Westminster Abbey
About Westminster Abbey
A magnificent Gothic church and UNESCO World Heritage Site that has been the coronation church of English and British monarchs since 1066, and the burial place of kings, poets and scientists.
History & Heritage
A church has stood on this site since the 10th century, but the present Gothic abbey was largely begun in 1245 under King Henry III, who rebuilt it in honour of Edward the Confessor. Since the coronation of William the Conqueror on Christmas Day 1066, virtually every English and British monarch has been crowned here, seated upon the ancient Coronation Chair that remains in the abbey to this day.
Westminster Abbey is far more than a coronation church — it is a national shrine. More than 3,300 people are buried or commemorated within, including 17 monarchs, and figures such as Isaac Newton, Charles Darwin, Charles Dickens and Stephen Hawking. Poets' Corner honours the nation's literary giants, and the abbey has hosted royal weddings including that of Prince William and Catherine Middleton in 2011.
What to Expect
Expect an overwhelming density of history and soaring Gothic architecture. Highlights include the intricate fan-vaulted Lady Chapel, the tombs of monarchs including Elizabeth I and Mary Queen of Scots, the memorials of Poets' Corner, and the Coronation Chair. The Queen's Diamond Jubilee Galleries, high in the medieval triforium, reveal treasures and views down into the abbey. An audio guide is included, and services are open to all.
Known For
Highlights
- Coronation Chair
- Poets' Corner
- Royal tombs
- The Cloisters
- Lady Chapel
- The Queen's Diamond Jubilee Galleries
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are monarchs still crowned at Westminster Abbey?
- Yes, Westminster Abbey has been the coronation church since 1066, and coronations continue to take place there, most recently that of King Charles III in 2023.
- Who is buried in Westminster Abbey?
- More than 3,300 people are buried or commemorated there, including 17 monarchs and figures such as Isaac Newton, Charles Darwin, Charles Dickens and Stephen Hawking. Poets' Corner honours many great writers.
- Is Westminster Abbey free to enter?
- There is an admission charge for sightseeing visits, which includes an audio guide. Entry is free for those attending a service of worship, such as evensong.
More London Landmarks
Big Ben & the Houses of Parliament
The iconic clock tower — officially the Elizabeth Tower — rising above the Palace of Westminster on the banks of the Thames, home to the UK Parliament and one of the most recognised silhouettes in the world.
Buckingham Palace
The London residence and administrative headquarters of the British monarch, famous for its balcony appearances, the Changing of the Guard ceremony and the opulent State Rooms opened to visitors each summer.
Trafalgar Square
London's grand civic square at the heart of the West End, dominated by Nelson's Column and its bronze lions, and framed by the National Gallery and the church of St Martin-in-the-Fields.