Dating back to 960 A.D., Westminster Abbey is a significant, historic and religious institution that tells the story of England. Recognised for its striking Gothic architecture, featuring a grand nave, the Henry VII Lady Chapel and two Portland stoned towers, it serves as a site for worship, royal coronations, weddings and burials. The Anglican church is one of London’s top sights, so if you’ve set your eye on visiting it, here’s everything you need to know before you go.
Background on Westminster Abbey
The origins of the church can be traced back to the 10th century, when a community of Benedictine monks settled in the middle of the River Thames. However, it wasn’t until King Edward the Confessor’s reign that the original structure was first built. Two centuries later Henry III ordered for the building to be finished and expanded following a Gothic style between 1220 and 1272.
Thanks to its imposing architecture and intricate details, Westminster Abbey is indeed one of the most beautiful churches in London. But it’s the stories connected to the national identity that most attracts tourists to its centuries-old doors. The Abbey has been the coronation church since 1066 as well as the burial place for 17 monarchs and other notable figures, including Queen Elizabeth I, Mary Queen of Scots, Sir Isaac Newton and Stephen Hawking.
Where is Westminster Abbey and how to get there
Situated in central London, at Dean’s Yard, there are many transport options within reach. The nearest Tube stations are Westminster and St James’s Park but you can also take the 11, 24, 26, 148, and 211 buses to Westminster Abbey. What’s more, while it’s not advisable to drive in the centre due to traffic, there is also a car park on Great College Street only a three-minute walk from the church.
What to expect when you visit
A typical visit and audio-guided tours take about 1-2 hours, depending on each visitor. However, there are other guided tours that last around 60-90 minutes and guarantee no queues.
Since it’s one of London’s top attractions, you can always expect visitors on Saturdays during lunchtime. Additionally, Westminster tends to be busiest in the summer between May and September, on Easter and the holidays.
What else can you do when you visit?
Besides its Sunday service and guided tours, you can have your afternoon tea at the Cellarium Café and Terrace, located in the cloisters of Westminster Abbey and away from the busy London streets.
FAQs
Can you visit Westminster for free?
Free admission is only granted to children aged five and under. You can visit Westminster for free only if you attend the services or for individual prayer, but you won’t be allowed to see all its spaces.
Is Westminster Abbey Catholic or Protestant?
Although it was originally Catholic, it was converted to the Church of England during the Reformation in the 16th century.
How to avoid crowds when visiting Westminster Abbey?
It’s always best to avoid peak hours and busy days. But you can also avoid long queues if you book in advance or use the London Pass because it offers free access.
Get your tickets to visit Westminster Abbey
Visiting London or living here, don’t pass up on a visit to The Abbey. For as little as £27, you can visit the church’s many spaces, such as the royal tombs, Poets’ Corner, the Lady Chapel and the Nave. Included is a multimedia guide offered in 14 languages available for a small charge or download the free Westminster Abbey app to listen to the audio commentary. Since it remains a working church, some areas may be closed off so as not to interrupt the church’s religious proceedings.
Organising a trip can be difficult at times, particularly if you’re planning to visit a huge metropolis like London. So we are making it a little less stressful by giving you all the info you need before seeing one of the city’s most historic locations.
No matter if you’ve lived in London your entire life, are visiting for only a couple of days, or a few hours, you should prioritise seeing Westminster Abbey. You’ll better understand the major events in English history.