Westminster Abbey

Discover a World Heritage Site that is still an active place of worship and a cultural landmark visited by over 1 million people per year. Founded by Benedictine monks in 960 AD, Westminster Abbey is Britain’s coronation church and a beautiful example of Gothic architecture. It’s frequently used for many special ceremonies and events, including the wedding of Prince William and Kate, the Duchess of Cambridge, in 2011.

What is there to see at Westminster Abbey?

Since 1066, Westminster Abbey has been the site of coronation for all English and British monarchs. Star attractions include the ancient Coronation Chair, which is found in St George’s Chapel and features some cheeky graffiti from 18th and 19th century visitors to the Abbey.

Other highlights include Poets’ Corner, where over 100 poets and writers are buried or commemorated. The literary hall of fame starts with Geoffrey Chaucer, who wrote The Canterbury Tales and was buried here in 1400. The site now honors big-name authors including William Shakespeare, Jane Austen, the Brontë Sisters, George Eliot, D. H. Lawrence and Charles Dickens.

You’ll also find 30 kings and queens buried at the Abbey. Go on a history trail and discover monarchs including Edward the Confessor, Richard II, Elizabeth I, Mary Queen of Scots and James I.

Don’t miss the chance to also marvel at the building’s stunning internal architecture and countless artworks. Step inside the Lady Chapel to gaze up at its awe-inspiring vaulted ceiling. Or poke your nose into The Chapter House in the East Cloister to see some remarkable paintings of scenes from the Apocalypse.

And it’s not all history. Westminster Abbey has several modern additions worth spotting. Fans of contemporary art will enjoy the Queen’s Window, which was designed by world-renowned artist David Hockney and installed in 2018. And at the West Door stand the ten statues of modern martyrs, such as Martin Luther King Jr, who gave up their lives for their beliefs.

Can I go to a service at Westminster Abbey?

Westminster Abbey is an active place of worship which is open every day. Services include Morning Prayer, Holy Communion, Sung Eucharist and Evensong. All are welcome to attend the services, free of charge. Security checks are in place at the door.

The Abbey is also used for a number of special services throughout the year. Attendance is by invite only, although for some events you can apply in advance for tickets.

Does Westminster Abbey have a gift shop?

Westminster Abbey has two giftshops on-site. The larger main shop is at Broad Sanctuary and the smaller Cellarium Shop is found at Dean’s Yard alongside the Café and Terrace. Both branches sell an extensive range of items perfect for gifting or remembering your trip to the Abbey. Many of the products on sale are inspired by the Abbey, London or the Royal Family.

How can I get tickets to Westminster Abbey?

Tickets to the Abbey can be bought direct from Westminster Abbey’s website. Booking via the website gives guaranteed timed entry. Alternatively, you can buy tickets at the Abbey on arrival. The Abbey is free to enter with the London Pass.

Where is Westminster Abbey?

Westminster Abbey is on the south side of Parliament Square in Westminster, central London.

How do I get to Westminster Abbey?

The closest tube stations are Westminster and St James Park. Both are 2-3mins walk from the Abbey.

The area is well served by bus routes, with bus numbers 11, 24, 87, 88, 148, 211 all running very close to the Abbey.

There are also Santander Cycles docking station at Storey’s Gate (2 min walk from Abbey) and Westminster Pier (3 min walk from Abbey).

What are Westminster Abbey’s opening hours?

Westminster Abbey is open for general admittance from Monday to Friday from 9.30am to 3.30pm. On Saturdays it is open from 9am to 1pm. On Sundays it is closed to visitors, but open to worshippers.

It closes to visitors one hour after the last entry (4:30pm, Monday – Friday and 2pm on Saturdays).

How long does it take to go around Westminster Abbey?

With so many different things to see, it would be easy to spend most of the day at Westminster Abbey. We recommend planning for at least 2 – 3 hours, including stopping off for some refreshments at the Cellarium Café and Terrace, which is open from breakfast onwards.

Make time to also check out the main Westminster Abbey shop (Broad Sanctuary) or the smaller Cellarium shop (Dean’s Yard) and pick up some gifts and memorabilia inspired by the Abbey and London.