It's 11 days since the Queen died and with her funeral due to begin in just a few hours you can feel the atmosphere changing on a cold cloudy autumn morning in London.
At 9:44pm (NZ time) the coffin will move from its lying in state at Westminster Hall to Westminster Abbey for the funeral service.
Nine-year-old Prince George and his sister, seven-year-old Princess Charlotte, have been brought in to walk behind their great-grandmother's coffin before the Queen's state funeral tonight.
They will walk behind their parents, Prince William and Catherine, and in front of Prince Harry and Meghan.
The move is seen as the Royal Family sending a powerful signal about its future continuity.
King Charles arrived at Buckingham Palace today, where there have been cheers for the King and tears for the Queen.
Everyone knew the queue to see her lying in state would have to end on the final day of public mourning but that didn't soften the blow.
Disappointment was inescapable for those who'd left their run to the last minute, denied the chance to say goodbye in person.
Hundreds of thousands of people did make it to Westminster Hall, determined to stand before their Queen to bow or nod or blow a kiss.
"It's just something we felt we've got to do, wouldn't be right not to do it," one person said.
US President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill were among them joined by Jane Hartley, America's Ambassador to the UK. Biden signed a cross and placed his hand on his heart, remembering a leader of great integrity.
"She was the same in person as her image, decent, honourable and all about service and our hearts go out to the royal family," he said.
"To all the people of England, all the people in the UK - our hearts go out to you. You were fortunate to have had her for 70 years, we all were. The world is better for her."
For the first time since the Queen's death, the Queen Consort spoke.
"She's got those wonderful blue eyes that when she smiles they light up her whole face. I'll always remember that smile. That smile is unforgettable," Camilla said.
Full of love and respect for her mother-in-law.
"It must have been so difficult for her being a solitary woman, there weren't women Prime Ministers or women Presidents, she was the only one and she carved her own role."
The Queen's second eldest son, Prince Andrew, also paid tribute saying: "Mummy, your love for a son, your compassion, your care, your confidence I will treasure forever. I have found your knowledge and wisdom infinite, with no boundary or containment. I will miss your insights, advice and humour."
Prince Andrew has played a significant role in official ceremonies since the Queen's death despite being stripped of royal duties and titles because of his relationship with Jeffrey Epstein.
Soon he'll again form part of the procession with the King, Princess Anne, Prince Edward, Prince William and Prince Harry.
All eyes are on the Royal Family with the stage set for the send-off of the century.
