store and lots of others besides) but rather the members of the House of Lords, I think the answer must be 'on TV' since everyone other than HMQ and her immediate party has to be ready and waiting for her, and they usually put on their robes inside the building (I shouldn't think the hire shop would let them wear them on the bus).