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How to visit the Queen’s grave at St George’s Chapel in Windsor

Elizabeth II was laid to rest alongside her mother, father, sister and late husband Prince Philip

Getting a bit of déjà vu? Normal life in  London – and much of the UK – pretty much came to a standstill as the  Queen ’ s funeral  took place at Westminster Abbey last September. And today pretty much the same thing has happened. 

The King’s coronation is in full swing at Westminster, with central London now pretty much on lockdown as royalists and curious people come to have a gawp at the new monarch. The whole thing is a bit weird, but definitely interesting. And it also may have you got feeling a little misty-eyed about our previous sovereign, Elizabeth II. 

Her funeral last year culminated in a committal  service and private burial at the King George VI Memorial Chapel (part of St George’s Chapel in Windsor Castle) in the evening.  The Queen was buried  alongside her mother, father and sister. The body of her late husband Prince Philip was also removed from the Royal Vault to be laid next to Her Majesty. Now, a ledger stone has been laid and members of the public are able to visit her grave. Here’s everything you need to know if you want to pay your respects.

RECOMMENDED: Here’s the full schedule for the King’s coronation

Will you be able to visit the Queen’s grave at Windsor?

Windsor was said to be the Queen’s favourite home (even over Buckingham Palace) and is the longest-inhabited royal castle in the world. The property is estimated to be worth around £235 million.  But many have been wondering whether this means they will be able to visit Windsor to see the Queen’s t omb.

The general public are permitted to visit St George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle.  There are three services a day at the chapel, and worshippers can go to any of them. Outside of the services, visitors can visit on Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, but you have to pay. On Sundays, general visitors aren’t allowed but worshippers are welcome to attend the service. The chapel has a capacity of 800 people.  

You can book your trip to Windsor Castle on the Royal Collection Trust website .

Read more: here’s  everything you need to know about the King’s coronation .

And:   what time is King Charles’s coronation and how long is it?

Plus:  the coronation concert line-up has finally been revealed .

Oh, and: how much is the coronation actually going to cost?

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

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In the line to see Queen Elizabeth II, mourners make history and friends

Rachel Treisman

This portion of the line ran between the National COVID Memorial Wall and the Thames River, with a view of the Houses of Parliament on the other side. Rachel Treisman/NPR hide caption

This portion of the line ran between the National COVID Memorial Wall and the Thames River, with a view of the Houses of Parliament on the other side.

LONDON — Hundreds of thousands of mourners from across and beyond the United Kingdom are waiting more than 10 hours on foot for just a few precious seconds with the late Queen Elizabeth II — the only monarch most have ever known, and the last queen of England many are expecting to see in their lifetimes.

On Friday, the line — referred to in England as the queue — to see the queen lying in state at Westminster Hall hit five miles and had to be paused, as wait times stretched towards 24 hours. The separate accessible queue closed permanently the next day after reaching capacity.

Mourners are waiting for hours in a 5-mile queue to say farewell to Queen Elizabeth

The public had been promised long days, chilly nights and sore calves, but still showed up. More than a dozen devotees NPR spoke to in line and at the hall's exit all agreed that the experience, however draining, was well worth it.

"It's been really strange actually, because if you tell a Brit that they're going to be queuing for that long, they'd rather say 'Why ?'" laughs military veteran Chris Jay, about 10 and a half hours into her wait. "But obviously the queen [is] such an important part to many people in the U.K. and especially those that have been in the armed forces and served and given the oath of allegiance to the queen. I just felt compelled to come down here."

The line to see the queen's casket got so long, organizers kept people from joining

Some people came from other parts of the U.K. and Europe, others traveled from places as far away as Canada and the U.S. Their precise motivations and feelings about the monarchy varied, but they shared much in common: appreciation for the queen's dedication, eagerness to participate in history and a mix of uncertainty and optimism about the future of the monarchy under King Charles III.

After exiting Westminster Hall, Debbie, Stephen and Ashleigh Harvey (L to R) said they were headed to the pub to toast the queen. Rachel Treisman/NPR hide caption

After exiting Westminster Hall, Debbie, Stephen and Ashleigh Harvey (L to R) said they were headed to the pub to toast the queen.

"Everyone was in really high spirits," said Ashleigh Harvey as she finally exited the hall after about 13 hours. "I think so many people were honored to be here for however long it was going to take in the queue, and everyone had accepted that and was more than happy to wait as long as it took just to pay our respects."

The mood was mournful but also joyful, as people gathered together to celebrate the queen. Some dressed for the occasion, like the rugby coach wearing a Union Jack button-up vest and the history buff dressed as a 17th-century royalist, cloak and all. And despite the reported safety issues and crowding concerns , many line-goers bonded with their neighbors and described the shared sense of community as a highlight of their experience.

Stephen Hansen was dressed up as a 17th-century royalist. He estimated he had already walked some 22,000 steps in his leather boots. Rachel Treisman/NPR hide caption

Stephen Hansen was dressed up as a 17th-century royalist. He estimated he had already walked some 22,000 steps in his leather boots.

"I've made friends in this queue — we've exchanged numbers, we've shared food ... there's a group of us who will meet up after this," says 54-year-old Teresa Bhatti. "We've enjoyed every single second of it."

By contrast, the atmosphere inside Westminster Hall was quiet, serene and reverent, people said. That part of the line went by much faster, with less time to process the inevitable flood of emotions. And at least one woman could be seen wiping tears away as she exited the gates.

Ying Shum and Joe Yuen, who moved to the U.K. several months ago, said they were touched by the experience.

Not everyone mourns the queen. For many, she can't be separated from colonial rule

"Very meaningful, especially [because] we are from Hong Kong," Shum said. "And I think most of the people who came here are willing to spend 10 hours, 20 hours — doesn't matter, because the queen has already spent 70 years for her service."

The moment is historic but also personal

People praised the queen for her contributions to the country, particularly for doing her duty for so many years and for being a reliable and reassuring presence in both good and bad times.

She has been a feature of millions of peoples' lives, from bank notes to military medals, explains Bryan Hunt, a civil servant in the Home Office who has been volunteering on the line.

Hunt says he briefly met the queen at a garden party several years ago — he vividly remembers how special she made him feel, as well as "her piercing blue eyes and how tiny she was."

Sandra Napier, who decided to join the line while on a pre-planned visit from Northern Ireland, said the queen wasn't only beloved at home but around the world as an ambassador. She was especially moved by the queen's 2012 trip to Northern Ireland, when she shook hands with former IRA commander Martin McGuinness in what Napier described as a significant gesture of reconciliation and peacemaking — something she said the world still needs.

"The world is in a bit of a precarious situation post-COVID, economically, Ukraine-wise, and I think this has really given people a positive focus and coming together," she says of the event.

Teresa Bhatti, far left, said she was looking forward to meeting up later with some of the new friends she met in line. Rachel Treisman/NPR hide caption

Teresa Bhatti, far left, said she was looking forward to meeting up later with some of the new friends she met in line.

Some people said they braved the long hours because they wanted to participate in an event that will be remembered for generations to come. Everyone had their reasons, and for some, it was largely emotion.

"I just feel as though I need to be here for her," Bhatti said.

People will miss the queen, but are optimistic about her successor

It's hard for people to imagine England without a queen, now and for the foreseeable future. Many described King Charles III as having large shoes to fill, but say they're reassured that he's been preparing for this responsibility for decades.

Rosie Beddows, who was in line with her husband and son, says she thinks that with Camilla by his side, Charles will take the country forward in a perhaps more environmentally friendly manner. And she thinks William and Kate will make a "stunning" prince and princess of Wales and future leaders.

"I think the monarchy is in a very strong position, and if you just look at this queue, this is what monarchy means to the British public," she says, a comment echoed by many others.

Heather Labanya, 39, joined the queue at 7 a.m. on Friday. Some nine hours later, she spoke to NPR about how she reconciles the queen's legacy with that of the British Empire. Rachel Treisman/NPR hide caption

Heather Labanya, 39, joined the queue at 7 a.m. on Friday. Some nine hours later, she spoke to NPR about how she reconciles the queen's legacy with that of the British Empire.

Of course, not all Britons support the institution , which (especially younger) people see as antiquated and colonialist.

Heather Labanya, who is half Zambian, acknowledges there are a lot of views of the monarchy in the U.K. and says she has personally worked to separate the queen from the institution that she represented.

In particular, she mentioned that independence fighters, including the first president of Zambia — a former British colony — had respect for the queen and her role in its democratization.

"I've always felt able to hold the understanding of all these composite parts," she adds. "But the way my parents also raised me was to try to look forward and continue to hold that rich history that we do have as a family, as a culture, with a forward looking at how can we rebuild a future that includes everybody."

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How and when you can visit the Queen's final resting place

The late monarch has been buried.

Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II has been buried at Windsor Castle alongside her late husband Prince Philip , here's how and when you can visit her final resting place…

READ:  The touching tribute to Queen Elizabeth II that you might have missed

On Thursday 29 September Windsor Castle is reopening its door to the public after a period of mourning for the late monarch. Visitors will be able to tour parts of the late Queen's home, including where she is laid to rest.

WATCH: See the new stamps released in honour of the Queen 

The Queen's coffin has been buried in the  King George VI memorial chapel inside St George's Chapel, and as part of a standard ticket to view the castle, entrance to the chapel will be granted.

The King George VI memorial chapel is an annex to the main chapel and was added to the north side, behind the North Quire Aisle in 1969.

Her Majesty has been laid to rest 

Queen Elizabeth II's father, King George VI, and her mother Queen Elizabeth are buried in the memorial chapel – hence the name. Her Majesty's sister Princess Margaret's ashes are in the chapel too.

A special black stone is set into the floor, with the Queen's name now added with her year of birth and year of death.

St George’s Chapel has also been the location for happy memories within the royal family, including the wedding of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex  in 2018 and  Princess Eugenie and Jack Brooksbanks' 2019 nuptials. King Charles III and Queen Consort Camilla were also married in the chapel.

The chapel is now open 

Adult tickets for Windsor Castle admission are £26.50-£28.50, while children's tickets are priced between £14.50-£15.50. Under fives can enter the royal residence for free.

Visitors will not be able to see the Queen's Platinum Jubilee display when they come as the exhibit has now closed in light of the monarch's sad death on 8 September.

Other royal residences once belonging to the Queen have now reopened including parts of Buckingham Palace and the Palace of Holyrood.

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Queen Mary in Long Beach: The Complete Guide

Things to Do

Hotel queen mary, tips for your visit.

TripSavvy / Christian Hundley 

On your next trip to Long Beach, California, you should stop by the cruise ship that never moves—the Queen Mary.

Originally built in 1937, the ship had a long and fascinating 30-year career before making its 516th and final voyage to Long Beach, California, on Dec. 9, 1967.

Since then, the Queen Mary has been docked in the Long Beach harbor and converted into a hotel and tourist attraction, which some even believe to be haunted. Guides' voices echo in the now-empty engine room, where 27 boilers once generated 160,000 horsepower. In fact, the ship has been in Long Beach longer than it sailed the oceans and is now known as an icon for its home city.

Bigger, faster, and more powerful than its predecessor, the Titanic, the RMS Queen Mary had a long career with 1,001 successful Atlantic crossings. Built at the John Brown shipyard on the Clyde, Scotland, in 1937, the Queen Mary held the record for the fastest-ever North Atlantic crossing.

It carried the rich and famous across the Atlantic for three years in great luxury. During World War II, it carried troops. Afterward, the ship ferried war brides and children to the United States and Canada before returning to service as a transatlantic cruise ship.

In 1967, the ship's owner, Cunard, sold the Queen Mary for $3.45 million. After the boat's final voyage, it became permanently docked in Long Beach and has been there ever since.

It may not be as enormous as today's mega-cruise liners, but the Queen Mary is an elegant reminder of a bygone era. 

The least expensive way to see the ship is the self-guided tour which takes visitors over the 1,020-foot-long Queen Mary, from the engine room to the wheelhouse. Unfortunately, the tour route is poorly marked, and the big ship can be pretty intimidating when toured on your own. You may get more out of your experience if you take one of their guided tours. 

They offer several themed tours, which change from time to time. One of the most popular is Ghosts and Legends of the Queen Mary, which dramatizes paranormal and historical events aboard the ship. You can also take tours in the evening, including haunted explorations and midnight ghost tours led by paranormal experts. You can see a list of current tours on the Queen Mary website .

The Scorpion, a Foxtrot-class Russian submarine, is moored just below the Queen Mary's bow. A tour of the cramped quarters and military conditions (78 crew shared two showers and three toilets) provides an interesting contrast to the Queen Mary in size and luxury.

Events at the Queen Mary

Every Halloween, the Queen Mary is home to Dark Harbor , an intense Halloween experience that features haunted mazes, a 4D theater experience, and live monsters and entertainment.

The ship also hosts seasonal and holiday celebrations, mystery murder dinner shows, a Scottish festival, and other events. You can find their upcoming events on their website .

The ship isn't just a tourist attraction, it doubles as a hotel as well. With authentic wood-paneling, original artwork from the 1930s, and time-appropriate styled decor, you can easily imagine yourself on a transatlantic journey along with Charlie Chaplin, Clark Gable, and others. The ship includes 347 staterooms and suites, all of which come with standard amenities.

The smaller rooms are reasonably priced but can be a bit dark. For a taste of the luxury of a bygone era, splurge on a Deluxe Stateroom or a Royalty Suite.

• The Queen Mary is open daily, and a reservation is not required for a regular tour.
• There is an admission fee, as well as a parking fee.
• Allow a few hours for a leisurely tour, as there's a lot to see.
• Take a guided tour for a more efficient and educational experience.
• Grab a map on your way in. Certain things, including elevator stops, are labeled in ship jargon, but the map makes things easy to understand.

Related Articles

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What you need to know if you plan on queuing to see the Queen lying in state

Members of the public are lining up along the Thames before entering Westminster Hall to bid farewell to the monarch.

Wednesday 14 September 2022 18:30, UK

People who wish to see the Queen lying in state have been warned to brace for long queues and observe strict rules.

The Queen is lying in state in Westminster Hall, with the doors open 24 hours a day.

Her Majesty's coffin will spend four days in Westminster Hall before the state funeral at Westminster Abbey on Monday.

Watch our live stream as the Queen lies in state

This is what you need to know if you wish to see her coffin.

The route begins on Albert Embankment, next to Lambeth Bridge, before snaking down the River Thames to Southwark Park - a distance of more than four-and-a-half miles.

Those in the queue will pass famous landmarks including the London Eye, National Theatre, Tate Modern and HMS Belfast.

You can expect:

• Extra toilets and water fountains made available along the route • The Southbank Centre, National Theatre and BFI Southbank extending opening hours to provide refreshments • Cafes and other local businesses to stay open longer • More than 1,000 volunteers, stewards and police officers on hand • BFI Southbank to show archive footage of the Queen on an outdoor screen

What should you expect if you visit?

Visitors go through airport-style security and those waiting will be issued with numbered wristbands, allowing them to leave temporarily to use nearby portaloos or to buy supplies.

Regular updates on queue length, estimated waiting time and when it closes are being provided on government social media accounts.

The entire route has step-free access. However, a separate route begins at Tate Britain, where timed entry slots are issued for those who need them.

Click to subscribe to the Sky News Daily wherever you get your podcasts

Government advice urges those with pre-existing medical conditions to "check the guidance, plan accordingly and be prepared for significant wait times, including possibly overnight".

It adds: "Members of the public are also urged to check for travel updates, plan their journey and check times for last services."

Guide dogs, hearing dogs and other official assistance dogs are allowed into Westminster Hall, and British Sign Language interpreters will be available.

It is understood that no proof of disability will be required for those wishing to see the Queen's coffin.

Stewards are asked to look out for anyone struggling, and take a pragmatic approach in assisting them.

What can you take in with you?

There is a strict bag policy, with each person allowed one small bag only.

It must be smaller than 40cm x 30cm x 20cm, with a simple opening or zip.

Anyone who has to bring a bigger bag will have to leave it in a drop facility - but space is limited and there is no guarantee of storage.

There are limited places to buy food and drink along the queue route, so the public are encouraged to bring their own supplies. But they must be consumed, or disposed of, before entering the palace.

A portable mobile phone charger is advised.

What items are banned?

Flasks or water bottles are not allowed, unless they are clear.

Flowers and other tribute items, including candles, soft toys and photographs are also prohibited.

Flowers only should be taken to the dedicated area in Green Park.

Sharp items, paint sprays, padlocks, chains, climbing gear and any other hazardous items are banned.

Banners, placards, flags, advertising or marketing messages are not allowed either.

All camping equipment - including coolers, hampers, sleeping bags, blankets and folding chairs - are not to be brought, as well as non-foldable pushchairs.

Extra facilities along the way

An army of 1,000 dedicated volunteers, including more than 100 scouts, stewards and Metropolitan Police officers will be on hand to help, alongside facilities including toilets and water fountains.

But take advantage when you see them, as staff involved in the logistics told Sky News they were worried there would not be enough, saying: "There will be queues within the queues to get to the portaloos.

"There might be a lot of crossed legs. I would advise people to have very little liquid. It's a practical issue."

St John Ambulance will operate eight stations along the route to provide first aid if it is needed, and there will be emotional support from the Samaritans and the Salvation Army.

There will be welfare support from the Red Cross, and Lambeth Palace will arrange a street pastor multi-faith service.

Read more: William and Harry to walk with King behind Queen's coffin Accompanying Queen on final journeys 'honour and privilege' - Princess Anne

How must you behave?

People are warned to "respect the dignity of this event" and remain silent in the Palace of Westminster.

Antisocial behaviour, including queue-jumping, excessive consumption of alcohol or drunken behaviour will not be tolerated.

People are warned not to film, take photographs or use mobile phones in the security search area or within the palace.

You cannot bring tents or gazebos, or light barbecues or fires.

London should be dry from Wednesday until the funeral, the Met Office has said, with less than a 10% chance of rain.

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NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

Westminster Hall location, history and how to visit the Queen lying-in-state

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After a historic 70-year reign, Queen Elizabeth II died on September 8 , aged 96.

Britain’s longest-serving monarch passed peacefully while surrounded by her family at Balmoral Castle in Scotland, thought to be one of her favourite residences.

King Charles III said in his first address as monarch that ‘the death of my beloved Mother, Her Majesty The Queen, is a moment of the greatest sadness.’

Since her death, the coffin has travelled extensively, starting from Balmoral to Edinburgh, where thousands came out to pay their respects , and finally coming to London.

Her Majesty returned to London on Tuesday evening and then began lying-in-state the day after, ahead of her state funeral on Monday, September 19.

For anyone wishing to pay their final respects, here’s what you need to know.

Where is Westminster Hall?

The Queen will lie-in-state at Westminster Hall up until 6:30am the morning of her funeral.

Westminster Hall, which dates back to 1099, is the oldest building on the Parliamentary estate.

Part of the Palace of Westminster, today, it is the meeting place of the Houses of Parliament.

The full address is 3 St Margaret St, London SW1P 3JX.

Having left Balmoral on the morning of September 11 , the Queen’s cortege travelled through Scotland, arriving at the Palace of Holyroodhouse – the monarch’s official Scottish residence – for an overnight stay, and then onto St Giles’ Cathedral.

Her majesty’s coffin was then flown from Edinburgh Airport to RAF Northolt at 6pm, Tuesday, September 13, accompanied by the Princess Royal.

She was driven to Buckingham Palace, resting in the Bow Room before finally arriving at Westminster Hall to begin lying-in-state on September 14.

What does lying-in-state mean?

Lying-in-state is the formal occasion in which a coffin is placed on view to allow the public to pay their respects before the funeral takes place.

Lying-in-state in the UK is given to the Sovereign, as Head of State, the current or past Queen Consort and, sometimes, former Prime Ministers.

During the lying-in-state period, the coffin rests on a raised platform in the middle of Westminster Hall.

Each corner of the platform is guarded around the clock by units from the Sovereign’s Bodyguard, Foot Guards or the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment.

People who have laid-in-state at Westminster Hall include:

• 1898 – William Ewart Gladstone
• 1910 – King Edward VII
• 1936 – King George V
• 1952 – King George VI
• 1953 – Queen Mary
• 1965 – Sir Winston Churchill
• 2002 – Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother

An estimated 200,000 people visited the Queen Mother as she lay-in-state, according to figures quoted by the official UK Parliament site.

Sorry, this video isn't available any more.

How to visit Westminster Hall and what times can you pay respect to the Queen?

A ceremonial procession took place as the Queen’s coffin was taken from Buckingham Palace to the Palace of Westminster on Wednesday, September 14.

As per Operation London Bridge, Westminster Hall will be open for 24 hours a day, closing at 6.30am on the day of the funeral (Monday, September 19).

Expect long queues – officials are planning for wait times of up to 20 or 30 hours, with queues stretching to five miles. A live tracker lets people see the status of the queue.

There are also airport-style security measures in place , so be sure to read up on what you mustn’t bring and properly prepare before setting off.

Will the Queen have an open casket?

No, there will not be an open casket at Westminster Hall.

The Queen’s coffin will be closed, draped in the royal standard and it will likely have the crown placed on top.

No monarch has had an open casket before, with even Queen Victoria’s casket being closed and draped in a flag back in 1901.

MORE : When does the Queen’s coffin arrive in London as it leaves Balmoral? Day by day journey route

MORE : In pictures: Queen Elizabeth in 70 iconic images after 70-year reign

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How can I visit Queen Elizabeth II's grave? Windsor Castle set to reopen

Public will be able to see the ledger stone marking the tomb where she was interred at st george’s chapel.

September 21, 2022

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The Queen Mary Will Reopen to Visitors With Free ‘Thank You' Tours

The city of long beach announced that guests could enjoy "select elements" of the ship while on a free guided tour; reservations are now open., by alysia gray painter • published december 12, 2022 • updated on december 15, 2022 at 3:59 pm, what to know.

• The Queen Mary has been a Long Beach landmark since 1967; the retired Cunard-White Star ocean liner crossed the Atlantic hundreds of times, starting in 1936, and served as a troopship in World War II
• The ship shuttered in March 2020; the City of Long Beach resumed control of the vessel from Urban Commons in 2021, with a commitment to address the many repairs needed to her hull and elsewhere
• "Select elements" of the Queen Mary will be open to the public starting on Dec. 15, 2022; first-come, first-served reservations may be made online

When facing any challenge, be it large or small, we do sometimes wonder if we will sink or float.

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And, if things are especially auspicious, if we will sail into a brighter future.

That last option is always the option we want, of course, in pretty much every case we face, and in the case of the Queen Mary ?

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The "sail forward" promise of the world-famous ocean liner, a Long Beach landmark that's been in need of a hefty amount of TLC, is becoming clearer by the day.

So clear, in fact, that the City of Long Beach announced on Dec. 12 that "select elements" of the permanently moored vessel will reopen on Dec. 15, 2022.

How to visit these areas? The public is invited to join a series of limited-time guided free tours.

The free tours will serve as a sincere and celebratory "thank you" extended to "... the community for their patience and support during the ship's closure," shared the statement from the city.

Visitors will again be able to stroll a select stretch of the view-blessed Promenade Deck as well as the opulent Observation Bar, as well as a few other picturesque spots on the destination, which has become known for its Art Deco details and stately spaces that seem untouched by time.

Signage will also note what sort of repairs are ongoing around the vessel, bringing guests up-to-speed as to what has been happening since the ship's closure in March 2020.

Shipshape: The Queen Mary Looks to Reopen Later in 2022

A Bright Bounty of Beautiful Bulbs Will Illuminate The Mission Inn

"I am thrilled to welcome visitors back onboard the Queen Mary and share the beauty and history of this landmark with our community once again," said Mayor Robert Garcia.

"I thank our City staff for their dedication throughout the critical repairs process to ensure the ship’s safety and preservation."

Long Beach has been working hard to address those much-needed updates since it resumed control of the ship from Urban Commons, the previous lessee, in June 2021.

Permanently moored in Long Beach since 1967, the Queen Mary was famed as an elegant passenger conveyance over several decades, and as "The Grey Ghost," a troopship, in World War II, where it was also known as Winston Churchill's "headquarters at sea," a place for the prime minister of the United Kingdom to conduct important work while traveling.

Since dropping proverbial anchor in California some 55 years ago, the grand boat has served as a hotel, dining destination, and a place for festivals and special events.

A few large-scale events returned ahead of its reopening, with basketball legend Shaquille O'Neal's Halloween happening taking place just outside of the landmark in October 2022.

The ship's haunted history remains a draw for devotees of the supernatural, and its ghostly reputation will be touched upon in the new tours, too.

You can reserve your spot online now, but the first-come, first-served tours are expected to fill up quickly.

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The Queen of travel

Queen Elizabeth II 1926 - 2022

Queen Elizabeth II leaves Fiji during a royal tour in February 1977. Serge Lemoine/Getty Images

The Queen of travel Journeys of a lifetime

By Francesca Street and Mark Oliver, CNN September 13, 2022

S he was traveling the moment she ascended to the throne, and for much of the next seven decades, Queen Elizabeth II criss-crossed the world. Newly married and still just a princess, Britain’s future monarch was in Kenya with husband Prince Philip in February 1952 when she learned of her father’s death and her new regal status.

During her reign she would visit more than 120 countries, witnessing first-hand the revolutions in global travel that shrank the world as her own influence over it diminished.

The Queen lived through the advent of the Jet Age, flew supersonic on the Concorde, saw regimes change, countries form and dissolve, the end of the British Empire and the rise of globalization.

Here are some of the most memorable travel moments from her 70 years as monarch.

November 24-25, 1953

Less than six months after she was crowned at Westminster Abbey in London, Queen Elizabeth set off on her travels again. Her debut official state trip was an epic six-month tour of the Commonwealth -- the alliance of nations which were once British colonies. Traveling by air, sea and land she visited several countries, accompanied by her husband, Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh. First stop was the North Atlantic island of Bermuda, a British territory she would visit a further four times during her reign. The trip would go on to include stops in Jamaica, Tonga, New Zealand, Australia, Cocos Islands, Ceylon (now Sri Lanka), Aden (now part of Yemen), Uganda, Malta and Gibraltar.

December 19-20, 1953

At Queen Elizabeth’s coronation in June 1953, Queen Salote Tupou III of the Polynesian kingdom of Tonga won over the British public when she sat, rain-soaked, in her open carriage. They also took an interest when Elizabeth returned the visit later in the year. The two queens enjoyed an open-air feast, watched Tongan dancers and admired a tortoise that legend said was presented by explorer Captain James Cook to the King of Tonga in 1777.

December 23, 1953 – January 30, 1954

New zealand.

The Queen voyaged to New Zealand during the Antipodean summer of 1953-4. Over the course of the trip, it’s estimated that three out of every four New Zealanders got a glimpse of her. In preparation for the Queen’s visit, some New Zealand sheep were dyed in the UK flag colors of red, white and blue. The Queen returned to the country nine times over the years, including in 2002 as she marked half a century on the throne.

April 10-21, 1954

Ceylon (now sri lanka).

A visit to Ceylon, now Sri Lanka, coincided with the Queen’s 28th birthday. She visited the city of Colombo where crowds joined together to sing her “Happy Birthday.” She also visited the central city of Kandy, where she watched a procession featuring a reported 140 elephants and met local chiefs.

April 8-11, 1957

The Queen had visited France as a young princess, but her first state visit as monarch was a glamorous affair. She attended the Palais Garnier opera house in Paris, visited the Palace of Versailles, and dined at the Louvre with then-President Rene Coty. The Queen also laid a wreath on the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at the Arc de Triomphe and visited the Scottish Church of Paris.

October 17-20, 1957

United states.

Having met President Harry S. Truman in Washington in 1951 during a visit before ascending to the throne, Elizabeth was no stranger to America when she arrived on her first trip as Queen. Her 1957 visit marked the 350th anniversary of the first permanent British settlement on the continent, in Jamestown. The monarch attended a college football game at the former Byrd Stadium in Maryland where she watched the home team lose to North Carolina. She met with President Dwight D. Eisenhower in the White House and later traveled to New York, where she and Prince Philip drove through the streets and admired panoramic views of the city from the Empire State Building.

February 1-16, 1961

The Queen and Prince Philip visited Pakistan in 1961, arriving in the port city of Karachi after completing a visit to India as part of a wider tour of South Asia. She drove through the streets of Karachi in an open-top car, before going on to visit Lahore, where a torchlight military tattoo took place in her honor and Prince Philip played in a game of polo.

February 26 to March 1, 1961

In Nepal, the Queen inspected troops in Kathmandu and met Gurkha ex-servicemen in Pokhara. The monarch rode on an elephant and visited the Hanuman Dhoka Palace complex in Kathmandu. She took part in the rather grim spectacle of a tiger hunt although didn’t shoot any animals herself. She instead recorded the experience on cine camera – a recording device that she often carried with her on her earlier foreign trips.

March 2-6, 1961

The Queen visited pre-revolution Iran at the end of her 1961 South Asian tour. Hosted by Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, she toured ancient monuments including the ruins of Persepolis, once a capital of the Achaemenid Empire, later declared a World Heritage Site. She also saw Sheikh Lotfollah mosque in Esfahan and admired collections of the Archaeological Museum of Iran.

May 5, 1961

Vatican city.

In 1961, Elizabeth became the first British monarch to visit the Vatican. Dressed all in black, the Queen had an audience with Pope John XXIII, also attended by Prince Philip. She returned to the Vatican three more times during her reign, meeting Pope John Paul II and Pope Francis.

November 9-20, 1961

Bombing incidents in the capital Accra left officials worried about the safety of the Queen’s visit to Ghana but, after deliberation, UK Prime Minister Harold Macmillan confirmed it would go ahead. During the trip, the Queen famously shared a dance with Ghana’s then-president, Kwame Nkrumah. At the height of Cold War uncertainty, this seemingly innocuous moment was seen as significant in ensuring Ghana remained affiliated to Britain and not the USSR.

May 18-28, 1965

West germany (now germany).

The Queen’s visit to West Germany and West Berlin was viewed as a symbolic gesture of goodwill in the post-World War II landscape. It was the first royal trip to German territory for more than 50 years and photographs such as one of the Queen and Prince Philip in a car driving past the Brandenburg Gate had symbolic resonance.

November 5-11, 1968

Queen Elizabeth became the first reigning British monarch to visit South America when she landed in Brazil in late 1968. During the trip, the Queen wore a striking jewelry set made of Brazilian aquamarine, gifted to her in 1953 by the Brazilian president and added to over time. The monarch also attended a football match between Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo, and presented the winner’s trophy to Brazilian footballer Pele.

October 18-25, 1971

On the first of two trips to Turkey -- the second took place in 2008 -- the Queen visited the Gallipoli peninsula to remember the Allied soldiers who died there during World War I. The monarch also explored the ruins of the ancient Greek empire city of Ephesus. A media highlight of the visit came when she was photographed leaping ashore from a barge, after disembarking from her ship, the Royal Yacht Britannia.

February 10-15, 1972

Accompanied by Prince Philip and daughter Princess Anne, the Queen was greeted on arrival in Bangkok by a carpet of flower petals. The monarch was given a golden key to the city of Bangkok, attended a state banquet and visited Bang Pa-In Palace, the Thai royal family’s summer residence, north of the capital.

October 17-21, 1972

The Queen’s visit to Yugoslavia was her first trip to a communist country. The Central European country no longer exists -- the areas that the Queen visited are now part of Croatia. During her trip, she met Yugoslav political leader Josip Broz Tito and traveled on his famous Blue Train.

February 15-16, 1974

New hebrides (now vanuatu).

The Queen and Prince Philip visited the Pacific island archipelago of Vanuatu, then known as the New Hebrides, in 1974. It’s said the royal couple’s visit to Vanuatu may have strengthened the belief among some locals on Tanna island that the Duke of Edinburgh was a divine being.

February 24-March 1, 1975

On her first of two visits to Mexico, the Queen toured ancient sites -- including the pyramids of Uxmal, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The monarch also received local crafts, met school children and attended a banquet. While she was driven through Mexico City, the Queen was showered in confetti.

February 17-20, 1979

Saudi arabia.

In 1979, the Queen became the first female head of state to visit Saudi Arabia, on a tour of Gulf States. At Riyadh Airport, she was met by King Khalid bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, pictured. The outfits she wore on the trip were carefully designed in accordance with Saudi Arabia’s conservative dress code for women. The Queen arrived on a British Airways supersonic Concorde aircraft and during the visit attended camel races and toured the National Museum.

October 26-27, 1982

The Queen visited Tuvalu, a group of nine islands in the South Pacific, in 1982. Upon arrival, the Queen and Prince Philip were carried in a flower-filled canoe from sea to shore. Thirty years later, in 2012, Prince William visited Tuvalu with his wife, the Duchess of Cambridge, who drank a coconut from a tree planted by Queen Elizabeth on this 1982 visit.

February 26 – March 6, 1983

On a star-studded trip to the United States, the Queen toured the 20th Century-Fox studios in Hollywood with then-First Lady Nancy Reagan and met Frank Sinatra, who she’d previously met in the 1950s, at a party given in her honor. The Queen and Prince Philip also visited Yosemite National Park in California, pictured.

November 10-14, 1983

The Queen returned to Kenya in 1983 for a state visit. When she was there 31 years previously, she'd learned that her father had passed away and she had become Britain’s reigning monarch. In 1983, the Queen and Prince Philip revisited the Treetops hotel, pictured, where they were staying at the time she was told the news.

October 12-18, 1986

The Queen’s trip to China was the first -- and, so far, only -- state visit by a British monarch to China. With Prince Philip by her side, the Queen visited the Great Wall of China, pictured, as well as the Forbidden City in Beijing.

October 17-20, 1994

In 1994, in another royal first, the Queen visited Russia. Over the three-day trip, the Queen met Moscow mayor Yuri Luzhkov, pictured here with the monarch outside St Basil’s Cathedral, as well as Russian President Boris Yeltsin. The Queen also attended the Bolshoi Ballet. In her traditional Christmas Day speech broadcast later that year, the Queen reflected on how times had changed, noting she “never thought it would be possible in [her] lifetime” to attend a service in Moscow’s famous cathedral.

March 19-25, 1995

South africa.

In 1994, after apartheid ended, South Africa rejoined the Commonwealth as a republic. The following year, the Queen traveled there, in a visit designed to renew ties between the two countries. The Queen met with President Nelson Mandela, pictured, and presented him with the Order of Merit.

October 12-18, 1997

The Queen visited India for the third time in 1997, her first public engagement since Princess Diana’s funeral just weeks before. The trip marked 50 years since India’s independence from Britain. Most memorably, the monarch visited the site of the Amritsar massacre, also known as the Jallianwala Bagh massacre, of April 13, 1919. She also expressed regret at a state banquet in New Delhi for the “distressing” episode in which British soldiers gunned down hundreds of unarmed civilians. The gesture was seen by some as inadequate. “The Queen is doing everything she can to make India like her. But so far it does not seem to be working,” wrote the UK’s Independent newspaper at the time.

October 4-15, 2002

The Queen visited Canada many times. In 2002, her trip to the North American country coincided with her Golden Jubilee festivities, celebrating 50 years of her reign. During the trip, the Queen attended an ice hockey game between the Vancouver Canucks and the San Jose Sharks, and dropped the ceremonial puck.

March 11-16, 2006

The Queen visited Australia 16 times as Head of State. In 2006, she traveled to Melbourne to open the Commonwealth Games. She was greeted by a welcoming party in Canberra, visited the Sydney Opera House, attended a Commonwealth Day service in St. Andrew’s Cathedral and toured Admiralty House, the Sydney residence of the Governor-General of Australia.

May 17-20, 2011

The Queen’s trip to Dublin was the first time a British monarch had set foot in the Irish Republic since its 1922 independence. At Dublin Castle the Queen delivered a well-received speech on the history of Anglo-Irish relations. In County Tipperary, she also toured the medieval Rock of Cashel, pictured, once a seat of power for Ireland’s ancient kings.

November 26-28, 2015

From 1949 to 1951, before she was Queen, Elizabeth and Prince Philip lived in Malta. In 2015, the monarch paid her last visit to the island, touring the Grand Harbour in a Maltese fishing boat and waving to members of the British Royal Navy.

United Kingdom

In the later years of her reign, the Queen cut back on foreign travel, passing on the mantle to the younger royals. In more recent years, royal tours have also been looked at with more skeptical eyes, as Britain reckons with its colonial past.

While she didn't travel abroad in the later years of her reign, the Queen continued to vacation in the UK. Most notably, the Queen’s ties with Scotland remained strong throughout her reign and her residence there, Balmoral Castle, was a favorite refuge. It was at Balmoral that the Queen died on September 8, 2022.

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How to Visit Queen Elizabeth National Park in Uganda

Sitting on 764 square miles of land, Queen Elizabeth National Park is the most visited in Uganda. It borders Uganda’s Kibale National Park and is an extension of Congo’s Virunga National Park. Some of the districts neighboring the park include Kamwenge, Rukingiri, Rubirizi and Kasese, all in the western part of Uganda.

How did the park get the name? When Queen Elizabeth II visited Uganda in the mid-50’s, she had an amazing safari in what was then known as Kazinga National Park. It was decided by the colonial government at the time to rename the park in remembrance of the Queen’s visit.

Queen Elizabeth National Park is made up of lakes, savannah plains, forests, woodlands and other breathtaking features. Her moderate weather, with a fair share of the rains, has contributed a lot to the natural beauty of the park. Apart from marveling at the beautiful features, travelers can enjoy amazing sights of different wildlife species including the famous Uganda kob, hyenas, the sitatunga, leopards, hippopotamus, elephants, crocodiles and buffalo. There are also primates like chimpanzees, black and white colobus monkeys among others. In all, Queen Elizabeth National Park has over 95 species of mammals.

Queen Elizabeth National Park is arguably also one of the best places to spot lions in East Africa. With over 200 of them, lions are favorites for many travelers who visit the park. Queen Elizabeth is the best park to spot tree climbing lions in the world.

How to access Queen Elizabeth National Park

For travelers setting off from Kampala (using private or public means), you will have to pass via Mbarara to the park. After about 420 kilometers and not more than 7 hours of driving, you will have arrived at the park. For those who cannot endure the 8 hours on the road, which is actually an amazing experience by itself, you can make a stopover at Lake Mburo National Park. Continuing from that point to the park will take about 4 hours.

Worth noting is that you are better off using a private or hired tour van to avoid any delays and other inconveniences that come with traveling by public means in Uganda. You can book your entire trip with a good tour operator in Uganda like Gorilla Tours Africa . They organize both gorilla trekking and general wildlife safaris.

You can also save yourself from the long hours on the road and hectic traffic by taking a local flight straight from Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi airstrip to Kasese, Mweya or Ishasha where you can easily access the park in no time.

After the fun-filled trip to the park and checking into a hotel to recuperate from the long journey, next on the agenda is always what brought you to the park – traversing it. International visitors to this park will never run short of activities. In fact, they might find themselves struggling to complete all of them. The key attractions are nature walks, games drive, boat cruises, chimpanzee trekking, the tree climbing lions and bird watching.

Attractions in Queen Elizabeth National Park

Game Drives

Like most national parks in the Pearl of Africa, game drives are the most popular activity in the park. Without a game drive in the park, you are depriving yourself of a chance to see some of Africa’s great mammals. Aboard a private or tour operators’ van in the morning, tourists can be seen excitedly anticipating which wild animal they will spot first. Usually, many would be expecting to chance on a lioness returning from the night’s hunt or any predator calmly resting under a shrub.   

Speaking about lions, a big number of tourists always look out for the tree climbing lions in the park. With the guidance of a tour guide, tourists will be taken to Ishasha, where these lions can be found, and the sight of them climbing trees is just exhilarating. But it is not only the Lions that you will see as you cruise through the plains, forests and acacia woods. The drive cuts through three sections of the park – the Kasenyi plains which is next to the Kazinga channel, Ishasha section, where tree climbing lions are mostly available and Katwe Crater fields. At the Katwe Crater fields is where travelers will find large craters and salt lakes that are thousands of years old.

The Kasenyi plains are home to most of the wildlife in Queen Elizabeth National Park . Here, tourists are bound to spot a plethora of wild animals like Uganda kob, buffalo, elephants and predators like lions and hyenas. With your eyes wide open through the car window, maybe borrowing extra vision from a pair of binoculars, all that will be left is to listen intently to the tour guide for information about the different species of mammals and birds. The day game drives take between 3 to 4 hours.

After game drives, birding is probably the second most sought for activity in the park. This assertion may be a subject of debate, depending on a traveler’s overall interest in the other activities in the park. Birders on a tour of Queen Elizabeth National Park will be impressed with the amazing collection of birds inhabiting Maramagambo forest, the Kazinga Channel, the savannah plains, craters and gorges like Kyambura. During certain seasons of the year, millions of migratory birds come to escape the harsh winters in Europe making the park a true birders paradise.

Some of the bird species the park houses include yellow throated cuckoo, wood sandpipers, winding and carruther’s cisticolas, white-winged warbler, white-tailed lark, white and abdim’s storks, water thick-knee, verreaux’s eagle owl, spotted redshank, ringed plower, red-chested sunbirds, pink-backed pelican, papyrus gonolek, shoebill stock, pin-tailed whydah, open-billed stork, malachite pied kingfishers and martial eagle among others.  

Chimpanzee Trekking

While some travelers think the best chimpanzee tracking experience can only be got in Kibale National Park, that is not entirely true. Queen Elizabeth National Park is home to chimpanzees in Maramagambo forest and the amazing Kyambura gorge. Only the chimpanzees in Kyambura Gorge are open to tourism. This forest gorge is where chimpanzees and others primates like baboons, red-tailed monkeys and colobus monkeys roam about without fear of being attacked by the big cats.

The 2 to 4 hours chimpanzee tracking at the Kyambura gorge costs $80 and only eight permits are issued daily. All the chimpanzees in the valley are habituated and bookings are done at the Information Centre in Mweya. The chances of seeing chimps are very high in the morning, though not compared to Kibale National Park.

The Kazinga channel

Undoubtedly one of the most outstanding features of the park, the Kazinga channel connects Lake George to Lake Edward. But that is not what is unique about the channel. Here, various animals gather to quench their thirst, take a bath and rest during the heat of the day. Animals like hippos, crocodiles, elephants, leopards and antelope can be seen on the shallow ends of these waters as they go about their business.

From a boat, travelers can get an uninterrupted view of these animals and the beautiful views surrounding the water. For ardent birders, this may turn out to be one of the best moments of your safari in Uganda. The overall concentration of birds along the channel needs to be seen to be believed. The activity is organized in shifts throughout the day with an option of using cheaper government boats or more expensive private boats owned by Mweya Safari lodge.

Cultural Tours

After all the nerve-wrecking activities in the park, a visit to the neighboring local communities during a cultural walk is inevitable. Visiting the local community helps you understand their way of life and economic activities. One of the best cultural groups to visit is the Kikorongo Equator Cultural group. Visiting this group will expose you to the unique fashion secrets that the people of that area and Uganda at large hold as treasures. They make crafts using locally curated fibers which can be bought by tourists as souvenir. The cultural facets also expand to food and how the various dishes are prepared.

A trip to Lake Katwe salt mines

While it may not come off as a typical tourist attraction, Lake Katwe is one of the few salt lakes in Africa. This information is enough to attract the attention of any inquisitive traveler. The lake is a goldmine for the communities living in the area. On a typical visit to the lake, expect to find hundreds of men and women busy mining salt from the lakes. The salt mined from the lake ends up in the dishes of almost 90% of Ugandans. It is even exported to other countries in East Africa. Salt mining has been carried out here using rudimentary methods for many generations and there is a lot that the miners can share with you during your visit.

Accommodation in Queen Elizabeth National Park

With all the amazing activities mentioned above, you need accommodation that offers comfort during those beautiful evenings in the park.  There are several lodges within and outside the park that offer high quality services to travelers. They range from simple budget tents to super luxury lodges offering world class services.

Mweya Safari Lodge

For travelers who look for high quality when it comes to their choice of accommodation, Mweya Safari Lodge may be what you are looking for. The lodge not only offers quality rooms but is also built overlooking the thrilling Kazinga channel. Regardless of whether you travel in a small or large group, the lodge has spacious rooms which are tailored to all kinds of guests. Guests can be treated to a self-contained double, twin or family cottages. The lodge also has a special boat to take residents to the Kazinga channel.

Ishasha Wilderness Camp

Remember the tree climbing lions? Well, this is the best lodge to go to if you wish to spend more time with these amazing cats. The ambience of Ishasha Wilderness Camp is something you don’t what to miss after an exciting view of the lions and other wildlife in this section. Ishasha Wilderness Camp is built next to the banks of River Ntungwe hence offering guests a chance to watch animals and birds coming for a drink. The lodge has comfortable beddings, a fully stocked bar and restaurant.

Katara Lodge

Located in the serene neighborhood of Katara village, this particular lodge is one that offers simplicity in design, but without compromising on quality. From the eye-catching grass covered cottages/units to the inside architecture, everything looks perfect. But that is not all because Katara Lodge also has a swimming pool, bar and lounge for relaxation. Good food is in plenty and you are assured of continued pampering during your stay. Outside the rooms, guests are privy to the amazing view of Lake Edward and the rest of the park.

Kyambura Gorge Lodge

Lost away from the rest of the park’s busy areas, Kyambura Gorge Lodge is another tranquil spot, perfect for an uninterrupted time to relax. The lodge is constructed banda-style and with 8 self-contained units which are all curated perfectly for a holiday in the wild. Kyambura Gorge Lodge isan excellent choice for those who are interested in Chimpanzee tracking and nature walks inside the gorge.  

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What to Do at Vancouver’s Queen Elizabeth Park

Queen Elizabeth Park in Vancouver is situated at the highest point in the city, but the majestic panoramic views of our skyline and North Shore Mountains are just the beginning.

You’ll find there are tons of amazing things to do at Queen Elizabeth Park.

Let’s visit Queen Elizabeth Park together and see what’s on offer.

Vancouver’s Queen Elizabeth Park

Aside from world-class Stanley Park there’s no greater jewel in the Vancouver parks crown.

The 130-acre municipal park on Little Mountain, just minutes from Downtown Vancouver was once an old-growth forest with its own salmon stream, then later became a basalt quarry providing material for Vancouver’s roads.

It was only in 1936 at the urging of the BC Tulip Association that the space was handed over to the Vancouver Parks Board and beautified into a lush urban oasis of flowers, trees, and gardens.

Today it’s one of the top things to do in Vancouver and an automatic on any Vancouver itinerary .

Things to Do at Queen Elizabeth Park

The bloedel floral conservatory.

In our list of things to know before visiting Vancouver we may have mentioned a drop of rain or two.

In fact, the gloomy Vancouver weather is the inspiration for the Bloedel Floral Conservatory and its triodesic dome that’s a tropical rain forest, subtropical rain forest, and desert all in one.

The vision here? A conservatory of simulated climates and their tropical plants, free flying bird species, and tropical fish ponds.

In all, a frolic through here is like a vacation to South America with its waterfalls, bridges, talking parrots, orchids and more – I like grabbing a bird checklist and trying to check the 20+ species off.

The warmth here feels amazing so it’s one of the top things to do in Vancouver in winter .

Panoramic View of Vancouver

With all due respect to Grouse Mountain , you’ll know where the best panoramic view in the city is – because there have been three life-sized bronze statues posing for photos here since 1984.

This Vancouver icon called Photo Session was created by American sculptor J. Seward Johnson, Jr.

You’ll probably have to wait your turn to pose with the smiling, lifelike characters but it’s well worth the wait.

This is the best view in the park (152 metres above sea level, the highest point in Vancouver proper) and the only place you can truly appreciate just how much our city gets dwarfed by the Coast Mountains.

Seasons in the Park Restaurant

Seasons in the Park is the only Queen Elizabeth Park restaurant, and it has been a fantastic special occasion place for locals dating back to 1989 – Bill Clinton and Boris Yeltsin even ate here in the 90’s.

From a food standpoint it compares with many of Vancouver’s best restaurants , but as far as West Coast atmosphere goes the garden/skyline/mountain combination is unbeatable.

The Pacific Northwest menu is also a great place to try local Vancouver food . Careful though, you’re paying for fine dining with a view so expect entrees to run upwards of $45.00.

Related : The Best Vancouver Food Tours

The Quarry Gardens

Just west of the Bloedel Conservatory is this meticulously landscaped garden.

Going for a walk through its weaving trails, rhododendron bushes, and beautiful annuals selected for foliage and flower is almost like a mini day trip from Vancouver , if not for the fact you’re right in the middle of the city.

The oriental horticulture influences provide great contrast to local specimens, and the stream and cascading waterfall is a nice touch.

Just below the Bloedel Conservatory you’ll find the highest point in the Quarry Gardens, from the wooden bridge (seen in photo above) you’ll get the best view.

Dancing Waters Fountain

It’s nice to break up the gardens, views, and tropical plants every now and then.

I like doing it with this 70-jet fountain show that runs on 85,000 litres of recirculating water from Vancouver’s main drinking water reservoir.

The programmed fountain creates an enthralling water dance effect, changing heights and dazzling with pumps and drops in unison.

At night a warm white light illuminates the fountain for an even more superior visual. This is a great nightcap after a dinner at Seasons in the Park – in fact, the fountains are just a 2-minute walk away.

Painters’ Corner

If you’re looking for a unique gift to take home from your Vancouver visit then this the place.

In fact, though we’ve raved about Gastown and Granville Island being the best souvenir spots in the city this is a place you’re guaranteed an original, local product.

All the artists here are vetted to be Lower Mainland residents, and are chosen for superior landscape, photography, and portrait skills.

In spring in Vancouver that’s when they start beautifying the park with their easels, near the Bloedel Conservatory.

The Arboretum

Canada’s first civic arboretum started off very local in scope, an ideal spot for local timber species blocks featuring subalpine spruce and Douglas fir.

You can also see some fantastic Coast Redwood trees here, the tallest species of tree in the world that can reach up to 350 feet.

Over 1500 trees grow here now, with some dating back to at least 1949. The highlight here though, especially in spring, is decidedly exotic: the billowy pink and white blooms of the Cherry Blossom.

Our city has over 50,000 of these trees and even hosts the Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival .

The QE Rose Garden

If you’re visiting Vancouver in summer it’s worth a visit to the city’s biggest rose garden. Over 2,500 roses are found here, planted in the shape of Queen Elizabeth’s crown.

Although I’ve never seen the aerial photography evidence I’ll have to take their word for it. That said, seeing the roses up close is spectacular.

Expect to see some hardy hybrids that were created right here in Canada – in fact, the entire garden was created to honour Canada’s centennial birthday in 1967. The Parkland variety was developed to survive our harsh winters, so you may even see them out of season.

Pitch and Putt Golf

If you’re looking to get active, challenge a friend, or just plain have a laugh hacking your way through a short golf course then Queen Elizabeth Park Pitch & Putt is a great idea.

This works both for seasoned golf pros and for golf-curious folks who don’t have the time to practice – or even learn the game at all. The average skill level is quite low, so much so that beginners can get by with a couple practice swings (and maybe a beer).

All you’ll need is one iron and a putter, both rentable at the ticket booth.

Looking for an even more picturesque course? Stanley Park has a great pitch and putt course too.

How to Get to Queen Elizabeth Park

You’ll find the main entrance of Queen Elizabeth Park at the intersection of 33rd and Cambie Street in Vancouver.

If you’re taking public transportation it’s a 10 minute walk from the King Edward Skytrain station, which is just 4-5 stops from downtown Vancouver.

Expect a trip with public transit to take about 30 minutes in total.

There are three entrances to the park:

• Ontario Street (ideal for cyclists)
• West 33rd Ave (the main entrance for cars)
• West 37th Ave (between Columbia and Mackie streets)

Parking at Queen Elizabeth Park

As of 2019 there is no more free parking at Queen Elizabeth Park. All of the parking spaces are pay only and the prices are seasonal:

• October 1st – April 30th: $2.75 an hour ($7.50 daily maximum)
• May 1st – September 30th: $3.75 an hour ($13.75 daily maximum)

That said, there is free parking outside the park along a street called Kersland Drive – it’s denoted in the map above with a green line.

How to Visit Queen Elizabeth Park

• Parking can be expensive so try and park for free along Kersland Drive
• If it’s raining book the Bloedel Conservatory and make it the focus
• Leave about 60-75 minutes to explore the park well
• Looking for romance? Bring a lock and leave it at the Love in the Rain monument
• There is a large grassy area below the pitch and putt that’s one of the city’s best off-leash spaces
• Tennis lover? Bring a racket as there are tons of free tennis courts
• In summer try to time a visit with a Vancouver Canadians baseball game (5 min away)

Queen Elizabeth Park Vancouver FAQ

How much does it cost to go to Queen Elizabeth Park?

Entrance to Queen Elizabeth Park in Vancouver is free. This includes the Quarry Gardens, the Rose Garden, Painters’ Corner, and the Arboretum.

Other QE Park attractions like the Bloedel Conservatory and the Pitch and Putt Golf Course are pay only.

 Is parking at Queen Elizabeth Park free?

No. There are two parking lots at Queen Elizabeth Park, one by the pitch and putt golf course and another near the Seasons in the Park restaurant. Rates start at $2.75 an hour.

That said, along Kersland Drive just below the park there is free parking in the residential area. It is about a 10 minute walk from the main attractions in the park.

Can you picnic at Queen Elizabeth Park?

Yes, there are some great picnic spots in Queen Elizabeth Park, especially in the grassy areas to the west of the pitch and putt golf course.

On the north side of the park just west of Duck Pond you’ll also find picnic tables and BBQ pits (May to October) as well as portable toilets.

Is Queen Elizabeth Park open 24 hours?

Yes, entrance to the park is open 24-7 (including the Rose Garden, Quarry Gardens etc.) so you’re allowed to explore any time, though some attractions like the Bloedel Conservatory operate on their own hours.

Visiting Queen Elizabeth Park?

I’d hate for you to go in unsure about anything. That’s why I’m inviting you to write me in the comments below – with any Vancouver question you could have – for a guaranteed response within 24 hours.

Also, I’m curious to hear your Queen Elizabeth Park reviews. Did QE Park live up to your expectations or is there something you’d change?

Looking forward to hearing from you 🙂

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Is Elizabeth park suitable for people with walking difficulties. Is there a shuttle to take people round or wheelchairs. Maybe it’s not a huge park?

Unfortunately there are no shuttles or wheel chairs to take you around but luckily most of the major attractions listed here are up by the top parking lot. You can walk through most of it in 20 minutes, it is not that big at all. It might be a bit of challenge to go to the lower part of the gardens, but you can still get an amazing view from up top.

Does the QE park have storage for “carry on luggage” for 2-3 hours?

To my knowledge there aren’t any – a long shot would be to try the Bloedel Conservatory. If you buy tickets I am sure they’d be happy to hold them but you might have to get sneaky by leaving to see the rest of the park in the meantime.

What You Need To Know Before Visiting Buckingham Palace (Yes, You Can Go Inside)

• Key Takeaways:
• Buckingham Palace is currently undergoing a major renovation until 2027. Some areas may be closed during the renovation, so it is important to check the official website for updates.
• Following the death of Queen Elizabeth II, Buckingham Palace and other royal palaces were closed to the public and are gradually reopening. The State Rooms of Buckingham Palace will be closed for the rest of the year.
• To visit Buckingham Palace, it is recommended to book in advance and arrive early to allow time for security checks. Certain items are prohibited inside the palace, and photography is only allowed in the garden. The Changing of the Guard ceremony is also worth watching.

One of the things that all Americans will most likely do when traveling to London is visiting Buckingham Palace. A far cry from some of the overrated tourist attractions in London , the palace is still a working royal residence and is definitely worth a visit. Keep reading to find out what you need to know before going.

For 70 years, Buckingham Palace was one of the official residences of Queen Elizabeth II - now, it is an official residence of King Charles III. The changing of the King's (formerly Queen's) Guard is one of the most iconic attractions in London and something visitors from around the world flock to see.

UPDATE: 2023/10/27 17:07 EST BY NOAH STAATS

Everything People Need To Know When Visiting Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace continues to be a global icon for tourists and English people alike. Although there is a renovation happening until 2027, there will be plenty of tours, photo-ops, and history once you enter the property. Have fun, and be safe!

Buckingham Palace Is Being Slowly Renovated

Because Buckingham Palace is so old, there have been efforts made to renovate the property. According to the Royal Family, the building's infrastructure is in urgent need of a complete overhaul to prevent long-term damage to the building and its contents. Of course, this should not result in anyone's trip being ruined, but it is worth it to check the official website now and then to ensure none of the Palace is closed.

Moreover, Buckingham Palace is currently undergoing major refurbishment works costing £369 million, expected to be completed in 2027. This will be one of the most significant renovations ever to the property, which is the country's way of preserving an iconic landmark. King Charles has been steadfast in his efforts to have this project completed as soon as possible, although such a large Palace can only be repaired so fast.

Visitors can expect certain areas to already be finished, with others closing periodically. Therefore, tours may be adjusted and altered to show more of one section over the other, so keep that in mind. Nobody ever said a renovation was easy!

• When Will Construction Be Done At Buckingham Palace?: Construction at Buckingham Palace is expected to finish in 2027.

These scenic train rides through England may offer something unique to visitors.

Notice Of Closures Following The Death Of The Queen

Following the passing of the much-loved Queen Elizabeth II in September 2022, Buckingham Palace (and the other royal palaces) were closed to the public. The official residences and palaces have been and will be reopening progressively to the public.

The Queen’s Gallery at Buckingham Palace, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and The Queen’s Gallery, Edinburgh reopened later in September. However, Buckingham Palace will not be fully reopening in 2022 as the State Rooms of Buckingham Palace will be closed for the rest of the year.

Ordinary Opening Hours For The State Rooms:

• July to August: 9.30 am to 7.30 pm
• September to October: 9.30 to 6.30 pm
• Closed: Tuesday and Wednesdays

One should check with the Royal Collection Trust for up-to-date information.

How To Get To Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace is one of the prettiest destinations in London , and that’s just when looking at it from the outside. Centrally located, it’s super easy to get to and is close to three underground stations: Victoria, Green Park, and St. James’s Park, all of which are about 10 minutes away.

Many tourists choose to get off the Tube at St. James’s Park and then stroll through the luscious gardens in the park on their way to the palace. Alternatively, you could take a cab, but this can take a lot longer than the Tube due to traffic. If you don’t mind walking, the palace is within walking distance of several hotels in Westminster. It’s also one of the stops of the Hop on Hop off bus tour.

These are the cheapest spots to visit in England (outside of London, of course).

When You Can Go Inside

Many tourists are content to observe Buckingham Palace through the gates, but it is possible to go inside. The palace offers internal tours between July and October. It’s a self-guided tour where each participant is given an audio guide and allowed to travel through the rooms included on the tour at their own pace. If you’re touring the palace, you must always follow the designated route, and you won’t be allowed to return to another room you’ve already been to.

Entry Fees Buckingham Palace Only:

• Adult: £30.00 ($33)
• Young Person: £19.50 ($22) (Aged 18 to 24)
• Child: £16.50 ($18) (Aged 5 to 17)

Entry Fees Royal Day Out:

• Adult: £55.00 ($61)
• Young Person: £36.00 ($39) (Aged 18 to 24)
• Child: £30.00 ($33) (Aged 5 to 17)

The Royal Day Out includes access to the Royal Mews, The Queen's Galley, and Buckingham Palace. The tour offers access to 19 of the 775 rooms in the palace. You’ll get a chance to walk through the State Rooms where the Queen entertains guests for state affairs, including the Throne Room and the White Drawing Room. You’ll also get to see the Ballroom and walk through the garden on the way out. You also have the option to pay more for access to the Royal Mews and the Queen’s Gallery.

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Book In Advance And Be On Time

Because the palace is only open to visitors for four months every year, places fill up very quickly. Book in advance as far ahead as possible. When purchasing your tickets online, you’ll be able to choose an entrance time, and the sooner in advance you book your ticket, the better chance you’ll have of selecting a convenient time slot.

• Tip: Plan Ahead And Book Tickets Well In Advance

One of the things to know before your Buckingham Palace tour is that you should arrive at the palace between 15 and 30 minutes early. There is always a long queue to get through security, and if you’re too late, there’s a chance you will miss out on your tour.

RELATED: 10 Etiquette Tips For Afternoon Tea In England

The Rules Of Entry

Understandably, there are a few rules of entry that all tour participants are required to follow when visiting the palace. Certain items are banned, including liquids, food, backpacks, scissors, penknives, and luggage. If you bring any of these items in, they will be confiscated. In some cases, they will be returned as you exit the palace. Those with large umbrellas are also asked to check them before embarking on the tour.

Photography is permitted in the garden but not in the staterooms. Mobile phones must also be switched off during the tour. Baby pushers are also not permitted in the staterooms.

These are some of the most historic English towns to visit in the North and South end of the country.

RELATED: How Not To Go Broke In London

Other Things To Do At Buckingham Palace

If you don’t book a tour of Buckingham Palace, it’s still worth a visit. Many visitors are content to admire the palace from the outside, but there’s also the Changing of the Guard ceremony. In June and July, this generally takes place every day, although it is subject to change.

From August to May, you can catch the ceremony on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. The official start time is 11 a.m. and there are several vantage points to watch the ceremony from, including the Buckingham Palace Gate and the Victoria Memorial.

You Can See the Boat From ‘The African Queen,’ But There’s a Catch

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The Big Picture

• Thanks to the efforts of several classic Hollywood fans, the boat used in The African Queen is fully restored and operational 73 years after the movie was made.
• The cast and crew of The African Queen filmed under difficult conditions, with many enduring extreme weather and illness, including Katharine Hepburn.
• Fans can travel to see the real life African Queen and even take a short cruise as a passenger.

Props, sets, costumes, meaningful memorabilia: pieces of movie history are often lost to time, whether by accident or natural means . This holds especially true for classic features, when productions sought box office profit but didn't expect to be remembered ten, twenty, or fifty years later. Not to mention, there was only so much of, well, anything to go around — reusing items or scrapping them entirely was normal practice. The titular component of The African Queen is a fortunate exception.

Released in 1951 and directed by Academy Award-winner John Huston , The African Queen pulled off a triple feat of critical acclaim, box office success, and earning leading man Humphrey Bogart the only Oscar win of his career. It also marked leading lady Katharine Hepburn 's fifth of 12 Oscar nominations, as well as nods for Huston as director and the screenplay adapted by Huston and James Agee . Based on a novel by C. S. Forester , Canadian steamboat captain Charlie Allnut (Bogart) and British missionary Rose Sayer (Hepburn) sail through unimaginable conditions while on the run from German soldiers during World War I. They have a nice little romance, too (the only nice part of their arduous journey). The tale of survival, love, and social resistance largely takes place on a single shipping boat. Thanks to the loving efforts of several film buffs, most recently Suzanne and Lance Holmquist , the real-life African Queen still stands over 100 years after it was built — and she still sails .

The African Queen

‘the african queen’ was grueling to make.

Previously named the S/L Livingstone , the boat that would be christened the African Queen originated in 1912 in England's Lytham shipyards. Designed to charter humans, cargo, or both, The African Queen movie director John Huston knew the vessel was perfect for his needs. Technical necessity demanded that Huston film on larger replica sets as well as the tiny boat; for certain shots, the latter didn't have enough room for the actors, the cameras, and the equipment operators. The ship still saw heavy use, however. After sinking two different times during production, the African Queen proved as resilient as her cinematic crew .

Shot largely in the Democratic Republic of the Congo , Katharine Hepburn survived encounters with deadly snakes and a case of dysentery so severe, "a bucket was placed off camera because she vomited constantly between takes." Many of the crew endured similar scenarios , not to mention malaria. Bogart and Huston were the exceptions. The former half-joked, "All we [...] drank [was] Scotch Whiskey. Whenever a fly bit me or Huston it dropped dead." In the end, Bogart was still put through his paces; the actor became "queasy and nervous" around the real leeches Huston insisted Bogart have on his body.

How Humphrey Bogart's Oscar Win Made History

Humphrey Bogart helped define a new era of Hollywood's Golden Age with his Oscar-winning turn in 'The African Queen.'

Despite these conditions, the cast and crew crafted a delightfully sweet and surprisingly earnest film . Half-romance and half-action-adventure, Bogart and Hepburn respectively shine as a cavalier yet ill-mannered captain and the world's archest Edwardian missionary (which is saying something). The legendary pair match one another's maturity, honesty, intimacy, and the caliber of snark specific to Hollywood's Golden Age. They give and take like dance partners , or, more aptly, like performers in a two-person play. The African Queen consists almost entirely of Bogart and Hepburn's interactions. They're more than capable for the task. Arguably, they could pull off the demands in their sleep. Whether they're bickering or falling in love, Charlie and Rose are as adorable as they are compelling.

What Happened to ‘The African Queen’ Boat?

In addition to its multiple Oscar nominations and Bogart's long-overdue win , the National Film Registry preserved The African Queen . The little boat that could — officially renamed to the African Queen after the movie's success — needed separate preservation. She saw different owners as time passed, as well as a return to charter work, before lawyer Jim Hendricks, Sr . recovered her from a "cow pasture" in the early 1980s. Between buying the Queen and then repairing it, Hendricks, Sr. spent approximately $130K. The boat enjoyed a slight renaissance thanks to his efforts, attending Queen Mother Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon 's 90th birthday in 1990 and "[visiting] Sydney Australia, New York and Ireland," before staying put from 2001 to 2012.

It was in 2011 that husband and wife Suzanne and Lance Holmquist took it upon themselves to rescue the vessel . Jim Hendricks, Sr.'s passing had left the African Queen derelict before the Holmquists, fellow classic film fans, saw her by chance and swooped in. Working with the Hendricks family trust, the Holmquists spent six months showing the Queen some tender, loving care. According to a CNN report, " The hull has been equipped with a new steel frame, a replacement boiler has been installed and the original black African mahogany wood decks have been repainted . In order to maintain the boat's worn and rustic charm, however, Holmquist says it has been splattered with mud to make it look exactly like it does in the movie."

Once the work was completed , Stephen Bogart , Humphrey's son with his wife Lauren Bacall , took the vessel for a spin. With many of his father's movie sets long gone, Stephen appreciated the chance to visit something tactile. When creating his 1955 Jungle Cruise ride at Disneyland, Walt Disney took inspiration from the film . With that in mind, the ride bears a striking resemblance.

Where Can You Visit the African Queen?

As of 2024, the African Queen is sitting pretty in Key Largo, Florida . It's an amusing coincidence, given that Humphrey Bogart, John Huston, and Lauren Bacall collaborated on a 1948 noir entitled Key Largo . According to the Calypso Sailing website , the vessel "is available for daily canal cruises in the beautiful Port Largo Canal area and also for private events." To the joy of movie buffs everywhere, it seems the African Queen isn't going anywhere. The boat remains as resilient as the story that made it famous.

The African Queen is available to rent on Prime Video in the U.S.

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Dairy Queen is giving out free Blizzards in September

Hold onto your spoons because a storm is brewing at Dairy Queen: The chain announced it’s offering customers buy one, get one Blizzard Treats to kick off its fall flavor lineup.

From Sept. 9 to 22, DQ rewards members can head over to their local restaurant for BOGO frozen desserts. While the classics will be available, its autumn menu launched Aug. 26, featuring seasonal flavors that will get you through the end of summer and stir up your excitement for some cooler weather.

The menu boasts new flavors like Caramel Java Chip and old favorites like Pumpkin Pie. Each of the seven treats features a host of mix-ins blended together with DQ’s fan-favorite soft serve.

Here’s the full lineup of Blizzard Treats:

• Pumpkin Pie features real pumpkin pie pieces and is garnished with whipped topping and nutmeg.
• French Silk Pie has choco chunks, pie pieces and cocoa fudge, and is finished with whipped topping.
• Caramel Java Chip boasts coffee, choco-espresso crunch pieces and caramel topping in its blend.
• OREO Fudge Brownie combines pieces of the classic sandwich cookie with brownies and cocoa fudge.
• Salted Caramel Truffle features salted caramel truffles, toffee pieces, choco chunks and cocoa fudge.
• Reese’s Pieces Cookie Dough is brimming with candy, chocolate chip cookie dough and peanut butter topping.
• Royal NY Cheesecake has cheesecake pieces and graham in its blend, and is then filled with a strawberry topping center.

“Whether stopping for a treat following a busy school day or satisfying a sweet craving after a fall activity, DQ has always been a destination for family and friends to spend quality time together,” said Maria Hokanson, executive vice president of marketing at American Dairy Queen, in a press release. “With our BOGO free offer, fans can treat themselves to not one, but two Blizzard Treats– it doesn’t get any sweeter, or tastier, than that.

The fall menu is available for a limited time only at participating locations, and the BOGO deal is only available in-app for rewards members — it may take 24 hours to appear.

Rachel Askinasi is a reporter covering the food industry including restaurants, trends, agriculture, industry news and more. She is the former food coverage lead at The Messenger, was previously Business Insider's resident food reporter and has contributed reporting to Hamptons Monthly magazine, New York City Monthly magazine, Home and Design and more. You can reach her on Instagram at  @raskinasi or on X at  @rachel_askinasi .

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Queen Camilla Breaks Royal Tradition With A Rare Appearance

She’s doing things her own way.

Queen Camilla has already broken King Charles’ recently revived royal tradition. Although the Daily Mail reported in early August that the British monarch would spend three months of summer at the Balmoral estate in Aberdeenshire, Scotland, as his late mother, Queen Elizabeth II , would during her 70-year reign, Camilla is on the move.

Amid the king and queen’s supposed summertime break, Camilla made an appearance at the Ebor Festival at York Racecourse in York, England on Aug. 24 — much to the surprise of royalists. The queen was announced as patron of the York Racecourse in May, and her visit marked the opening of the Bustardthorpe Development complex. She participated in a ribbon-cutting ceremony, toured the grounds, and then enjoyed the festivities from the royal box.

King Charles also took a break from their Scottish getaway on Aug. 20, when he met with the families affected by the recent Southport attack . During his visit to the English town , the reigning monarch held private meetings with survivors, met emergency service workers, and signed a book of condolence.

Despite the couple’s recent outings, last summer was an even greater departure from Queen Elizabeth’s royal tradition . In 2023, Charles and Camilla spent much of the summer in London, before flying to France in September for a state visit.

Camilla’s Broken Traditions

This isn’t the first time the senior royal has broken tradition in recent months. In March, Camilla parted ways with an ancient practice dating back to A.D. 600 when she became the first queen consort ( wife of the monarch ) in history to lead the Royal Maundy Service on Easter Sunday.

The historic service was held at Worcester Cathedral, the team of which shared a statement prior to Camilla’s landmark visit. “We are SO excited to announce that we will be welcoming Her Majesty The Queen to the Cathedral,” the statement read . “HM The Queen will be distributing the Royal Maundy gifts on behalf of His Majesty The King.”

In late 2023, Camilla almost broke royal protocol at the traditional State Opening of Parliament before the ceremony had even begun. In footage of the ceremony uploaded by the UK Parliament, eagle-eyed royal fans noticed that the queen went to sit down before the king, which would’ve broken with royal norms of allowing the monarch to sit first. However, before taking her seat, Camilla appeared to realize her near-mistake, and waited for Charles to sit down.

Fall Dairy Queen Blizzards are here. See what's new for 2024 and how to get a free treat

Even with high temperatures, it's fall Blizzard season at DQ.

Dairy Queen has launched the 2024 Fall Blizzard menu at its stores.

Of course, there's a pumpkin-flavored variety. The Pumpkin Pie Blizzard is returning to the menu, as well as the French Silk Pie Blizzard.

Among the four new flavors is the Caramel Java Chip Blizzard, made with coffee, choco-espresso crunch pieces and caramel topping.

What is a DQ Blizzard?

Dairy Queen introduced the Blizzard, its soft serve blended with mix-in ingredients such as cookie or candy pieces, in 1985.

DQ Curly the Clown: The mascot has greeted people at this Dairy Queen since 1959, but not for much longer

Here’s the fall 2024 DQ Blizzard lineup:

• Pumpkin Pie Blizzard Treat: Real pumpkin pie pieces, whipped topping and nutmeg
• French Silk Pie Blizzard Treat: Choco chunks, pie pieces, cocoa fudge and whipped topping
• Caramel Java Chip Blizzard Treat: Coffee, choco-espresso crunch pieces and caramel topping
• Oreo Fudge Brownie Blizzard Treat: Oreo cookie pieces, brownies and cocoa fudge
• Salted Caramel Truffle Blizzard Treat: Salted caramel truffles, toffee pieces, choco chunks and cocoa fudge
• Reese’s Pieces Cookie Dough Blizzard Treat: Reese’s Pieces candy, chocolate chip cookie dough and peanut butter topping
• Royal NY Cheesecake Blizzard Treat: Cheesecake pieces, graham and a strawberry topping center.

How to get a free DQ Blizzard

Also, there will be a buy-one, get-one Blizzard offer for DQ Rewards members through the DQ mobile app Sept. 9-22.

Find the app at dairyqueen.com .

International Dairy Queen Inc., based in Bloomington, Minnesota, has more than 7,000 restaurants in the United States, Canada and more than 20 other countries. 

Contact IndyStar reporter Cheryl V. Jackson at [email protected] or 317-444-6264. Follow her on X:  @cherylvjackson .

New Times, New Thinking.

The Queen’s greatest act

Craig Brown’s A Voyage Around the Queen shows how Elizabeth II reflected her subjects back at themselves.

By Margaret MacMillan

Years ago, in Kathmandu, I saw a living goddess. Still a child, she sat in a window while crowds gawked at her. Who knew what she was thinking or whether she liked or detested the role that she had been assigned? Queen Elizabeth II was a great distance away not just geographically but also in circumstances – but she presents the same puzzle. True, the living goddess spent her days in a small wooden house on a noisy, dusty street; the Queen in a series of palaces and castles surrounded by great gardens and parklands, with one of the greatest art collections in the world and piles of precious jewels to rival Aladdin’s cave.

Yet both women trod paths that had been chosen for them by fate, whether through karma or descent. Both were the objects of adulation, sometimes hostility, as their observers projected on to them their own biases. Goddess and queen, what were they really like? With the Queen, at least, there were the occasional remarks, a laugh here or a frown there, which give brief hints of a private life away from the unrelenting gaze of the public.

Craig Brown’s wonderfully readable new book is, as the title says, a voyage around the phenomenon of the Queen, rather than a biography. He has done his homework, dutifully reading even the most fawning accounts – an experience like eating candyfloss, he says: “You emerge pink and queasy, but also undernourished.” In fact, he has retrieved a wealth of marvellous details, on the royal corgis, for example, whom he compares to the Corleone clan, in their viciousness and unpredictability.

His more serious object, which he achieves triumphantly, is to explore the impact of the Queen on so many millions of people. And not just in their waking moments but their subconscious too. “Queen of the British psyche,” was Brian Masters’ term. One estimate from the Seventies is that a third of the British dream about the royal family. Her sister, Princess Margaret (the subject of Brown’s 2017 book Ma’am Darling ), dreamed frequently that she had made the Queen very angry. A housewife in Leeds dreams of meeting the Queen on a bus and taking her home for a cup of tea. A famous writer, who chooses to remain anonymous, confesses that he sees the Queen in his dreams as the God from whom no secrets are hidden.

For more than 70 years she did her duty, opening parliaments, holding receptions, receiving dignitaries or launching ships. She visited 117 different countries. She gave out over 400,000 honours and sent 45,000 Christmas cards. Scores of dictators and democratic leaders came and went while she was on the throne. She knew 14 American presidents and 15 British prime ministers. Stalin died in 1953, the year she was coronated, and she lived through the collapse of his Soviet Union in 1991. Her coronation was the first to be televised; millions of people bought tiny black and white televisions for the occasion. Her funeral, watched by half the world’s population according to one estimate, was in colour while drones flew over London to get footage of the gigantic crowds.

The Saturday Read

Morning call.

Those moments, as well as her wedding and her four jubilees, were markers of the passage of time but also the occasion for national reflection. (They were also opportunities for crass commercialism. At her Silver Jubilee some 30,000 separate items were put up for sale and after her death in 2022 a tea bag she had once used sold for $12,000 on eBay.) When the Queen died it was as though a stable and valued monument, like the tree in the Sycamore Gap or Stonehenge, had fallen. She was, said JK Rowling, “a thread winding through all our lives”. A five-mile-long queue stretched through London as people waited patiently to visit her coffin as it lay in state. Scores of sporting events were cancelled and at one primary school Guinea Pig Awareness Week was postponed.

In her lifetime she was not above criticism. The initial reserved reaction of the royal family to the death of Princess Diana was widely attacked in the press and among the public. The then prime minister Tony Blair described the public mood as “menacing”. Throughout her life the Queen was frequently mocked for her conversational gambits – “Have you come far?” – and for so often murmuring “how interesting”. “Her Majesty’s a pretty nice girl,” sang the Beatles when they were young and cheeky, “but she doesn’t have a lot to say.” She had learned early on that simple questions and commonplaces were safest. In longer conversations, as the emperor of Japan once complained, she often talked about dogs and horses. (She found that he talked mainly about his tropical fish.) She was always being watched, often accused of being bored or grumpy. “I’ve the kind of face that if I’m not smiling, I look cross,” she once said.

Wherever she went she walked on new carpets, smelled fresh paint or saw newly planted flower beds. Once in Totnes, guests were advised to stand in a semi-circle to hide the entrance to the men’s lavatory from the royal gaze. At her coronation the pre-eminent royal commentator, Richard Dimbleby, “the Gold Microphone-in-Waiting”, pioneered a special back-to-front sentence for describing her. “The moment of the Queen’s crowning is come,” he intoned from his box behind the high altar in Westminster Abbey.

One of the many delights of Brown’s book is his exploration of the extraordinary effect her mere presence had on people: she was, as he puts it, like a mirror reflecting her observers back on themselves. “To watch a line of some of the most powerful people in the world waiting to be introduced to the Queen,” said the poet Ben Okri, “was to watch something unreal, the visible form of the magnetic power of the moon on the tides.” (When the prominent left-wing playwrights John Osborne, Harold Pinter and David Hare met at a Buckingham Palace reception all said they were there because of their wives.) As they first saw the Queen people often felt slightly woozy, as if a well-known portrait had come alive. Kingsley Amis was so afraid of farting – or worse – in the royal presence that he gave up eating beans for weeks and gobbled down anti-diarrhoea tablets. People found themselves behaving strangely, roaring with fake laughter, their gestures too broad.

If the Queen asked them a question, even the most self-confident found themselves babbling inanely or, for some reason, telling lies. When a young Brown met her he found himself giving her an extensive lecture on English humour. Phil Collins, the rock star, found himself whistling a tune but when the Queen asked him what it was he couldn’t answer. “What came over me?” he asked the radio presenter Terry Wogan. It was, replied Wogan, the “Royal Effect” where “you say the first thing that comes into your head, and you carry the memory of your foolishness with you to the grave”.

In her own fashion the Queen played a role as successful monarchs have done through the ages. She too was surrounded by mystery and rituals, even recently invented ones such as parts of the coronation ceremony. For most of her reign the Queen was supported, with the occasional firework, by Prince Philip, who had created his own public persona as a bluff English naval officer, although his complicated family background and his intellectual curiosity were rather different. She had imagined being an actress once, she said to the then French president François Hollande. Perhaps, replied Hollande, she had become one. Yes, she admitted, “but always the same role.”

Yet when there was talk at the start of the new century of the Queen stepping aside in favour of Prince Charles, a courtier told Max Hastings that he and his fellow journalists just didn’t get it. “She likes being Queen.” Mostly. Perceptively, Brown wonders if part of her love for her corgis was that they did exactly what they wanted. Her passion for horse-racing may have been because it too was unpredictable. For someone who was always expected to be so cautious it meant, he says, “she could be spontaneous, excitable and competitive”. And competitive she was, ruthlessly discarding horses and trainers if they weren’t winning.

Occasionally the woman behind the role peeps out. In the Christmas speech of 1992, the year Princess Anne got divorced, Charles and Diana separated and much of Windsor Castle burned, the Queen talked about how, like other families, hers has had some difficulties. More recently, when the Sussexes lobbed accusations of royal racism from California, the phrase “recollections may vary” was apparently the Queen’s own. She was obliged to entertain some appalling people, from Idi Amin to the Ceaușescus but made it clear she did not like them. President Donald Trump she found “very rude” and wondered why on Earth his wife stayed married to him. (Trump, inevitably, thought he had been a great success.) There is no danger here of candyfloss overload.

At once sympathetic but clear-eyed, kind but sharp, Brown has given us a serious reflection on the nature of power and why institutions such as the monarchy, in the right hands, can provide a society with stability and a sense of continuity, especially in turbulent times. When faced with the alternatives on offer at the moment, even committed republicans may find themselves reconsidering their position.

Margaret MacMillan is emeritus professor of international history at Oxford University

A Voyage Around the Queen Craig Brown 4th Estate, 672pp, £25

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This article appears in the 21 Aug 2024 issue of the New Statesman, The Christian Comeback

When will Kamala Harris speak at the DNC? See Thursday's schedule and how to watch live

The fourth and final day of the 2024 Democratic National Convention begins Thursday in Chicago, following a Wednesday that featured speeches from former President Bill Clinton, Speaker Nancy Pelosi, and Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz , among others.

Tonight, several Democratic Party leaders are scheduled to speak, culminating with Vice President Kamala Harris accepting the party's presidential nomination.

The convention follows a challenging period for Democrats, beginning with President Biden's underwhelming debate performance against former President Donald Trump on June 27. Biden has since opted not to seek reelection and endorsed Harris as the nominee.

Thursday's schedule for the 2024 DNC

(Note: All times listed are in Central Time)

• 7 a.m.-9:30 a.m.: Delegation breakfasts
• 9 a.m.-10 a.m.: Morning press briefing
• 9:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m.: Women’s Caucus meeting
• 12 p.m.-1:30 p.m.: Disability Caucus meeting
• 12 p.m.-1:30 p.m.: Youth Council meeting
• 12 p.m.-1:30 p.m.: Rural Council meeting
• 1:45 p.m.-3:15 p.m.: Veterans & Military Families Council meeting
• 1:45 p.m.-3:15 p.m.: Poverty Council meeting
• 1:45 p.m.-3:15 p.m.: Interfaith Council meeting
• 6 p.m.-10 p.m.: Main programming

When will Kamala Harris speak at 2024 DNC?

Kamala Harris is expected to accept the Democratic Party's presidential nomination on Thursday night, the final night of the convention, with her speech set to take place during the convention's main programming session from 5:30-10 p.m. CT.

How to Watch and Stream the 2024 DNC

The convention will air live on its website from the United Center in Chicago from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. ET (6 p.m. to 10 p.m. CT) on Thursday. USA TODAY will provide livestream coverage on YouTube .

Nightly Themes of the DNC

The convention’s overall theme is "For the People, For Our Future." Here are the themes for each night:

• Monday: "For the People"
• Tuesday: "A Bold Vision for America's Future"
• Wednesday: "A Fight for Our Freedoms"
• Thursday: "For Our Future"

What song did NY choose for the DNC roll call? Here's the complete list of songs by state

• Alabama:  Song: "Sweet Home Alabama" | Artist: Lynyrd Skynyrd
• Alaska:  Song: "Feel It Still" | Artist: Portugal. The Man
• American Samoa:  Song: "Edge of Glory" | Artist: Lady Gaga
• Arizona:  Song: "Edge of Seventeen" | Artist: Stevie Nicks
• Arkansas:  Song: "Don’t Stop" | Artist: Fleetwood Mac
• California:  Song: "The Next Episode" | Artist: Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Nate Dogg; Song: "California Love" | Artist: Tupac Shakur; Song: "Alright" | Artist: Kendrick Lamar; Song: "Not Like Us" | Artist: Kendrick Lamar
• Colorado:  Song: "September" | Artist: Earth, Wind & Fire
• Connecticut:  Song: "Signed, Sealed, Delivered (I'm Yours)" | Artist: Stevie Wonder
• Delaware:  Song: "Higher Love" | Artist: Kygo & Whitney Houston
• Washington, D.C.:  Song: "Let Me Clear My Throat" | Artist: DJ Kool
• Florida:  Song: "I Won't Back Down" | Artist: Tom Petty
• Georgia:  Song: "Turn Down For What?" | Artist: Lil Jon
• Guam:  Song: "Espresso" | Artist: Sabrina Carpenter
• Hawai’i:  Song: "24K Magic" | Artist: Bruno Mars
• Idaho:  Song: "Private Idaho" | Artist: The B-52's
• Illinois:  Song: "Fortunate" | Artist: Common
• Indiana:  Song: "Don't Stop 'til You Get Enough" | Artist: Michael Jackson
• Iowa:  Song: "Celebration" | Artist: Kool & The Gang
• Kansas:  Song: "Carry On Wayward Son" | Artist: Kansas
• Kentucky:  Song: "First Class" | Artist: Jack Harlow
• Louisiana:  Song: "All I Do Is Win" | Artist: DJ Khaled
• Maine:  Song: "Shut Up and Dance" | Artist: WALK THE MOON
• Maryland:  Song: "Respect" | Artist: Aretha Franklin
• Massachusetts:  Song: "I'm Shipping Up to Boston" | Artist: Dropkick Murphys
• Michigan:  Song: "Lose Yourself" | Artist: Eminem
• Minnesota:  Song: "1999" | Artist: Prince
• Mississippi:  Song: "Twistin' the Night Away" | Artist: Sam Cooke
• Missouri:  Song: "Good Luck, Babe!" | Artist: Chappell Roan
• Montana:  Song: "American Woman" | Artist: Lenny Kravitz
• Nebraska:  Song: "Firework" | Artist: Katy Perry
• Nevada:  Song: "Mr. Brightside" | Artist: The Killers
• New Hampshire:  Song: "Don’t Stop Believin'" | Artist: Journey
• New Jersey:  Song: "Born in the USA" | Artist: Bruce Springsteen
• New Mexico:  Song: "Confident" | Artist: Demi Lovato
• New York:  Song: "Empire State of Mind" | Artist: Jay-Z featuring Alicia Keys
• North Carolina:  Song: "Raise Up" | Artist: Petey Pablo
• North Dakota:  Song: "Girl on Fire" | Artist: Alicia Keys
• Northern Mariana Islands:  Song: "Ain’t No Mountain High Enough" | Artist: Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell
• Ohio:  Song: "Green Light" | Artist: John Legend
• Oklahoma:  Song: "Ain't Goin' Down ('til the Sun Comes Up)" | Artist: Garth Brooks
• Oregon:  Song: "Float On" | Artist: Modest Mouse
• Pennsylvania:  Song: "Black and Yellow" | Artist: Wiz Khalifa
• Puerto Rico:  Song: "Despacito" | Artist: Luis Fonsi featuring Daddy Yankee
• Rhode Island:  Song: "Shake It Off" | Artist: Taylor Swift
• South Carolina:  Song: "Get Up (I Feel Like Being a Sex Machine)" | Artist: James Brown
• South Dakota:  Song: "That's What I Like About You" | Artist: The Romantics
• Tennessee:  Song: "9 to 5" | Artist: Dolly Parton
• Texas:  Song: "Texas Hold 'Em" | Artist: Beyoncé
• Utah:  Song: "Everybody Talks" | Artist: Neon Trees
• Vermont:  Song: "Stick Season" | Artist: Noah Kahan
• Virginia:  Song: "The Way I Are" | Artist: Timbaland (featuring Hilson & D. O. E)
• Washington:  Song: "Can’t Hold Us" | Artist: Macklemore and Ryan Lewis
• West Virginia:  Song: "Take Me Home, Country Roads" | Artist: John Denver
• Wisconsin:  Song: "Jump Around" | Artist: House of Pain
• Wyoming:  Song: "I Gotta Feeling" | Artist: Black Eyed Peas

Contributing: USA Today Network

Dairy Queen's 2024 Fall Blizzard Menu is now available: See the full fall menu

With summer nearing the end , Dairy Queen is welcoming the new season with its new Fall Blizzard Menu , which features plenty of pumpkin and the return of the chain's fan favorites.

Dairy Queen's Fall Blizzard Menu rolled out on Monday, marking the return of the Pumpkin Pie Blizzard Treat, a beloved seasonal fall fan favorite along with a variety of other flavors and treats.

"Although temperatures may not call for flannels just yet, the new Fall Blizzard Menu gives fans the chance to enjoy seasonal flavors with the Pumpkin Pie Blizzard Treat and the return of the highly-requested French Silk Pie Blizzard Treat – straight out of the DQ Freezer," says DQ about their new menu.

Pumpkin spice: Fall flavor permeates everything from pies to puppy treats

What is on Dairy Queen's Fall Blizzard menu?

The newest item on DQ's Fall menu is the Caramel Java Chip Blizzard Treat which includes coffee, choco-espresso crunch pieces, and caramel blended with DQ's world-famous soft serve.

Meanwhile, fan-favorite items returning this fall to Dairy Queen include:

• Pumpkin Pie Blizzard Treat: Pieces of real pumpkin pie blended with DQ soft serve and garnished with whipped topping and nutmeg.
• French Silk Pie Blizzard Treat: Choco chunks, pie pieces, and cocoa fudge blended with DQ soft serve and garnished with whipped topping.
• Oreo Fudge Brownie Blizzard Treat: Oreo cookie pieces, brownies, and cocoa fudge blended with DQ soft serve.
• Salted Caramel Truffle Blizzard Treat: Salted caramel truffles, toffee pieces, chocolate chunks, and cocoa fudge blended with soft serve.
• Reese's Pieces Cookie Dough Blizzard Treat: Reese's Pieces, cookie dough, and peanut butter topping blended with soft serve.
• Royal NY Cheesecake Blizzard Treat: Cheesecake pieces and graham blended with DQ soft serve filled with a strawberry topping center.

Get BOGO deal on Blizzard Treat

Alongside the release of the fall menu, the fast food chain is also offering a Buy One, Get One (BOGO) free Blizzard Treat deal. This will be available from Sept. 9 to Sept. 22 only through the DQ Mobile App for Rewards members at participating restaurants, according to a news release .

Introduced in 1985, the Dairy Queen Blizzard features soft serve blended with mix-in ingredients such as cookie or candy pieces.

Saman Shafiq is a trending news reporter for USA TODAY. Reach her at [email protected] and follow her on X and Instagram @saman_shafiq7.

Pumpkin pie is back at Dairy Queen. What's on the new Fall Blizzard Menu?

It might be the end of summer, but ice cream season is year-round at Dairy Queen with the new Fall Blizzard Menu.

The menu that dropped Monday brought back fall fan-favorites and new Blizzard flavors for people to try. The 2024 menu confirmed the return of the Pumpkin Pie Blizzard.

"Although temperatures may not call for flannels just yet, the new Fall Blizzard Menu gives fans the chance to enjoy seasonal flavors with the Pumpkin Pie Blizzard Treat and the return of the highly-requested French Silk Pie Blizzard Treat – straight out of the DQ Freezer," says DQ about their new menu.

What is on Dairy Queen's Fall Blizzard Menu?

The newest item on DQ's fall menu is the Caramel Java Chip Blizzard Treat, which includes coffee, choco-espresso crunch pieces and caramel blended with DQ's world-famous soft serve.

Need a break? Play the USA TODAY Daily Crossword Puzzle.

Meanwhile, fan-favorite items returning this fall to Dairy Queen include:

• Pumpkin Pie Blizzard Treat:  Pieces of real pumpkin pie blended with DQ soft serve and garnished with whipped topping and nutmeg.
• French Silk Pie Blizzard Treat:  Choco chunks, pie pieces and cocoa fudge blended with DQ soft serve and garnished with whipped topping.
• Oreo Fudge Brownie Blizzard Treat:  Oreo cookie pieces, brownies and cocoa fudge blended with DQ soft serve.
• Salted Caramel Truffle Blizzard Treat:  Salted caramel truffles, toffee pieces, chocolate chunks and cocoa fudge blended with soft serve.
• Reese's Pieces Cookie Dough Blizzard Treat:  Reese's Pieces, cookie dough and peanut butter topping blended with soft serve.
• Royal NY Cheesecake Blizzard Treat:  Cheesecake pieces and graham blended with DQ soft serve filled with a strawberry topping center.

Where to find Dairy Queen in the Des Moines metro

There are 10 Dairy Queen locations across the Des Moines metro. Here are the cities in the Des Moines metro you can find a Dairy Queen:

• West Des Moines

Kate Kealey is a general assignment reporter for the Register. Reach her at  [email protected]  or follow her on Twitter at @ Kkealey17 .