Westminster Abbey is Britain’s Coronation Church, where every British monarch has been crowned since 1066. First built by Benedictine monks in 960 AD, the abbey that stands there today is a glorious example of Gothic architecture, a fitting final resting place for kings, queens and many of Britain’s greatest achievers.
In addition to the main church, where you will find the famous Coronation Chair, the Abbey’s Chapter House and Pyx Chamber give a glimpse into medieval life and the history of British governance, showcasing some of the Abbey’s oldest architecture and artifacts. One of the Abbey’s highlights is Poets’ Corner, an area which honours British writers through the centuries where more than 100 literary legends are either buried or commemorated, including William Shakespeare, Geoffrey Chaucer, Jane Austen and Charles Dickens. The magnificent structure we see today was began in 1245, and within each corner of Westminster Abbey visitors will discover chapels dedicated to past monarchs of Britain, from Queen Elizabeth I to Mary, Queen of Scots, and other historical figures. At least 16 royal weddings have taken place in the abbey - including the wedding of William and Kate in 2011.
The Abbey's impressive Lady Chapel, built by Henry VII, is a breathtaking example of Gothic architecture, with its fan-vaulted ceiling and intricate stained glass windows. Visitors can also explore the Abbey’s cloisters, peaceful walkways that once served as a space for monks to pray and meditate, where memorials to renowned scientists like Isaac Newton and Stephen Hawking can be found. High above the abbey floor, the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Galleries, in the beautiful 13th Cetury triforium, display royal treasures reaching back nearly a thousand years.
The Abbey offers self-guided tours, audio guides, and guided group tours to help you make the most of your visit. The Abbey also invites visitors and guests to experience and enjoy the soaring acoustics of Choral Evensong and other special services. For families, interactive guides and a gift shop are available to engage children in the Abbey’s fascinating stories. Westminster Abbey is more than a historic building; it’s a living piece of history where you can connect with the legacy of British royalty, culture, and achievement through its wealth of history, art and architectural beauty.
Details
- Address:
- Westminster Abbey
- SW1P 3PA
- Transport:
- Westminster Underground station