In case you didn’t know, the Pope is currently on a visit to the UK. He was in Scotland yesterday and has been in London today. He’s here for just two more days. If you haven’t yet seen him, but would like to, then here’s how to catch a glimpse if you haven’t got the passes that are required to attend some of the events.
Saturday
Arguably the best time for the public to do a bit of Pope-spotting is at 6pm when he will travel in the Popemobile along London’s Horse Guards Road, The Mall, Constitution Hill and Hyde Park Corner before arriving at Hyde Park for the Prayer Vigil at around 6.30pm. For more information, see www.tfl.gov.uk/gettingaround/16641.aspx
Sunday
If you can’t get to London, then on Sunday he’ll be in the West Midlands. Following mass at Cofton Park, he is expected to travel in the Popemobile along a stretch of Birmingham’s Hagley Road to allow an additional opportunity to see him on this the final day of his visit. The Pope will travel along a two-mile section of the road, from an area close to the junction of Portland Road and the Oratory. This viewing opportunity will occur at some time after 12.30pm. He’ll moving at a speed of 6mph so the short journey will last around 20 minutes. For more information, see www.birmingham.gov.uk/papalvisit
If you’re going to any of these venues, make sure you arrive early. Crowds will be inevitable and some roads may be closed to allow for the Pope’s visits. And if you can’t get to either of these locations, the events will be streamed live online on the Foreign Office website.
Useful links:
Foreign & Commonwealth Office guide to the Papal visit
Hotels in London
Hotels in Birmingham
