Step inside Westminster Abbey on a Coronations tour

On this exciting royal tour, visitors will discover the stories behind no less than 39 coronations at Westminster Abbey. From William the Conqueror in 1066 to Their Majesties King Charles III and Queen Camilla in 2023, this immersive 75‑minute guided tour brings nearly a thousand years of royal history to life. 

Learn how each coronation is carefully planned, uncover the symbolism behind the sacred regalia, and follow the ceremonial journey from the Nave to the High Altar inside the Abbey that has hosted every British coronation since 1066. Along the way, hear stories of monarchs past and present, and discover notable figures laid to rest here, with engaging insights and memorable details that make this experience just as rewarding for first-time visitors as it is for history lovers.

What you’ll see on the Coronations tour 

• The Coronation Chair, used in royal coronations for more than 700 years 
  
• The Nave, where the coronation procession begins 
• The Quire, bringing the ceremony to life through music
• The High Altar, where the crowning takes place
• Poets’ Corner, steeped in royal and literary history
• The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Galleries, showcasing manuscripts and replica regalia from past coronations 

A look at the Westminster Abbey Coronations tour: Highlights and impressions

Arriving at Westminster Abbey, the first thing that strikes me is the sheer size, with its impressive stone towers and grand entrances. Even if you have not visited before, the facade may feel familiar as it has often formed the backdrop to countless royal moments.

Stepping inside, the sense of history only grows. After meeting the guide at a designated tour point, he leads us through the Abbey where the tour begins at a portrait of Henry III. The man responsible for having the Abbey rebuilt into its current grand gothic style as he disliked the former look of it. Next to the portrait is the first highlight of the tour, the Coronation Chair. Commissioned by Edward I in 1296 and still used today. Seeing it up close is striking not for its grandeur alone, but for its powerful connection between past and present. Covered in old graffiti, it tells its own story – a reminder of its long history and the many hands and moments it has witnessed.

Another standout for me is the Quire, where intricate medieval woodwork meets gleaming organ pipes. It’s easy to pause here and imagine the music that fills the space during a coronation, bringing the ceremony to life. Stepping into the Nave, the soaring ceiling naturally draws your gaze upwards before revealing its remarkable architectural detail.

At the High Altar within the Coronation Theatre, you see where the crowning takes place. With the guide sharing footage of the coronation of King Charles III, it becomes easier to visualise how tradition unfolds in this very spot.

A particularly memorable stop for me is Poets’ Corner, the resting place of literary greats. The blend of cultural and royal history here is unique, and seeing the memorial to William Shakespeare is a highlight for anyone with a love of literature.

High above the Abbey floor, the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Galleries offer a different perspective. Here, illustrated manuscripts, replica regalia, and historic garments provide insight into preparations for royal ceremonies. The display of tightly laced corsets offers a striking glimpse into royal fashion of the past, while the elevated viewpoint across the Abbey makes the visit worthwhile. The galleries feel like the most concentrated encounter with royal history along the route and provide a fitting conclusion to the tour.

Is the Coronations tour at Westminster Abbey worth it? 

The guide strikes an excellent balance between informative and engaging, sharing insights not only about coronations but also the Abbey’s architecture and the lives of monarchs connected to it.  

There’s a strong sense of the Abbey as a welcoming space, where people from all walks of life gather – whether for worship, history or curiosity. It’s this blend of storytelling, setting and atmosphere that makes the Coronations tour feel both accessible and memorable.

This is the perfect tour for royal enthusiasts who are looking for a deeper dive into the Abbey's past with a keen interest in royal pageantry and impressive Gothic architecture.

Plan your visit 

• 🧥 What to wear: As Westminster Abbey is an active place of worship, respectful clothing is recommended. The floors are uneven and some areas require stairs or a lift, so comfortable footwear is advised.
• ⌚ Arrive a little early: If opening times allow, aim to arrive up to an hour before your tour to explore at your own pace. This gives you the chance to pause, take in the surroundings and enjoy the Abbey independently before the guided experience begins.
• #️⃣ Tour capacity: The tour is given in English and is limited to small groups of up to 15 people, creating a more personal experience.
• 🚶 Walking from Westminster station: If you’re combining your visit with the Houses of Parliament, it’s around an five-minute walk from Big Ben, taking you through one of London’s most iconic and picturesque areas.
• 🎫 How to book tickets: Tickets for the Coronations tour can be booked via the official website. There are a limited number of tickets, so boking ahead is recommended.

More royal experiences in London

You can find plenty of royal London experiences in the city, from walking tours to attractions and many beautiful palaces. Discover more ways to explore London's royal history now:

• Changing of the Guard walking tour
• Windsor Castle
• Tower of London
• Buckingham Palace: Summer opening
• Kensington Palace
• Hampton Court Palace