The Queen’s Access to the City of London: Tradition and Symbolism

Introduction

The City of London is an area of great historical significance within the United Kingdom. It holds a unique and special place within the realm, particularly with regards to the monarchy. This article explores the Queen's access to the City of London and the various traditions and symbolisms surrounding her visits.

Legal and Historical Context

The Queen is free to visit the City of London as part of her duties and constitutional role. In fact, the Lord Mayor of London traditionally invites the reigning monarch to the City as part of the Lord Mayor's Show, an annual event. The Queen’s presence in the City is often ceremonial, reflecting the historical relationship between the monarchy and the City of London, and her constitutional duties.

While there are no legal restrictions on the Queen's access to the City of London, it is important to understand the significance of this area and the traditions that govern her visits. For example, when the Queen engages in official business within the City, she technically seeks permission from the Lord Mayor, although this permission has never been denied in practice.

Personal Encounters

Throughout her reign, the Queen has had several personal encounters with the City of London, which highlight the unique relationship she shares with this area. Two notable incidents are discussed here:

First Encounter: A Traffic Jam

One memorable encounter took place when the author, a motorcycle dispatch rider, found himself caught in a heavy traffic jam near St. Paul's Cathedral. The Queen’s car was also stuck in the same traffic jam, and even the police outriders were unable to move her. Upon closer inspection, it was revealed that the woman accompanying the Queen was the Queen of the Netherlands. When their eyes met, the Queen of the Netherlands had an intense look on her face, while the author was quick to look away.

Second Encounter: A Sunday Evening at the Guildhall

A stark contrast to the first encounter occurred during a Sunday evening in the financial district. The author noticed the Queen’s car outside the Guildhall, where a function was taking place. Upon seeing her, the car slowed down and the Queen made eye contact with the author, who was passing by. This unexpected encounter resulted in the Queen smiling at him.

Traditions and Symbolism

The City of London is a significant area within the United Kingdom, and the Queen’s visits to this area hold both historical and ceremonial significance. As part of her realm, the City is an important part of her duties. While there are no formal legal requirements for entry, traditional practices emphasize her role and status.

For example, the Lord Mayor of London typically meets the Queen at the city boundary when she is on official business. However, during important events like visits to St. Paul's Cathedral, the Lord Mayor often greets the Queen at the foot of the steps.

The City’s traditions also include a ceremony where the Queen surrenders the sword of the City to symbolize her sovereignty over the City. Immediately afterwards, the Lord Mayor returns the sword to the Queen as a symbol of his office within the City.

Conclusion

In summary, the Queen can definitely visit the City of London, whether for official business, ceremonial functions, or simply on a personal visit. These visits carry both historical and ceremonial significance, reflecting the long and close relationship between the monarchy and the City of London.

These traditions and symbolisms ensure that the City of London retains its unique place within the United Kingdom and symbolizes the monarch's role as the sovereign of the realm.