Queen Elizabeth II’s eight grandchildren hold silent vigil beside her coffin in Westminster Hall

As U.S. President Joe Biden and other world leaders flew into London ahead of the queen’s state funeral on September 19, a tide of people wanting to say goodbye streamed into Parliament’s Westminster Hall

All eight of Queen Elizabeth II’s grandchildren stood in silent vigil beside her coffin on September 17, capping another huge day in which thousands came to pay their respects. Mourners huddled in a line that snaked across London, enduring the city’s coldest night in months and waits that stretched up to 16 hours.

Authorities warned that more chilly weather was expected on September 17 night. “Tonight’s forecast is cold. Warm clothing is recommended,” the ministry in charge of the line tweeted.

As U.S. President Joe Biden and other world leaders and dignitaries flew into London ahead of the queen’s state funeral on September 19, a tide of people wanting to say goodbye streamed into Parliament’s Westminster Hall. That’s where the queen’s coffin is lying in state, draped in her Royal Standard and capped with a diamond-studded crown.

Also refer: Queen Elizabeth II’s funeral to be held on September 19

The numbers of mourners have grown steadily since the public was first admitted on September 14, with a queue that snakes around Southwark Park and stretches for at least 5 miles (8 kilometers).

Honoring their patience, King Charles III and his eldest son Prince William made an unannounced visit on September 17 to greet people waiting to file past Elizabeth’s coffin, shaking hands and thanking mourners in the queue near Lambeth Bridge.

Later, all the queen’s grandchildren stood by her coffin. William and Prince Harry, Charles’ sons, were joined by Princess Anne’s children, Zara Tindall and Peter Philips; Prince Andrew’s daughters, Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie; and the two children of Prince Edward – Lady Louise Windsor and James, Viscount Severn.