LONDON - Tens of thousands of people have lined the royal wedding route hours before Prince William and Kate Middleton marry, with the crowd in a jovial mood despite steely gray skies over London.

Many were wrapped in British flags and others painted their faces with the Union Jack. Thousands camped out overnight in front of Westminster Abbey and Buckingham Palace.

The crowds continued to stream toward both locations Friday. Even babies were taking part in the mood, with one sleepy boy on a bus after dawn whose stroller was decorated with small British flags.

Dedicated royal watchers camped outside got an unexpected surprise - a visit from William. He emerged from his residence Thursday night to greet the hordes of well-wishers gathered along the processional route.