Westminster Abbey: Where British Kings Are Crowned and Legends Rest

Welcome to Westminster Abbey, one of London’s most historic and iconic landmarks. As your virtual guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make your visit memorable—from its royal past to its awe-inspiring architecture, famous tombs, and essential visitor info.
 

Located in the heart of Westminster, just steps from the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is much more than a church—it's a living symbol of British heritage.

📍 Where Is Westminster Abbey?

Westminster Abbey is located in central London, near the River Thames in the City of Westminster. Its exact address is:

20 Deans Yd, London SW1P 3PA, United Kingdom

Nearest Underground station: Westminster (Jubilee, Circle, and District lines) – just a 5-minute walk away.

🕰️ A Brief History of Westminster Abbey

👑 The Crown’s Church

Founded in 960 AD as a Benedictine monastery.

Rebuilt in 1065 by Edward the Confessor, who was later canonized and buried here.

Current Gothic structure began in 1245 under King Henry III.

The site of every British coronation since 1066, beginning with William the Conqueror.

Through centuries, Westminster Abbey has witnessed royal weddings, state funerals, and coronations—including that of King Charles III.

🎟️ Tickets and Opening Hours

⏰ Opening Times (subject to change):

Monday–Saturday: 9:30 AM – 3:30 PM (last entry: 3:00 PM)

Sunday: Closed for sightseeing (open only for services)

🎫 Ticket Prices:

Adults: £29

Students/Seniors: £26

Children (6–17): £13

Under 6: Free

Family and group tickets available

Includes access to the Abbey, Cloisters, Chapter House, and Poets’ Corner

Tip: Purchase tickets online to avoid queues.

🏰 Top Things to See in Westminster Abbey

1. 👑 The Coronation Chair

One of the most famous artifacts in British history, this 700-year-old oak chair has been used in every coronation since 1308. It once held the Stone of Scone, symbolizing the union of English and Scottish monarchy.

2. 🪦 Poets’ Corner

Pay homage to Britain’s literary giants in Poets’ Corner, where figures like William Shakespeare, Geoffrey Chaucer, Charles Dickens, and Jane Austen are honored. Some are buried here, others memorialized.

3. ⚰️ Royal Tombs and Monarchs

Westminster Abbey is the final resting place of 17 monarchs, including:

Queen Elizabeth I and Mary, Queen of Scots

Edward the Confessor

Henry V

The intricate tombs and effigies are marvels of craftsmanship and royal devotion.

4. 🪞 The Lady Chapel (Henry VII’s Chapel)

A masterpiece of Gothic architecture, this stunning chapel features:

Ornate fan-vaulted ceilings

The Tomb of Henry VII

Home to the Order of the Bath ceremonies

This sacred space is one of the most beautiful chapels in England.

5. ⛪ The Nave and High Altar

Stretching 31 meters high, the nave is where national services, such as royal weddings and funerals, are held. The High Altar, remodeled in the 19th century, is at the heart of spiritual life in the Abbey.

6. 📖 The Chapter House

One of the oldest parts of the Abbey, used by medieval monks for meetings. Inside you’ll find:

Medieval floor mosaics

13th-century wall paintings

An original Magna Carta document display

7. ☕ The Cloisters and College Garden

Walk through peaceful cloisters once used by Benedictine monks and explore the College Garden, considered one of the oldest gardens in England—cultivated for over 900 years!

📸 Best Photo Spots

Front façade with Big Ben in the background

The Abbey’s North Door with intricate Gothic carvings

The Nave and Vaulted Ceilings from inside

The Cloisters for serene architecture shots

Poets’ Corner memorials

🎖️ Ceremonies and Royal Events

Highlights include:

Coronation ceremonies since 1066

Royal weddings, such as Prince William & Catherine Middleton in 2011

State funerals of monarchs and public figures

Daily services and choral evensongs open to the public (free entry for worship)

🛍️ Westminster Abbey Shop

Take home a memory from the official gift shop with:

Coronation-themed items

Abbey guidebooks and literature

Replica royal jewelry

Stationery, homeware, and children’s gifts

Exclusive Poets’ Corner collections

🧭 Suggested Walking Route for Visitors

Start at the Great West Door

Visit the Nave and Coronation Chair

Move to Poets’ Corner

Explore the Lady Chapel and Royal Tombs

Stroll through the Cloisters and Chapter House

End at the Gift Shop

Average time to explore: 1.5 to 2 hours

🏨 Where to Stay Near Westminster Abbey

Luxury:

The Corinthia Hotel London – 5-star, riverside elegance

The Goring – A royal favorite in Belgravia

Conrad London St. James – Modern luxury near Parliament

Mid-Range:

hub by Premier Inn Westminster – Affordable and modern

The Sanctuary House Hotel – Charming pub-style hotel

Point A Hotel Westminster – Compact and convenient

🍽️ Where to Eat Nearby

Cellarium Café & Terrace – Within the Abbey, ideal for tea or lunch

Roux at Parliament Square – Upscale British cuisine

The Red Lion Pub – Traditional English pub near Whitehall

Pret a Manger – Great for quick and healthy bites

🚆 How to Get to Westminster Abbey

Underground: Westminster Station (Jubilee, Circle, District)

By Bus: Several routes stop at Westminster Abbey

By Foot: Easily walkable from Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, or Trafalgar Square

Hop-on Hop-off Tours: Almost all London sightseeing buses include a stop here

📅 Best Time to Visit

Weekdays in the morning – Best for fewer crowds

April to June & September to October – Mild weather, ideal for walking

Avoid Sundays – No sightseeing, services only

🧒 Family-Friendly Tips

Free admission for children under 6

Family activity trails available

Stroller-friendly paths in most areas

Short guided tours available for kids

♿ Accessibility

Wheelchair access to most areas

Step-free entrance available

Accessible toilets and lifts

Free companion tickets available

✨ Fun Facts About Westminster Abbey

The tallest Gothic nave in England

Site of 30+ royal coronations

Houses 3,300+ burials and memorials

It inspired the “wedding cake” towers on many Victorian churches

📖 Did You Know?

Queen Elizabeth I and her cousin, Mary Queen of Scots, are buried on opposite sides of the Abbey.

The abbey was briefly turned into a cathedral under Henry VIII’s reforms.

The Unknown Warrior, a soldier from WWI, lies at the west entrance, honored by millions.

💬 Final Thoughts: Why Visit Westminster Abbey?

Visiting Westminster Abbey is like walking through the pages of British history. From kings and queens to poets and scientists, this majestic structure is a sacred space of national identity, beauty, and cultural importance.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a lover of architecture, or simply exploring London’s greatest landmarks, Westminster Abbey is a must-visit destination that promises insight, inspiration, and awe.