A UNESCO World Heritage site, with a legacy dating back more than 1,000 years, Westminster Abbey is among London’s most historic landmarks. The Gothic church is best known for hosting headline-grabbing events involving the British royal family, such as the Queen’s coronation, Princess Diana's funeral, and Prince William and Kate Middleton’s wedding.
The Basics
A tour of Westminster Abbey is like taking a walk through British history. Explore independently with an audio guide, on a tour led by a verger (church official), or with a private guide. Tickets include access to all the main areas of the church. The London Pass also grants access to Westminster Abbey.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Booking in advance will help you avoid waiting in long lines. Otherwise, be prepared to queue for up to an hour at peak times, especially in July and August.
- As the abbey is a place of worship, visitors are asked to dress modestly, and due to its uneven floor and steps, comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
- Taking photos or videos is not permitted within the abbey.
- Some, but not all, areas of the abbey are wheelchair accessible. Wheelchair users should enter by the North Door; admission is free.
- On-site facilities include restrooms, a café, and a gift shop.
How to Get to Westminster Abbey
Westminster Abbey is located close to the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben in Central London, a short stroll from the Thames riverfront. The nearest tube stations are St. James's Park and Westminster. The visitor entrance to the abbey is at the West Gate of the North Green.
When to Get There
Westminster Abbey is open to visitors every day except Sundays and on religious holidays, when the church is open to worshippers only. To avoid crowds, arrive early on a weekday. To hear the Abbey Choir perform, time your visit for the daily Evensong (weekdays at 5pm and weekends at 3pm). Special after-hours tours also run on Wednesday evenings, typically one of the quietest times to visit.
What to See at Westminster Abbey
Visitors can see the Shrine, containing the tomb of Saint Edward the Confessor; the Royal Tombs, including the tombs of Queen Elizabeth I and Mary, Queen of Scots; the Poets' Corner, where a number of creatives are buried or commemorated; the Nave; the 13th-century Cloisters; and memorials devoted to Isaac Newton, Oscar Wilde, Shakespeare, and many more notable figures. For the full experience, end your visit with a stroll through the beautiful College Garden and a traditional afternoon tea at the Cellarium Café.
