The Queen died peacefully at Balmoral Castle this afternoon, the royal family has announced, plunging the nation into mourning.
Her son, Charles, automatically succeeds her, becoming King and ruling over the UK and more than a dozen Commonwealth nations.
A statement from the royal family said the King and the Queen Consort would remain at Balmoral this evening and will return to London tomorrow.
Earlier, members of the royal family rushed to her bedside at Balmoral Castle after doctors became concerned for her health.
The Queen, 96, was Britain’s longest-serving monarch, having reigned for 70 years.
The flags in Downing Street were lowered to half mast at 6.36pm.
A period of national mourning is beginning, as tributes flood in from around the globe, hailing the Queen’s commitment to serving her country and the Commonwealth.
