Sixty years ago the UK and the rest of the world switched on their black and white televisions to see the news that Princess Elizabeth was to become Queen Elizabeth II. To celebrate this occasion, the UK has an extended Bank Holiday weekend with the late May Bank Holiday being moved to Monday 4 June and an additional Jubilee Bank Holiday taking place on Tuesday 5 June. Should you plan to travel to London during this time, expect delays, and – if you’re staying over – book accommodation early.
The 60-year Diamond Jubilee anniversary will be celebrated up and down the country as hundreds of bunting-lined street parties serve sausage rolls and ham sandwiches, Victoria sponges and (of course) copious cups of tea! Major events are also scheduled in London, including the Thames Diamond Jubilee Pageant on Sunday 3 June, where the Queen will board the Royal Barge and lead nearly 1,000 boats down the River Thames. As many will visit London over this long weekend, travel in the city may be challenging, with heavy congestion on public transport expected.
The Diamond Jubilee weekend is not the only major event to take place in London this summer; the city will also host the annual Wimbledon Tennis Championships between 25 June and 8 July and the 2012 Olympic Games between 27 July and 12 August. Despite the logistical challenges, London is certainly the place to be this summer for assignees and locals alike.
Read all of our latest communications on international assignments, including the latest Mobility Insights on the 2012 London Olympic series.
Email this contributor at louise.rachael@cartus.com.
