Featuring the country’s largest flotilla in history, led by the Queen’s Royal barge and likely more Union Jacks than you can imagine, the Thames Diamond Jubilee Pageant on the 3rd of June is set to be one of the most impressive moments of the Jubilee celebration weekend. Starting between 2-3pm at Battersea Bridge and finishing at Tower Bridge between 5-6pm, there will be plenty of riverside opportunities to view the pageant. If you’re not one of the lucky ones who’ve scored a hotel room with a riverfront balcony, don’t worry, as around 50 big screens will be placed along the route for the crowds to follow the action. If you’re hoping to catch a glimpse of the Queen first-hand, plan your viewpoint in advance and remember that all Thames bridges will be closed for the duration of the pageant so you’ll be stuck on either the North or South Bank. Arrive early and expect some pretty immense crowds – most of London will be turning out for the occasion. To help you, here are a few of the best spots for catching a glimpse of Her Majesty:

1.The Thames Path follows the river’s South bank and is sure to be lined with onlookers - check the map of the procession for a rough guide to when and where the boats will be.

2.One of the most popular watch points will be along the Thames Embankment on the North side, stretching from Battersea bridge to Blackfriars bridge. You’ll need to arrive in good time to get a riverside position, but there are plenty of benches and walls to lean on along the stretch, making it one of the more comfortable options.

3.Stay on the south side of the river around the London Bridge area for the best views, as the north side will be clustered with private parties – the More London development and Potters’ Fields offer unbeatable lookouts, but again, get there early to bag a spot.

4.Lunch spots with a view will be in demand, but as long as you’re prepared to queue you should get a spot – try the DoubleTree Hilton where the Skylounge overlooks Tower Bridge and is open to non-guests, the Tate Modern café, overlooking the river or the Riverfront Café on the South Bank under Waterloo Bridge.

5.The Tower Bridge walkways and Somerset House’s terrace are both tipped to open up their incredible views to the public so keep an eye on their respective websites for news.

6.Grab yourself a picnic spot at the Victoria Tower Gardens (Westminster Tube) or the Victoria Embankment Gardens for a more relaxing way to watch the ships sail past.

7.Book a trip on the London Eye, which still has tickets left for June 3rd, where you’ll get an incredible panorama of the event – even if you’re not overhead as the boats pass, you’ll get a great view of the oncoming pageant.

8.For a unique view of the parade, head to St. Mary’s Churchyard, west of Battersea Bridge to watch the boats heading to the starting line or check out the boats the night before – they’ll be moored between Hammersmith and Battersea Bridges.