tour westminster abbey

The 5 Best Westminster Abbey Tours [2024 Reviews]

In a place that’s dripping in history from every cobblestone and vine-covered building, there stands a breathtaking cathedral we know as Westminster Abbey. If these walls could talk, we’d hear stories covering centuries of dramas, war, love, and much more.

This breathing time capsule is one of the most captivating places in the world, and with these carefully curated tours you’ll get a backstage pass to the secrets and stories that make it so special.

The top tours of Westminster Abbey are much more than just sightseeing – you’ll have a local expert take you through an incredible journey to learn things you simply can’t in a history book. Let’s jump right in!

Best Westminster Abbey Guided Tours

Quick answer: the 5 best rated westminster abbey tours for 2024.

• London Guided Tour of Houses of Parliament & Westminster
• Private Tour London Highlights, entries Westminster Abbey, The Tower of London
• Westminster Abbey Tour & Big Ben Exterior
• Priority Access Tour of Westminster Abbey with London Eye Option
• Guided Tour of London Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, Buckingham

Westminster Abbey Tour Reviews

1. london guided tour of houses of parliament & westminster.

• Duration: 4 hours
• Departure: “Winston Churchill” statue, Parliament Square, Westminster, London
• Departure Time:  9:00 AM
• Includes: Entrance to Westminster Abbey and Houses of Parliament, fully-guided tour inside both, headsets, small groups

Even if you aren’t particularly interested in British history, I can’t recommend going on this tour enough. The London Guided Tour of Houses of Parliament & Westminster Tour  is fascinating, from the hallowed halls of the Abbey to the sacred ground where Royal Coronations have unfolded since 1066.

You may know it from the fairytale-like wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton, but it’s so much more than that. With various start times available, this tour is also very easy to fit in to any schedule and it starts off by venturing into the belly of the beast: The Houses of Parliament.

Now, I know what you’re thinking – “parliament, really?”, but trust me, this is no ordinary stroll. You’re ditching the soulless audioguide for a friendly Blue Badge tour guide who’s practically a walking encyclopedia of British democracy.

We’ll start in the Chamber of the House of Commons, where the folks with the power to make or break Britain gather and where you’ll learn about the important decisions that are made here.

Then, we’ll cruise on over to the chamber of the House of Lords, where the bluest bloodlines in the country used to sit back and make decisions that shaped a kingdom (and world, consequently).

Our tour guide did a great job explaining some of the most important events here, in a way that was not only very educational, but also very amusing.

Even though many of the rooms didn’t allow for us to take photos, his teachings and storytelling made such an impact that the memories will stay in our minds for a long time.

Overall, this is a tour that’s as entertaining as it is informative, leaving you with a whole new perspective on London and England, as a whole.

Tour Information & Booking

100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience, other experiences you may enjoy:, 2.  private tour london highlights, entries westminster abbey, the tower of london.

• Duration: 8 hours
• Departure:  Broad Sanctuary, London SW1
• Departure Time: 9:00 AM
• Includes: Private tour, Blue Badge guide, skips the long lines

This next tour is the most comprehensive of the bunch, so if you’re looking to dive deep into England’s history, you’re in good hands. From the most sophisticated royals to the most brutal tales of torture, this tour will take you on a whirlwind experience full of excitement.

The Private Tour London Highlights, Entries Westminster Abbey, The Tower of London adventure is perfect if it’s your first time in this incredible city.

Make your way to the Broad Sanctuary around 9:00 am and meet your guide, who will provide a briefing to the group of what to expect for the day. They did a great job at customizing the tour to fit our specific interests.

The first stop for the day is Trafalgar Square, where you’ll learn about the important protests here, see Nelsons Column, and more.

Stroll on over to Whitehall to see where the PM lives and works and see various war memorials before going to Westminster Abbey. Once there, you’ll learn all about the important events that have taken place at the beautiful church, including the centuries-old chair used for coronations.

The famous Buckingham Palace is up next, which was the Royal Residence of the Queen before her passing. Next is St. James Park, where you’ll learn even more about the Royal Family and get a chance to breathe some fresh air and soak in all of the experience, so far.

Parliament Square is one of my favorite London stops. You’ll be surrounded by views of Big Ben, Houses of Parliament, and will even get to ride either the double-decker red bus or tube through the glitzy financial district.

St. Paul’s Cathedral and the Tower of London are next, with plenty of crazy stories about both locations narrated to you before enjoying some delicious fish and chips in a local pub. Finally, take some photos at the Tower Bridge, where you’ll get to take a rest or continue venturing throughout the city.

3. Westminster Abbey Tour & Big Ben Exterior

• Duration: 2.5 hours
• Departure:  The Supreme Court, Parliament Sq, London
• Departure Time: 10:30 AM
• Includes: Entrance fees to Westminster Abbey, Blue Badge guides

Perhaps you’re looking to explore more of London, but don’t have the schedule available for a full-day tour. This next adventure is the perfect alternative, with plenty of start times available for you.

The Westminster Abbey Tour & Big Ben Exterior  has an expert guide to take you through some of the most interesting spots in the city!

If you’re traveling with children, I can’t recommend this tour enough. The guide was so captivating and entertaining, and the tour was just the right length of time that none of the smaller ones became impatient and actually had a lot of fun!

Start out by meeting your guide at the Supreme Court located in Parliament Square, where you’ll get to see the iconic Big Ben from the exterior. Learn all about Big Ben, like how it’s the world’s biggest 4-faced clock, and how even during WWII, the chimes continued to sound and the clock face wasn’t blacked out to keep a sense of normalcy.

It’s a prime example of Victorian Engineering, maintaining itself as one of the most iconic symbols of both London and the United Kingdom. Should you have any questions or comments, your guide is there to answer and expand on them for you.

Next up is the amazing Westminster Abbey, which is one of the most remarkable historical landmarks, with a rich past filled with a spectrum of emotions and events.

Royal coronations and weddings have taken place here, and you’ll even get to see the Coronation Chair dating back to 1300! Thanks to the small group size, everyone will have enough time to tour through while also getting some free time to explore at your own leisure.

4. Priority Access Tour of Westminster Abbey with London Eye Option

• Duration: Approximately 2 hours
• Departure:  Westminster Abbey Shop, 20 Dean’s Yard, London
• Includes: Priority access to Westminster Abbey, tour with live guide, max of 20 passengers, coffee and pastries, optional Fast Track London Eye ticket

This is another quick yet comprehensive London tour which I feel perfectly balances the ultra-popular tourist sights with the more “local” feel.

The Priority Access Tour of Westminster Abbey with London Eye Option  is a great activity to take on your own, with the entire family, or with your significant other. Even if your schedule is packed to the brim, you should be able to fit this one in easily.

Starting off meeting your guide at Westminster Abbey, you’ll head inside the living monument of kings and queens with your small group. The guide did a fantastic job at regaling us with tales from over a millennium of English history, from 40 coronations, and dazzling weddings.

There are many recent events that have taken place here, such as the recent coronation of Charles III, the marriage of William and Kate, and the state funeral of Queen Elizabeth II.

After the thrilling and educational tour of the Abbey, you’ll descend into the medieval Cellarium, where Benedictine monks once stored their provisions. Today, it’s a slightly more lighthearted locale: a restaurant that serves up tasty food and beverages.

Enjoy some complimentary coffee and pastries in this 14th-century spot through the cloister, while you chat about the events so far.

After the tour, you have the option of soaring sky-high on the iconic London Eye ferris wheel! If you aren’t scared of heights, I really recommend taking advantage of this opportunity as it offers some of the best views of the city out there. You’ll even get to avoid the queues with your included fast track ticket!

5. Guided Tour of London Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, Buckingham

• Departure:  Parliament Square, Parliament Sq, London
• Includes: Guided tour of Westminster Abbey and City of Westminster, 5-star licensed guide, skip-the-line to Westminster Abbey, walking tour of the city of Westminster, group tour max 20 people

Last but certainly not least, we have the Guided Tour of London Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, Buckingham experience. This 4-hour excursion is a great way to get out of the hotel and learn about the varied and dramatic history of this capital city.

Learn about the intricate and varied architecture, the British royal family, politicians, and other important figures and monuments from an expert guide.

The tours usually start out in the morning, so head out early to meet your guide at the Sir Winston Churchill Statue in Parliament Square before going inside the depths of the Westminster Abbey.

While you can’t typically take photos inside, this is an amazing experience with history and beauty at every turn. There’s certainly a ton to see here, but my personal favorites were the Coronation Chair, Poets’ Corner, and the Lady Chapel.

With convenient skip-the-line tickets, you don’t have to worry about waiting in a queue and can simply head right in. The stunning Gothic nave, royal chapels, and so much more awaits you!

The guide does a fantastic job at giving the group little gems of information that I’d never heard anywhere else, further enriching the experience for us.

Next up is the Palace of Westminster with the famous Big Ben clocktower, where you’ll learn about the history of the monument that’s made appearances in countless movies, TV shows, and other media.

Then, head on over to Buckingham Palace where you’ll get to see some of the most famous royal rooms and hear intriguing tales about various royals.

FAQs About Westminster Abbey Tours

What is westminster abbey.

Westminster Abbey is the most historic church in England. It is not only a church but there are celebrations and ceremonies for the British royal family. Westminster Abbey was built in the 960s as a Benedictine monastery and has been the site of every Royal coronation since 1066.

What will I see in Westminster Abbey?

The Nave , this is the main part of the church where you enter. You will see the grave of the Unknown Warrior, who represents all the soldiers who died in World War I. You will see the memorials of famous people like Winston Churchill, William Shakespeare and Martin Luther King Jr.

The Coronation Chair , is located in the nave. This is the chair that has been used for every royal coronation since 1308. You will also see the Stone of Scone which is a symbol of Scottish royalty under the seat of the chair.

The Poets’ Corner , which is located in the south transept. This is where many writers and poets are buried and commemorated, such as Geoffrey Chaucer, Charles Dickens, Jane Austen, and C.S. Lewis.

The Lady Chapel , which is in the eastern part of the church. Most people consider this the most beautiful part of Westminster Abbey with the fan-vaulted ceiling, carvings and stained glass windows.

The Royal Tombs , are in various chapels in the church. There are tombs of famous and influential monarchs like Edward the Confessor, Henry III, Henry V, Henry VII, Edward VI, Elizabeth of York and George II.

The Pyx Chamber , is located off the east cloister. This medieval vaulted room was used to store the royal treasury and the standard weights and measures. You will see some of the original chests and iron bars that were used to secure the valuables.

The Chapter House , is located in the east cloister. This circular room that was used for meetings by the monks and later by the Parliament. There are some of the oldest wall paintings in England that depict scenes from the Bible and the Apocalypse.

The Cloisters , which you can get to from the Dean’s Yard. These covered walkways surround the central courtyard are some of the oldest parts of the Abbey with many memorials and monuments.

The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Galleries , which are in the medieval triforium above the Nave. These new galleries opened in 2018 to celebrate Queen Elizabeth II’s 60 years as the Queen.

How long do I need to see Westminster Abbey?

You can see most of the Abbey in 1.5 to 2 hours. It really depends on if you want to see all of it and how long you linger in the various areas.

How much does it cost to see Westminster Abbey?

An adult ticket is $30 which allows you to see all of the main attractions of the Abbey, like the nave, the tombs, Poet’s Corner, the Lady Chapel, and the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Galleries.

Do I need a guided tour of Westminster Abbey?

While you do not need a guided tour, having a tour guide will provide you with more insights and insider information about the history of the Abbey. You will also be able to access to some areas that are not open to general visitors.

Tour Guides

The London Guided Tour of Houses of Parliament & Westminster is our Editors Choice for the best Westminster Abbey tour.

Robert Baker

Related articles, the 5 best stonehenge tours from london [2024 reviews], the 5 best wine tours from florence [2024 reviews], the 7 best vatican tours ⛪ [2024 reviews], the 5 best seine river dinner cruises [2024 reviews].

• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

How To Visit Westminster Abbey in 2024: Tickets, Hours, Tours, and More

Eddie Saint-Jean Last Updated: October 26, 2023

A trip to Westminster Abbey is a must on any trip to London for its long and illustrious history. To help you plan your trip, we’ve put together this guide on what to expect when you visit Westminster with a brief description of its fascinating history. Here’s everything you need to know about how to visit Westminster Abbey.

Pro Tip: Planning what to do on your trip to London? Bookmark this post in your browser so you can easily find it when you’re in the city. Check out our guide to London for more planning resources, our top London tours for a memorable trip, and how to see London in a day .

Visiting Westminster Abbey: What We’ll Cover

Westminster Abbey boasts 1,000 years of British history and is arguably the nation’s most historic place of worship. It has been the coronation place for the UK’s monarchs since 1066.

Many of the nation’s royals, prime ministers, and celebrated writers, actors, and scientists are buried or commemorated here. In this guide to visiting Westminster Abbey, here’s what we’ll cover:

• Opening hours and tickets
• How much time to budget for your visit
• What to see in the Abbey
• Guided tour options
• Fascinating facts and history
• Places to eat inside and nearby 

Westminster Abbey Opening Hours and Tickets

Westminster Abbey is open every day, but access to some spaces may be restricted if there are church services. Also, hours may be reduced accordingly.

Please note: Westminster Abbey will be closed to visitors from 25 April until 7 May 2023 to prepare for the King’s Coronation.

Opening Hours:

• Monday to Friday: 9:30 am – 3:30 pm
• Saturday: 9 am – 1 pm
• Sunday: Church Services 
• Seniors £24
• Students £24
• Child (6-17 years) £12
• Child (0-5) Free
• Families (1 adult, 1 child) £27

Address: 20 Deans Yd

Not ready to book a tour? Check out our  best Westminster Abbey tours to take and why .

How Long To Spend at Westminster Abbey

Short answer: 2 hours

If you include sit-downs and café breaks, it’ll take you the full two hours. Bear in mind, there are over 3,000 public figures buried in this sizeable church. Also, you have to factor in many more memorials honouring important figures from British history. Moreover, some hallways are lined on both sides with statues and tombs. Although not all are recognizable names, the craftsmanship of the lavish tombs will have you lingering longer than you’d expect.

Actually, a number of the less well-known tombs are so large and grand that you’ll find yourself drawn to them, expecting a historic figure to be buried there. Figuring it all out and identifying the historic Britons will take time, which is why seeing it with a guide is helpful.

Audio Guide

The audio guide, which is available for free on entry, will help you orientate yourself and learn about the Abbey’s history. At the same time, it will encourage you to spend more time in each section. If you are short on cash definitely take an audio guide, but we highly recommend a guided tour with an expert guide passionate about this historic site and British history.

There’s lots of seating close to the main entrance. Here you can take a break or even make notes if you’re doing research. Seating is found near the following Abbey hotspots: The Choir, The High Altar, and Poets Corner. There’s also seating in an area of the Abbey called The Nave. But it would be impractical to have seating in other areas because of how close they might be to these highly valued and, in some cases, fragile memorials.

Westminster Abbey Gardens

Another feature that might slow your visit is the beautiful Abbey gardens—but that’s not such a bad thing. It’s an ideal stop-off for some quiet reflection. Although not an essential part of the visit, many choose to check out this historic enclosed garden with views of the parliament buildings, fountain features, and a bronze statue of the Crucifixion. Interestingly, centuries ago, only monks were allowed here and grew fruit, vegetables, and healing herbs. 

Popular London Tours

Best Selling Tour

Legends and Lore Tour of the Tower of London

How can you explore London’s top attractions without getting overwhelmed? By joining this guided small group tour! With 1,000 years of history and acres of buildings, the Tower of London is easier to explore and understand with the help of your local guide. Best of all, you’ll even see the famous crown jewels and have a boat ride down the River Thames.

Top Selling Tour

London Walking Tour with Westminster Abbey and Changing of the Guard

This is the perfect tour for someone who wants to get to know the real Westminster Abbey. With skip-the-line entry, you get some quiet time in the nave of the abbey with your guide and small group before exploring the tombs of notable kings, queens, philosophers, and more. Depending on the day, you’ll even get to see the Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace.

Not ready to book a tour? Check out our article on the best London tours to take and why .

What To See in Westminster Abbey

Westminster Abbey, as you’ll see it today, has a history of around 750 years. There’s a lot to discover within its walls. Here is a concise list of the top things to see in the Abbey. For more about what to see inside with more detailed descriptions, check out our article on the top things to see in Westminster Abbey .

• The Grave of the Unknown Warrior
• Coronation Chair
• Poets Corner
• The Queen’s Window, by artist David Hockney
• The Quire Screen
• Tomb of Elizabeth I and Mary I
• Pyx Chamber
• Chapter House
• Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Galleries
• The Lady Chapel

Westminster Abbey Tour Options

When I first planned my visit to Westminster Abbey I thought, “Do I really need a tour of a church?” Then, a friend told me the structure has been used for 1,000 years to coronate kings and is where basically every important Brit that has ever lived is buried. I decided to go with a tour and I was absolutely buzzing afterward.

The guide walked us through English history and the monarchs while bringing the structure to life. It was one of the most memorable experiences of my life. Here are our most popular guided tours with Westminster Abbey for a memorable experience of this historic landmark.

London in a Day Tour with Westminster Abbey and Tower of London (7 hours)

Our top-selling London tour is a must-do when you’re traveling to the heart of the United Kingdom. Your local guides are highly qualified and can share an unreal amount of cool facts and stories about London’s iconic sites and history. Starting at Westminster Abbey, you’ll be amazed at just how much of London you can see on foot and on a Thames river cruise.

Your skip-the-line tickets help you maximize your time, and your guides know where the best spots to see the Changing of the Guard are found. Your final stop at the Tower of London brings London’s more grisly history to life. It’s the perfect place to end your busy day tour of London!

See tour itinerary, price, and description

London Walking Tour with Westminster Abbey and Changing of the Guard (3 hours)

Clients love our skip-the-line access to the famous Westminster Abbey where they can enjoy a few minutes of quiet time with their guide in the nave of the abbey before the public enters. There’s more to see at Westminster than you think, so having a knowledgeable guide to lead you through the Quire, Poet’s Corner, and more, is extremely helpful. And if the Changing of the Guard happens on the day of your tour, they’ll be sure to help you see it from several vantage points.

Facts and History of Westminster Abbey

• Since 1066, all Britain’s monarchs have been coronated here.
• The UK’s Queen Elizabeth II was coronated here in 1953. Over 8,000 guests attended.
• It has the oldest door in England, built in 1050.
• The Pyx is the oldest room in London and was built in 1070. Later, it became the royal treasury.
• Between 1245 and 1272, Henry III had his architects restructure the Abbey to what it looks like now. He favoured a French-Gothic style.
• Author Charles Dickens, scientists Sir Isaac Newton and Stephen Hawking, and actor Sir Laurence Olivier are among the prominent figures buried here.
• The Grave of the Unknown Warrior is the only grave that visitors are not allowed to walk on.
• The John the Baptist Chapel contains the tallest memorial.
• Oliver Cromwell was buried here, then dug up, and hung from Tyburn gallows in the London area, now known as Marble Arch.
• The Westminster area is named after the Abbey and not the other way round. A minster is a monastic church and this abbey was in the west—therefore, Westminster.

Places To Eat Inside and Nearby

At some stage, you’ll need a longer break and something to eat. At the furthest end of the Cloisters section of the Abbey, you’ll find Cellarium Café. There are a couple more options nearby. If you’re looking for more recommendations, check out our guide to the best restaurants near Westminster Abbey .

Inside The Abbey:

Cellarium Cafe and Terrace : ££ | Afternoon Tea —The furthest end of the Cloisters. In keeping with the architecture of the Abbey, it has ancient-looking oak doors but inside it is a modern space with a light, airy feel. There is a selection of loose-leaf teas, coffee, light lunches, and meals. Traditional English breakfast and snacks, light lunches, and main meals with a distinctly English touch. The Afternoon Tea with scones is a very ‘English’ option but alternatively, coffee, cappuccinos, lattes, and expressos. 

Outside The Abbey:

Westminster Abbey Kiosk: £ | Light Snacks —As you’d expect, they sell lighter snacks than those found in the Cellarium Cafe. Mainly, sandwiches, hotdogs, cakes, and waffles. Also a selection of loose-leaf teas, coffee, cappuccinos, lattes, and expressos. You’ll find it directly outside Westminster Abbey’s west doors on a small stretch of road called The Sanctuary. It’s easy to find, next door to the Westminster Abbey shop .

Café at Storey’s Gate: ££ | Overlooking St. James’s Park —It has a similar food selection as the Cellarium Café but with more of a green focus on health and sustainability. There’s also the added perk of a pleasant outdoor area overlooking St. James’s Park. The cafe building has historic links with King Charles II (1630-1685).

Where To Stay in London

Deciding where to stay at a great hotel in London can take some effort since it’s a massive city. Make your decision easier with our list of the best neighborhoods and hotels in London.

Reader Interactions

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

• Travel Guide
• In The Press

POLICY & TERMS

• Cancellation Policy
• Terms & Conditions
• Privacy Policy