Discover Westminster Abbey | A Visitor's Introduction to Westminster Abbey

Why Visit Westminster Abbey?

Westminster Abbey is a testament to over a thousand years of British history and tradition. Its role as the setting for coronations, royal weddings, and state funerals, combined with its extraordinary architecture and artistic heritage, make it an unmissable destination for visitors to London. Whether you are drawn by the splendour of its Gothic design, its collection of royal tombs, or the stories of the famous figures commemorated within its walls, the abbey offers a rich and inspiring experience that captures the essence of British history and identity.

Westminster Abbey Historical Background

The history of Westminster Abbey dates back to the 7th century, when a Benedictine monastery was first established on the site. King Edward the Confessor began constructing a larger Romanesque church in the mid-11th century, which was consecrated in 1065, just days before his death. This original structure was replaced in the 13th century by the Gothic abbey we see today, initiated by King Henry III. Built to house Edward the Confessor’s shrine and serve as a royal burial site, the new church was designed in the French Gothic style and took over a century to complete.

Westminster Abbey’s historical significance grew over the centuries as it became the site of nearly every English and later British coronation since that of William the Conqueror in 1066. It has also hosted numerous royal weddings and is the final resting place of 17 monarchs. The abbey continues to play a central role in British state and religious ceremonies, including the funeral service for Queen Elizabeth II in 2022.

Architectural and Interior Highlights

The abbey is an architectural masterpiece, exemplifying the English Gothic style with its intricate stonework, pointed arches, and towering spires. Inside, visitors are greeted by a series of chapels, monuments, and memorials that reflect the abbey’s storied history and significance as a place of worship and remembrance.

1. The Nave: The longest Gothic nave in England, Westminster Abbey’s nave is an awe-inspiring space characterized by its ribbed vaulting, slender columns, and large windows that flood the interior with light. The nave serves as the approach to the high altar and provides a sense of grandeur and scale, setting the tone for the rest of the visit.

2. The Choir and Sanctuary: Located beyond the nave, the choir and sanctuary are richly decorated areas where the abbey’s daily services take place. The high altar, adorned with a magnificent mosaic floor known as the Cosmati Pavement, dates back to the 13th century and is the traditional site of coronations. The wooden choir stalls, intricately carved with medieval designs, frame this sacred space.

3. The Coronation Chair: One of the abbey’s most treasured artifacts, the Coronation Chair has been used in the coronations of nearly every British monarch since King Edward I commissioned it in 1296. Originally designed to enclose the Stone of Scone—symbolic of Scottish kingship—the chair is kept in St. George’s Chapel when not in use. It is a centrepiece of the abbey’s rich coronation history.

4. Poets’ Corner: Located in the south transept, Poets’ Corner is dedicated to the memory of Britain’s most celebrated writers, poets, and playwrights. The corner contains the tombs and memorials of figures such as Geoffrey Chaucer, Charles Dickens, and William Shakespeare. It remains a place of literary pilgrimage and celebration of English literature.

5. The Lady Chapel (Henry VII’s Chapel): Often regarded as one of the most beautiful parts of the abbey, the Lady Chapel was added in the early 16th century by King Henry VII. Its fan-vaulted ceiling, intricate stone carvings, and stained-glass windows are remarkable examples of late Gothic architecture. The chapel also houses the tombs of Henry VII and his queen, Elizabeth of York, as well as the Battle of Britain Memorial window, commemorating those who fought in the pivotal air campaign during World War II.

6. The Tomb of the Unknown Warrior: A poignant memorial, the Tomb of the Unknown Warrior lies at the west end of the nave. It was established in 1920 to honour an unidentified British soldier killed during World War I and serves as a tribute to all those who have died in military service. The tomb, set in black marble, is the only one in the abbey over which visitors are not permitted to walk.

7. Royal Tombs and Monuments: Westminster Abbey is the burial site of numerous monarchs, including Edward the Confessor, Henry V, Elizabeth I, and Mary, Queen of Scots. The royal tombs are often adorned with elaborate effigies, sculptures, and inscriptions, showcasing the grandeur and artistry of funerary monuments from different historical periods.

8. The Chapter House: Built in the 13th century, the Chapter House is where the abbey’s monks met daily to conduct business. Its octagonal design, colorful medieval wall paintings, and stained-glass windows make it a beautiful and serene space. The Chapter House also played a role in early parliamentary meetings, further emphasizing Westminster Abbey’s importance in British history.

Key Attractions and Activities

1. Guided and Audio Tours: Visitors can explore the abbey with the help of guided or audio tours that provide detailed commentary on its history, architecture, and notable residents. Expert guides share stories of coronations, burials, and the lives of the many people commemorated within its walls. The audio guide is narrated by Jeremy Irons and is available in multiple languages.

2. Verger-Led Tours: For a more in-depth experience, verger-led tours take small groups into areas usually closed to the public, including the shrine of Edward the Confessor. These tours offer a rare opportunity to see parts of the abbey that are not accessible on standard visits.

3. Special Exhibitions and Events: The abbey hosts a range of temporary exhibitions and special events throughout the year, exploring different aspects of its history and collections. These events can include concerts, lectures, and seasonal services, making each visit unique.

4. The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Galleries: Opened in 2018, these galleries are located high above the abbey floor in the medieval triforium, offering stunning views of the church’s interior. The exhibition space features a collection of treasures from the abbey’s history, including ancient manuscripts, royal artifacts, and the 13th-century Westminster Retable, England’s oldest surviving altarpiece.

Visitor Facilities and Practical Information

Opening Hours: Westminster Abbey is typically open to visitors from Monday to Saturday, with worship services held on Sundays. However, hours may vary due to special events or services, so it is advisable to check the abbey’s website for the most up-to-date information.

Tickets and Admission: Admission tickets can be purchased online or on-site, with discounted rates available for children, seniors, and families. Visitors are encouraged to book in advance to avoid long queues, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Accessibility: The abbey is accessible for visitors with mobility impairments, with step-free access available via the North Door. Wheelchairs are provided free of charge, and there are accessible restrooms on-site. The abbey also offers large-print guides and hearing loops for visitors with visual or hearing impairments.

Café and Gift Shop: The Cellarium Café and Terrace, located in the medieval undercroft, offers a variety of meals, snacks, and refreshments. It provides a quiet setting to relax before or after a tour. The abbey’s gift shop sells a range of souvenirs, books, and gifts inspired by its history and architecture.

Nearby Attractions

Houses of Parliament: Located just across the street, the Houses of Parliament offers guided tours that complement a visit to Westminster Abbey, providing deeper insights into British political history and architecture.

St. James’s Park: A short walk from the abbey, St. James’s Park is one of London’s oldest and most beautiful parks, ideal for a leisurely stroll with views of Buckingham Palace.

Churchill War Rooms: Just a few minutes away, the Churchill War Rooms allow visitors to explore the underground bunker where Winston Churchill and his cabinet directed the British war effort during World War II.

Trafalgar Square and the National Gallery: A 15-minute walk from Westminster Abbey, Trafalgar Square and the National Gallery offer cultural and artistic experiences, with world-class art collections and historic monuments.