A thousand years of history – Westminister Abbey travel tips and stories. Vacations ideas, cruises, spa and resorts

Known to millions throughout the world from televised coverage of coronations, royal weddings and funerals, the Abbey is in part of any trip to London. Kings, queens, statesmen, soldiers, poets, priests, heroes and villains – they all make up the rich historical tapestry which is at the heart of the Abbey’s heritage and sustains its worldwide reputation.

Located in the heart of London, opposite the houses of Parliament, the Abbey is a working church and an architectural masterpiece. Founded over a thousand years ago as a Benedictine monastery, and rebuilt by Edward the Confessor in 1065, the building we see today was begun by Henry III in the Gothic style in 1245.

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The mix of rich history and a tradition of worship continuing today, creates this unique place. The Abbey is the final resting place for monarchs including Edward I (called “Longshanks”), Henry III, Henry V and Henry VII who built a magnificent Lady Chapel here.

In one chapel is shared vault containing the bodies of Elizabeth I and her half-sister Mary I (“Bloody Mary”) and in another, the tomb of Mary Queen of Scots. Both chapels have echoes of the 16th century’s turbulent Tudors who played such an important part in the nation’s and the Abbey’s history. Great scientists, musicians and politicians are also remembered in the Abbey: Newton and Darwin, Handel and Purcell and Winston Churchill.

Opening times
Admission charges apply
Weekdays: 9.30am – 3.30pm
Wednesday: 9.30am – 6.00pm
Saturday: 9.30 am – 1.45pm
The Abbey closes one hour after the last admission. Always check for the latest times as the church may be closed.