Queen Elizabeth dies: Liberty, Selfridges, Legoland - what shops and attractions are closed in London?

After seven decades as this country’s longest-reigning monarch, Queen Elizabeth II died peacefully at Balmoral, her home in Scotland, yesterday.

Buckingham Palace released a statement on Thursday (September 8) stating: “The Queen died peacefully at Balmoral this afternoon.

“The King and The Queen Consort will remain at Balmoral this evening and will return to London tomorrow.”

Now, as a mark of respect for her Majesty’s passing, events up and down the country have been cancelled.

It comes as a wave of tradition sweeps the nation ahead of King Charles III’s coronation.

Here are the major shops and attractions in London closed following the death of the Queen.

Tower of London

The Tower of London, as one of the UK’s historic royal palaces, was closed today.

It came as King Charles III returned to the capital and greeted crowds at Buckingham Palace.

A spokesperson said: “Today the Tower of London will be closed.

“Our flag is being flown at half-mast to mark the passing of Her Majesty The Queen.”

The Tower also took part in a 96-round gun salute to mark the Queen’s death at 1pm on Friday, September 9.

One round was fired for each year of the Queen’s life.

Selfridges

Department store Selfridges closed its doors in London, Manchester and Birmingham.

A spokesperson said: "It is with deep sorrow that we acknowledge the passing of her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II.

"Queen Elizabeth has been a reassuring constant throughout our lives, ascending to the throne on February 6, 1952, making her the longest-reigning monarch in British history.”

They added: "Over the past 70 years, her Majesty has been dedicated to the service of our country and the Commonwealth, demonstrating an enormous sense of duty and commitment."

Staff are understood to be being paid as normal.

Palace of Westminster

The Palace of Westminster - which houses the UK Parliament, made up of the Houses of Commons and Lords - has been closed to the public.

As part of Operation London Bridge, the plans for public events following the death of Quen, her Majesty is expected to lay in state in Westminster Hall.

This means her coffin will be on display, guarded by soldiers, and the public will be welcomed to pay their respects.

Monarchs including King George V, King George VI and Queen Mary have lain in state at Westminster Hall, as well as public figures Sir Winston Churchill and the Queen Mother.

A spokesperson said: “The Palace of Westminster is closed to the public and public activities have been suspended.

“Her late Majesty will lie in state in Westminster Hall and the public will be able to pay their respects.”

Kew Gardens

West London botanical gardens Kew Gardens remained closed today in light of the Queen’s death.

A spokesperson said: “We are closed tomorrow, September 9, to respectfully mark the passing of Her Majesty The Queen.

“We will open again on 10 September.”

They added: “If you have a pre-booked ticket for this date or are participating in a pre-planned activity, we’ll be in touch via email with more information.”

Liberty

Iconic London shopping destination Liberty London has also closed its doors today to mark the Queen’s passing.

A spokesperson said: “Our heartfelt sympathy and thoughts are with the royal family at this sad time.

“As a mark of respect, Liberty Store will be closed until Saturday 10th September at 10 am while we join the country in mourning.”

The Liberty store is a heritage listed site and the brand holds a royal warrant to supply goods to the royal family.

Legoland Windsor

While theme park Legoland Windsor, based near the Queen’s home of Windsor Castle, also said it was closing on Friday as a mark of respect.

A spokesperson said: “We are extremely saddened to hear of the passing of HM Queen Elizabeth II.

“Our thoughts are with all the Royal Family at this deeply sad time.

“Out of respect the Resort will be closed tomorrow.

“If you’re due to visit you will receive an email about your booking.”

The Queen and Duke of Edinburgh visited Legoland to celebrate the Duke’s 82nd birthday where they viewed a Lego statue of Prince Philip.