Westminster Abbey, London — Best Activities & Things to Do (2025)
Step into over 1,000 years of history at Westminster Abbey. See Poets’ Corner, the Henry VII Lady Chapel, cloisters and the Chapter House, and time your day for a moving choral Evensong. Use this guide to pick tickets, tours and nearby sights—quick, clear and up to date.
Top Experiences Inside Westminster Abbey
Nave, High Altar & Aisles
Walk the central nave where monarchs and national figures are commemorated; pause at the High Altar and the Unknown Warrior.
Poets’ Corner
Find memorials to Chaucer, Dickens, Austen, the Brontës and many more—an essential stop for literature lovers.
Henry VII Lady Chapel
Marvel at the fan-vaulted ceiling, Tudor heraldry and the resting place of monarchs and the Unknown Warrior’s roll of honour.
Coronation Chair (viewing)
Glance the historic chair used in coronations since 1308 (viewing locations vary; protective screens may apply).
Cloisters & Chapter House
Stroll peaceful medieval cloisters and see vivid 13th-century wall paintings in the Chapter House.
Choral Evensong
Attend a free sung service most evenings (no sightseeing during services; arrive early for seats).
Things to Do Around the Abbey
Big Ben & Parliament
Photograph the Elizabeth Tower, then join a guided Parliament tour when in session or on select days.
Churchill War Rooms
Explore the preserved underground HQ where WWII strategy was directed—5–8 minutes’ walk from the Abbey.
Westminster Bridge & London Eye
Cross the Thames for skyline views and a ride on the Eye for aerial photos of Westminster.
St James’s Park
Relax by the lake and watch pelicans; a scenic link to Buckingham Palace along The Mall.
Buckingham Palace
Pair your Abbey visit with the Changing of the Guard or indoor venues like the Royal Mews and King’s Gallery (seasonal rooms vary).
Jewel Tower & Victoria Tower Gardens
See a rare medieval survivor of the old Palace of Westminster and riverside green space nearby.
Which Westminster Abbey Ticket Should You Choose?
Standard Entrance Ticket
Timed entry for a self-guided visit to the Abbey, cloisters and Chapter House. Audio guides typically available.
Guided Abbey Tour
See key chapels and memorials with a specialist guide; great context for art, architecture and coronations.
Skip-the-Line Guided
Priority entry plus a guided route that maximizes time on busy days.
Abbey + Big Ben + Buckingham
Cover Westminster highlights in one plan—ideal if you’re short on time.
Parliament & Abbey
Go inside both the Abbey and the Houses of Parliament with an expert guide.
Kid-Friendly Option
Interactive stories and scavenger-style stops keep younger visitors engaged.
Good to know: Sightseeing is paused during services. Photography is generally not permitted inside the Abbey church (allowed in cloisters/Chapter House—check signs). Mobile e-tickets are accepted; many tours allow free cancellation up to 24 hours—confirm on your product page.
Food & Drink Near Westminster Abbey
Abbey Café & Nearby Coffee
Refuel with pastries and light bites; independent roasters line Victoria Street and Parliament Street.
Classic Pubs
Historic Westminster pubs serve British staples and cask ales—great for a relaxed lunch after your visit.
Picnics in the Parks
Pick up sandwiches and enjoy St James’s Park or Victoria Tower Gardens on sunny days.
Afternoon Tea
Book a traditional tea at nearby hotels or cafés for a quintessential London treat.
Quick Visitor Tips
Best Time
Morning slots on weekdays are calmer. Arrive a little early to clear security smoothly.
Visit Duration
Plan 90–120 minutes inside; add time for Evensong or the Jubilee Galleries (paid add-on on site).
Photography
No photography inside the Abbey church; usually okay in cloisters and Chapter House—follow posted rules.
Accessibility
Step-free routes and lifts are available; staff can assist. Check tour pages for specifics and meeting points.
Bags & Security
Airport-style screening; no large luggage. Travel light for faster entry.
Transport
Closest stations: Westminster (Jubilee/Circle/District) and St James’s Park (Circle/District).
Ready to Explore Westminster Abbey?
Choose self-guided or guided entry, add a Parliament combo, and plan time for cloisters and Evensong for a complete Westminster day.
