Visit Westminster Abbey — Britain’s coronation church for nearly 1,000 years. Discover royal tombs, Gothic architecture, and living history in London.

Visit Westminster Abbey London

Few buildings hold as much history as Westminster Abbey. Standing beside the Palace of Westminster, this Gothic masterpiece has been the setting for every English and British coronation since 1066. It’s also the final resting place of monarchs, poets, scientists, and statesmen — a living symbol of Britain’s heritage.

Walking through its grand nave and intricate chapels feels like stepping into a thousand years of national memory.

A Church of Kings and Queens

The abbey’s story begins in the 10th century, when Benedictine monks established a small church on this site. In 1042, King Edward the Confessor rebuilt it in Romanesque style as his royal burial church. A century later, Henry III transformed it into the soaring Gothic structure we see today.

Since William the Conqueror’s coronation in 1066, every British monarch has been crowned here — a tradition unbroken for nearly 1,000 years. The most recent coronation, that of King Charles III in 2023, continued this royal legacy.

Architecture and Artistry
The Gothic Masterpiece

Westminster Abbey is one of Europe’s finest examples of English Gothic architecture. Its tall pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and stained-glass windows fill the space with light and grandeur.

The Nave and Quire

The vast nave stretches 30 metres high, leading to the ornate Quire, where daily services are still sung by the famous Abbey Choir. The sound of choral music drifting through the stone arches is unforgettable.

Monuments and Royal Tombs

Over 3,000 people are buried or memorialised within Westminster Abbey. Among them are 17 monarchs, as well as artists, scientists, and national heroes.

Highlights include:

The Tomb of the Unknown Warrior – A simple grave honouring fallen soldiers of World War I.

Elizabeth I and Mary Queen of Scots – Rivals in life, they now rest within the same sacred walls.

Poets’ Corner – Memorials to Shakespeare, Chaucer, Dickens, Austen, and more.

Isaac Newton and Charles Darwin – Great minds of science buried side by side.

Each monument tells a story — of power, genius, or sacrifice — woven into Britain’s collective history.

Royal Ceremonies and National Events

Westminster Abbey has witnessed some of the most significant moments in the nation’s life. Royal weddings — including Prince William and Catherine Middleton’s in 2011 — have filled its aisles with splendour.

State funerals and memorials, such as those of Queen Elizabeth II and Sir Winston Churchill, remind visitors that this is not just a monument, but a place of living tradition.

The Chapter House and Cloisters

Step into the Chapter House, where medieval monks once met for daily readings and decisions. Its 13th-century wall paintings and stained glass are remarkably preserved.

The Cloisters, connecting the abbey to the monastic buildings, offer peaceful views and glimpses of Westminster’s past. These shaded walkways were used by monks for study, reflection, and quiet prayer.

Things to Do Nearby

Combine your visit with nearby landmarks for a full day of Westminster exploration:

Palace of Westminster – Seat of the UK Parliament and Big Ben.

Churchill War Rooms – Discover the secret underground HQ of World War II.

St James’s Park – A royal park ideal for walks and picnics.

Downing Street – The Prime Minister’s residence.

Banqueting House Whitehall – Once part of the old Tudor palace complex.

Plan Your Visit

Managed by: The Dean and Chapter of Westminster

Entry: Paid admission; online booking recommended.

Location: 20 Dean’s Yard, Westminster, London SW1P 3PA.

Transport: Nearest stations – Westminster or St James’s Park.

Opening Hours: Monday–Saturday, 9:30am–3:30pm (hours vary seasonally).

Services: Free entry for worship; regular choral evensong and special events.

Facilities: Shop, café, restrooms, and accessible routes.

For more information, please visit Official Westminster Abbey website

Why Visit Westminster Abbey?

The Westminster Abbey London experience connects visitors to the heart of British identity. It’s where kings and queens are crowned, where heroes are honoured, and where history continues to unfold.

Whether you come for faith, art, or heritage, this sacred space leaves a lasting impression.

Step through its ancient doors — and walk among the legends of England at Westminster Abbey.