Why Meghan and Kate didn't join the Queen's funeral procession

The Princess of Wales and the Duchess of Sussex were not part of the funeral procession ahead of Queen Elizabeth's funeral at Westminster Abbey on Monday, that honour being reserved for Her Majesty's four children and grandsons.

Funeral processions have traditionally been the domain of male members of the family, however the monarchy has been slowly modernising, with Princess Anne being included along with her brothers to formally mourn the loss.

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King Charles led the procession behind his mother's coffin on that short journey along with Princess Anne, Prince Andrew and Prince Edward.

Prince William and Prince Harry walked behind them, along with Peter Phillips, son of Princess Anne.

The Queen's granddaughter Zara Tindall, daughter of Princess Anne, was also not included in the procession.

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Kate and Meghan joined the group along with Prince George, nine, and Princess Charlotte, seven.

Prince George was led into the abbey by his father Prince William and Princess Charlotte was guided by her mother.

Meghan joined husband Prince Harry as the Queen's coffin was carried into the abbey.

The sisters-in-law were seated in separate rows inside the venue, with senior working royals being given preferential seating.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex were in the UK for a series of appearances when Her Majesty died unexpectedly on September 8 at Balmoral Castle in Scotland.

Only Princess Anne and King Charles made it in time to see her before she passed away.

William and Harry both arrived too late to bid their grandmother farewell.

The royal family will remain in an official period of mourning for a week following the Queen's state funeral, which was attended by approximately 2,000 people.

The Prince and Princess of Wales and the Duke and Duchess of Sussex have shown a united front following the Queen's death, appearing jointly at Windsor Castle to view floral tributes and participating in key events together, including a ceremony at Westminster Hall where Her Majesty lay in state ahead of her funeral.

Queen Elizabeth will be laid to rest in King George VI Memorial Chapel.

Husband Prince Philip, who died in 2021 and was entombed in the Royal Vault at Windsor Castle, will be moved to rest by his wife's side.