Westminster Abbey tour

Marvel at the incredible architecture of Westminster Abbey, an active place of worship and Unesco World Heritage Site in London.

Founded by Benedictine monks in 960 AD, the abbey is Britain's coronation church and the setting for many special ceremonies, including the wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton in 2011 and the State Funeral of Queen Elizabeth II in 2022.

What is there to see at Westminster Abbey?

Westminster Abbey has been the site of coronation for all British monarchs since 1066 and is home to the ancient Coronation Chair, which is found in St George’s Chapel.

It is also the final resting place of 30 kings and queens with memorials to Edward the Confessor, Richard II, Elizabeth I, Mary Queen of Scots and more royal tombs found within the abbey. 

Visit Poets’ Corner, where more than 100 poets and writers are buried or commemorated, including Geoffrey Chaucer, William Shakespeare, Jane Austen and Charles Dickens.

Step inside the Lady Chapel and gaze up at its awe-inspiring vaulted ceiling; see ancient murals at The Chapter House in the East Cloister; enjoy the Queen’s Window designed by world-renowned artist David Hockney; and head to the West Door to pay tribute to the statues of 10 heroic Modern Martyrs, including Martin Luther King Jr. 

History of Westminster Abbey

Westminster Abbey, formally titled the Collegiate Church of Saint Peter at Westminster, was founded by Benedictine monks in 960 AD.

In the 1040s, King Edward the Confessor began rebuilding and enlarging Saint Peter's Abbey to create a royal burial church. Construction of the present church began in 1245 on the orders of King Henry III. The monastery was dissolved in 1559, and the church was made a royal peculiar, accountable directly to the sovereign, by Elizabeth I.

Since 1066, it has been the site of the coronations of 40 monarchs, and the final resting place of 30 kings and queens. At least 16 royal weddings have taken place at the abbey since 1100, including the wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton in 2011.

How long does a visit take?

With so much history and heritage to discover, you could easily spend two to three hours exploring Westminster Abbey. 

How to book tickets to Westminster Abbey

Tickets can be booked online in advance – book Westminster Abbey tickets now. Multimedia guides are available in multiple languages and included with your ticket.

Simply select the day you would like to visit and choose either morning or afternoon entry.

• Morning entry: weekdays (9.30am to 12pm), Saturdays (9am to 12pm)
• Afternoon entry: weekdays (12pm to 3pm), Saturdays (12pm to 2.30pm)

Westminster Abbey guided tour

Gain in depth knowledge about the incredible architecture and fascinating history of Westminster Abbey on a professional guided tour. See the main features of the historical royal church, admire the impressive interiors of one of London's most iconic landmarks and learn about its historic past. Tour options include the chance to visit Houses of Parliament, dependent on tour option chosen.

Book your place on upcoming Westminster Abbey guided tours.

Can you visit Westminster Abbey for free?

Westminster Abbey is an active place of worship. You can only visit Westminster Abbey for free if you are attending a service.

Can I go to a service?

All are welcome to attend the daily services for free, including morning prayer, holy communion, sung eucharist and evensong. 

There are also a number of special services throughout the year, which are by invitation only or may require tickets to be booked in advance. 

Westminster Abbey opening times

Westminster Abbey is open from 9.30am to 3.30pm from Monday to Friday, and 9am to 3pm on Saturday. On Sunday, it is open for worship only. Opening times may vary, depending on events and services taking place in the abbey.

Is there a gift shop?

Westminster Abbey has two gift shops, offering an extensive range of items and souvenirs to remember your visit. From books and jewellery to gifts, many of the items are inspired by the history of the abbey, the royal family and London.

Where is Westminster Abbey?

Westminster Abbey is in Westminster, central London.

How to get to Westminster Abbey

• Tube - The closest Tube stations are Westminster (Jubilee, District and Circle lines) and St James's Park (Jubilee, District and Circle lines), which are both about five minutes' walk away.
• Bus - Various bus routes stop close to Westminster Abbey (bus lines 11, 24, 26, 148 and 211).
• Cycling - Rent a bike with Santander Cycles and take the direction of Westminster Abbey. You can find docking stations at Storey’s Gate and Westminster Pier.