About Westminster Abbey
Edward the Confessor rebuilt a Benedictine abbey beside the Thames in the 11th century, and Henry III replaced it with the present Gothic church to honor Edward as a saint. Every coronation since 1066 has taken place here, most recently that of Charles III in 2023. The abbey is a Royal Peculiar, answerable directly to the sovereign rather than to a bishop.
The shrine of St. Edward still stands behind the high altar, the only medieval English saint's shrine with its body in place. Around it lie kings and queens, while Poets' Corner, scientists' memorials and the Grave of the Unknown Warrior make the abbey a national pantheon. Daily services continue amid the visitors.
What to see
- Shrine of St. Edward the Confessor
- Coronation Chair
- Lady Chapel of Henry VII with its fan vault
- Poets' Corner
- Grave of the Unknown Warrior
Visiting Westminster Abbey: practical guide
- Best time
- Weekday mornings year round
- Hours
- Usually Monday to Saturday 9:30 to 15:30 for visitors; Sunday for worship only
- Entry
- About 30 GBP; free for services
- Dress code
- Smart casual
- Nearest airport
- London Heathrow Airport (LHR), 24 km
Tips from experienced pilgrims
- Evensong is free and open to all
- Book online for a cheaper ticket
- The Queen's Diamond Jubilee Galleries need a separate timed ticket
Festivals and special days
- Feast of St. Edward (13 October)
- Remembrance Sunday
Etiquette for visitors
Guidance drawn from Christianity tradition. Always follow signs and local custodians.
- Cover shoulders and knees when entering churches, cathedrals and monasteries.
- Men usually remove hats indoors, while some Orthodox churches ask women to cover their hair.
- Avoid sightseeing in the main aisle during Mass or services.
- Check whether photography and flash are allowed before taking pictures.
- Keep your voice low and switch phones to silent.
- Only receive Communion if you understand and follow that church's rules.
Location map
Open in OpenStreetMap · Get directions
Frequently asked questions
Where is Westminster Abbey?
Westminster Abbey is in London, England, Greater London, United Kingdom, Europe. GPS coordinates: 51.4994, -0.1273. The nearest airport is London Heathrow Airport (LHR), 24 km.
What is the best time to visit Westminster Abbey?
Weekday mornings year round
Is there an entry fee for Westminster Abbey?
About 30 GBP; free for services Opening hours: Usually Monday to Saturday 9:30 to 15:30 for visitors; Sunday for worship only
What should I wear when visiting Westminster Abbey?
Smart casual
Which religion is Westminster Abbey sacred to?
Westminster Abbey is sacred to Christianity. Active place of worship. It is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
