The Queen's Diamond Jubilee River pageant on the Thames took place this afternoon, and I went to the river to watch it. The weather was not good today, but the rain halted for the later morning and early afternoon. I got to London in the morning and waited on the bank opposite of Big Ben. I had a good view of the river, and there were not many people about. The crowds, however, did arrive later. Of course, this meant waiting for many hours so I did not lose my space. (I was alone, so I made sure not to eat or drink anything for fear of losing my spot!)
Many people were dressed up and carrying flags or masks of the royal family, and everyone was celebrating and enjoying the event, despite the poor weather.
Finally, the boats reached Big Ben and Westminster Bridge by about 3:30, and the first were row boats. The royal barge, Chartwell, was in the middle of the parade. This contained the royal family, who were waving to the crowd. Fire rescue boats, military boats, canal boats, barges, steam boats, and small yachts were also in the parade.
I took many photographs. I hope you enjoy them. Were you watching the pageant as well?
A boy gets his face painted.
Crowds on Westminster Bridge wave flags.
Hats, headpieces, and faces contain the British flag 'Union Jack'.
A couple sit by the Thames and wait for the pageant to begin.
A young patriotic boy waits for the pageant.
Flags line Westminster Bridge; this one stands against the Houses of Parliament.
Crowds wait on Westminster Bridge.
Rowboats in the Diamond Jubilee River Pageant
Diamond Jubilee River Pageant
Lords - Diamond Jubilee River Pageant
Chartwell, the royal barge
The queen waves. Camilla and Charles, Harry, and Kate and Will are also present.
Harry, Kate, and William. (Camilla is wearing peach, and Charles is in the background.)
The royal family on HMS Chartwell
I like Kate's red dress.
The royal family wave from HMS Chartwell
Another boat sails by with a message on it: God save the queen.
Steamboats sail underneath Westminster Bridge.
Big Ben is a lovely backdrop to watch the Diamond Jubilee River Pageant from.
Steamboats
A fire boat lets water out of the hoses.
The rain descends, and people put up their umbrellas.
Two girls stand on top of bins.
The canal boats drift by South Bank and a crowd of people.
Lovley photos Jen thanks for sharing would love to tag a couple for my fb Album keep up the variety Jen x
Great pictures
Doesn't get much more British than that