The Queen Consort opens the Field of Remembrance 2022

Thursday, 10th November 2022

The Queen Consort receives a cross of remembrance from a member of the Armed Forces.

Her Majesty The Queen Consort opened the 94th Field of Remembrance at Westminster Abbey on Thursday 10th November 2022.

The annual event, which marks the start of the nation’s Remembrance commemorations, has been held every year since 1928, when the Poppy Factory brought a tray of poppies and a collecting tin to the grounds of St Margaret's Church. Only a handful of poppies were planted around a single cross, but it began a tradition that has grown over the decades, and now a sea of scarlet poppies covers the Abbey grounds each November.

‘Pause in silent remembrance and gratitude’

In his welcome to this year’s event, the Dean of Westminster, the Very Reverend Dr David Hoyle, said:

‘For the 94th time at the Field of Remembrance we meet again to remember those who gave their lives in the conflicts of our time, that we might enjoy freedom and peace.

At the 11th hour, of the 11th day, of the 11th month of 1918, the First World War ended: that date, that time, have become a symbolic moment on which to pause in silent remembrance and gratitude. With full hearts at this, our Field of Remembrance, let us pray for the peace of the whole world.’

Cross of remembrance and two minutes' silence

Surgeon Rear Admiral Lionel Jarvis, President of the Poppy Factory, invited The Queen Consort to lay a cross of remembrance in front of two wooden crosses from the Graves of Unknown British Soldiers from the First and Second World Wars.

Last Post was sounded from the parapet of St Margaret's Church by a bandsman from the Scots Guards.

After the observance of two minutes’ silence, The Queen Consort toured the Field meeting veterans, representatives of military organisations and members of the public who had planted tributes in memory of their fallen comrades and loved ones.

Before departing, The Queen Consort was invited by the Dean to view a new plot dedicated to the memory of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

Visiting the Field of Remembrance

The Field of Remembrance will remain open until daily Sunday 20th November, and members of the public are invited to visit and to plant their own tributes, including at the plot in memory of Her late Majesty. All donations from visitors will be given to the Royal British Legion's Poppy Appeal.