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This was such a great activity for us during our trip to London. We did not do a tour and instead walked around at our own pace and I think that was honestly best for my personal group. We did also pay the extra 5 pounds to go up to the Queens Diamond Jubilee Gallery which was SO worth it, with so many more pieces of history and a stunning view from above of westminister abbey.
Westminster Abbey is a stunning building of Gothic architecture, most significant for being the coronation church for English and British Monarchs since 1066. It is also a popular location for many royal weddings and funeral. It's a quick walk from Big Ben and Buckingham Palace. Nice to stop by to see where history has been written while you're exploring this part of London.
If you don't buy the priority ticket for over £100 expect to wait 45 mins before you even enter. We got the 9:30am tickets and did not step into the Abby till 10:15am. Once inside it was back to back lines taking another 1.5 hours to see the Abby. Would I have gone if I knew? No! It was not an enjoyable at all.
Wow! One of the most impressive churches I've ever visited. The architecture, stained-glass windows, and historic tombs are absolutely breathtaking -- it truly feels like stepping back in time and into history. Since we didn't realize the Abbey closes to visitors at 3:30 pm, we ended up attending the mass service instead. It was a unique experience, though it came with very strict rules. Photography is not allowed during service, and the staff enforces this firmly. I only managed a couple of quick snapshots before a priest, in a stern voice, reminded several visitors to put their phones away. Even so, the greatness of Westminster Abbey makes it unforgettable -- a must-see when in London.
This was one of the Big Bus stops so I thought I'd check out this historical building. Unfortunately, I did not do my homework, you need a reservation to go inside this church. However, there's a QR code at the Abbey. Luckily, I was able to purchase one ticket for the next entry. Keep trying, it seems like tickets become available depending on demand. The ticket included an audio recorder which was very easy to follow. I'm glad I took my time to take in all of the history this building has to offer. If you have time, I would recommend this tour.
One of the major attractions in the UK especially London is Westminster Abbey. It is jampacked with history and grandeur. There are numerous famous people in tomb tier along with most of the past kings and various important politicians such as Winston Churchill. There is an entrance fee and the place is generally jampacked so buy your tickets in advance.
Westminster Abbey is definitely one of the UK's most impressive churches. It's here that key events in the life of the British Royal Family take place including Royal Weddings (17 to date) and Coronations (the majority of British rulers since 1066!). This medieval church, graced by many royal weddings and coronations, offers a magnificent peek at London's far-reaching history We were here at 930 AM, that too on Monday but it was already crowded...!! so not sure when to visit to beat the rush hour. Westminster Abbey is also one of the most desirable burial sites in the UK, with countless famous figures from British history buried here, including Isaac Newton, Charles Darwin, Chaucer, and multiple British royals, prime ministers, and more. Even if you're not interested in the Royal family or the buried dead though, you can't help but be impressed by this gorgeous gothic-style building. Westminster Abbey stands on a site that's been associated with Christianity since the early 7th century. Officially known as the Collegiate Church of St. Peter in Westminster, Westminster Abbey was founded by Edward the Confessor in 1065 as his place of interment. This masterpiece of Gothic architecture not only has the highest Gothic nave in England (102 feet), it's also one of London's most popular tourist attractions, drawing well over a million visitors each year. Tip: do a little research ahead of time to avoid missing your personal must-sees. For instance, if you're a bibliophile, consider a visit to the Poets' Corner. This is the final resting place of famed authors Geoffrey Chaucer, Charles Dickens, and Rudyard Kipling, among others. If you're fascinated by all the intrigue surrounding British royalty, you might like to visit the shared tomb of enemies and half sisters Elizabeth I
We were in London for 3 nights and went to a service in Westminster Abbey. We got there about an hour early and only 1 guy ahead of us but when let in hoards of people cut there way ahead of us. We found it wasn't a single file line, it might be in a bucket this is lotion, so we missed out by trying to be polite. We did get inside but the first people should have been in the area across from the choir. There was visiting choir from Scotland. The singing and message were very odd. Choir used tuning fork and sounded very monitored. Service was 45 minutes and we stood in line for an hour. Several didnt get in ... so arrive early. They said no pics till after the service but after they rush everyone out and locked the gate. Not sure if the tours were better for allowing pics. But it was stunningly beautiful inside and out. The building was more impressive than the service and got to see it at no cost. Im sure the tour has a fee.
Probably the most interesting stop we made in London. Definitely worth paying the extra £5 for a verger tour; Benjamin was our verger and I cannot sing his praises enough!! If we return to Westminster Abbey for a tour I will likely try to make sure we can get on a tour again with Benjamin. As a history buff, seeing the burial sites of all these historical figures I'd read about for years was incredibly fascinating. Getting the extra bits of info from the verger was the icing on the cake of this tour.
We went in roughly around 10am. There were a lot of people near the exit and gift shop area but it was basically a walk in at the entrance. Inside, there were quite a bit of people and for the majority the flow was good. Admission cost was a bit high however it is one of the attractions covered in the London Pass. It is quite beautiful outside and in. The architecture, the stained glass windows, and the history within the walls is all quite remarkable.
This place is AMAZING!!! So much to see that you can go back again and again and still can't take it all in. From the moment you walk in until the moment you leave. History is in every corner, walk, ceiling, underground, grounds and surroundings! It's breathtaking to be sure. Don't miss out on the headset tour and skip the gift shop! Set aside enough time to allow yourself some stillness while there to soak in all of the history. It's truly magnificent and quite frankly, overwhelming.
Westminster Abbey is absolutely gorgeous and so rich with history. It was incredible to walk around the tombs, look at the windows and architecture, and walk the grounds. It was especially cool seeing the coronation chair. I could spend at least a couple hours in here. They also have a nice gift shop. We did not attend mass, but you can if you'd like. This is truly a must see if you're in London. The tickets were we worth it.
Truly beautiful, iconic and with so much history here, it's a must visit when in London. The Abbey is just unbelievable from the outside to every detail inside and must be seen to appreciate. We arrived mid day and had previously booked tickets online, the line to get in was short and moved quickly. It did not seem to matter if you purchased tickets on line or at the door, everyone is in the same line. Inside the church is breathtaking, and you must take your time, read all the plaques, take photos and light a candle for those we no longer have with us. You are given a audio set upon entrance, it's collected at the exit and the church is quite large and takes a few hours to truly see and enjoy. There are many benches throughout to have a seat and relax,if needed. Before making plans to visit, check the website as this is a working church. Photography is allowed inside as long as there is no flash. Restrooms are located near the courtyard along with a cafe and gift shop. Westminster Abby is located in a perfect area for many sights to been seen in one day. The tube is nearby, plenty of taxis if needed, a few bus stops outside, and just around the corner you have Big Ben and the London Eye. Enjoy! read more
3 years ago
It is an amazing structure and uniquely historical. However, the size of the crowd definitely impaired my ability to enjoy it even though I was one of the first in line that morning. Also, anyone having a London Pass is treated like a second class citizen. All pass holders are separated from ticket holders and put in the same line as those who don't have tickets and have to wait to show their pass to the person selling tickets. Fortunately, this only happened at Westminster and not any other attractions. read more
9 years ago
There are not many places in the world that you can literally walk through/on history as old at this place. I do not mean any disrespect by that as it was an honor to do so. I was encouraged to visit here months in advance by so many people that this was a must see for me before I even had a chance to plan out my days. It doesn't hurt that this place is located near so many other historic places worth seeing. As I neared the grounds I was able to take in how grand this place is. It is a lot to take in when you first look at it, it also takes a moment to wrap your head around how much has happened here and how many notable people have entered these grounds you are about to step foot in. Thanks to London Pass I was able to walk right in without further payment and I grabbed my map and guided tour. I attempted my best to not look like a tourist as I started my way through the halls. I have to say that you end up strolling slowly through here without knowing it. I attribute that to the smooth sounds of Jeremy Irons strumming in your ears. Definitely take the chance to listen to everything that you can through this as it is a very thorough and informational. I made my way through here and marveled at every turn I took. I was polite to allow for other people to make their way to areas and waited patiently to view certain, more notable areas. The one thing that caught my eye is how this building withstood attacks during wars. I was completely stunned by how instead of fixing a hole in the wall from a bombing they added glass. One thing I could say about this is that you don't have to follow the map. If you do they you are either going to irritate someone because of the speed you choose to use or you yourself are going to be irritated by this. You are able to take this tour at your leisure, as each stop is labeled for a corresponding recording. My next to last stop was to view the coronation throne. But then my last stop here before leaving was the gift shop. I browsed and bought a few items that I felt were reasonably priced and made my way out. One thing that disappointed me, but not star deduction worthy, was the fact that you are not allowed to take photographs. I am probably echoing many people here with that statement. I am viewing it as a ploy to get visitors to buy the souvenir guide. Basically a site approved photo book. read more
7 years ago
Westminster Abbey was one of the most awe inspiring experiences of my life. I'm not sure what I was expecting, since I'll admit I didn't actually do much research as to what is going on in there but it was truly amazing. It costs £23 to do a self guided audio tour of the abbey. While the audio tour is excellent at pointing out the highlights, the real fun is just wandering around on your own, reading some of the countless epitaphs. They offer a unique and incredible glimpse into a thousand years of English history. Despite all of this historical significance it is still very much a working church. We were lucky enough to be visiting while mass was being said which was a really nice experience. This is one tourist experience that should not be missed on any London trip. read more
I would have easily given this wonderful building a 5 stay review except for the fact that you have to pay to enter, and no pictures are allowed inside. In Rome, there is no fee to enter buildings, and pictures are ok. It just caught me off guard. That being the case, what a beautiful and historic building. It is a must see, just don't go on Sunday since it is closed. We saw the exterior then, and can back to go inside on Monday. My rating system consists of a 3-star being exactly what you expected and neither good nor bad. A 4 means something was extra special and a 5 means you were blown away. A 2 star rating was disappointing and a 1-star rating is terrible read more
Yes, this another famous monument and yes, it's as beautiful as you might imagine. It's a structure of marvel, of awe, and astonishing majesty. Only in jolly good London will you see something like this. Well, actually that's not true, as there are so many other countries that offer something similar, but who cares! It's a beauty! I'm glad I was able to visit and I'm falling in love with London piece by piece. There is still so much more to see and I hope I might be able to come here again at some point. If you're coming to visit London, you need to check this place out. read more
4 years ago
4 years ago
I went years ago and didn't go inside. This visit I went inside and I was not disappointed. The aesthetics, the history, it all makes the entrance fee worth while. They do a great job of using equipment to help you guide yourself through the site and it makes it easier not to miss anything important. read more
I can't believe that I did not visit the Westminster Abbey until this visit. The Abbey has within it buried some of the greatest figures in history---Issac Newton, Charles Darwin, James Maxwell, Paul Dirac, William Shakespeare, Green, Keats... as well as a number of British military leaders, and of course many of the royal family of the past (the recent royals are mainly buried in Windsor castle). The Abbey itself is quite beautiful. Paradoxically, it is both compact and grand at the same time. As you walk it's halls, it is difficult to escape the sense of history that permeates the place (or at least as far back as British history goes ). We came here for "Wednesday lates", which was half price and easy to get into, but the downside was that that the audio guide wasn't available. If I had known that in advance, I'd have probably tried to make it during regular Abbey hours. Nonetheless, the folks around were quite friendly and willing to answer any questions we had. Another must see attraction in London. read more
An impressive mixture of architectural styles, Westminster Abbey is considered the finest example of Early English Gothic. It's not merely a beautiful place of worship - the Abbey is still a working church and the stage on which history unfolds. This is the United Kingdom's most famous and most important place of worship. The country's greatest have been buried here, including 17 monarchs from King Henry III (died 1272) to King George II (1760). Its more like a luxurious cemetery, lol... just kidding . Don't forget to take a peek to the little beautiful St. Margaret's Church. You will see the glorious window made for King Henry VIII and Catherine of Aragon in 1520. I spent 3 hours inside going through everything, so plan ahead your visit so you can take your time exploring all the nooks and crannies. Prepare to visit first thing in the morning as the place get very crowded late morning-noon. The audio tour was excellent and gave lots of pertinent educational information. A new addition to this "The Abbey" itself is an amazing building, the ceilings and vaulted roofs are breathtaking! After the audio tour I wandered the rest of the abbey which was open, the gardens and the southern ambulatory things. It was a very enjoyable experience. The cafe served a passable cream tea with home made scones although there may be a wait for the tables to be cleared at busier times. My favorite part was The Abbey. An important observation is that at the end you can see Charles Darwin, Isaac Newton and Stephen Hawkings are all buried inside the Abbey, a sort of final "up yours to science" from religion! Cons: admission price is 16 pounds at the entrance is a bit expensive, and extra charge to "the abbey" for $5 pounds. I recommend getting a London pass that includes this or Heritage London Package. No photos allowed inside....except that I am too bad at following rules and manage taking some few pics... didn't fly 1500 miles to just keep it all in my head ... other than that it is a magnificent church! read more
4 years ago
Beautiful as to be expected. I recommend looking up - the ceilings are all spectacular. They give you headphones to listen to audio during the tour. It's a bit confusing and you may miss things if you don't read the guide. It's also very crowded but that's also no surprise. read more
9 years ago
This is a must stop in London. It cost £22 to enter, kind of on the steep side as far as attractions go. Once inside we got the headphone tour which was very good and informative. There is so much history here, it's amazing! There was a short line out front by 0945. It is definitely worth a stop by! read more
3 years ago
This place was so amazing and inspiring! Such an incredible feeling to be walking amongst so much history and the resting places of so many significant people (such as Stephen Hawking, Isaac Newton, QEI, Mary Queen of Scots, King Henry V, Lord Byron, and so many others)!! We also had made it just in time to see the Queen's Diamond Jubilee exhibit which was surprisingly fascinating and held one of the few original copies of the Magna Carta, as well as many funeral effigies of various monarchs throughout history! The line was huge when we walked up...took about an hour to get inside, but so worth it! There doesn't seem to be any option to buy in advance to avoid lines...even if you buy in advance it seems you have to wait (not sure if this was just bc of the early closure due to holiday hours). It includes a free audio guide which was also excellent. read more
3 years ago
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7 years ago
There's over 200 reviews already...I'll just say this is the most expensive church in the world to visit and not worth the full price £20...but before you visit... BUY THE LONDON PASS!!!!! I only bought the 1 Day pass for £49($77ish), not cheap, but worth it! Get it at the Tourist Information desk at the airport or the booth near Leicester Square The CHUN P Power-Cardio-One Day Tour of London: £20 10am-11am Westminster Abbey £18 11:15am-12:15pm Churchill War Rooms...5 minute walk away from Westminster £18 Thames River Cruise...5 minute walk to the dock, grab a quick take away lunch at Tesco, which will be on your left. Eat on the boat while trying to admire the Thames's not-so-great scenery... £24.50 1:30-3:30 Tower of London...have a coffee or tea break afterwards. £9 4:00pm-Close Tower Bridge...this doesn't take long to visit, maybe 30-45 minutes. £89.50 TOTAL Total Savings £89.50 - £49 = £40.50($62ish) That's what makes this attraction worth the money at almost half off the price. If you have more time and for a bit more £££££ you could buy the 2 or 3 day pass to see Windsor Castle(£19.20) and Kensington Palace(£17.50) for more savings. read more
3 years ago
Like many structures and landmarks in central London, it was another great spot for a photo opportunity. We didn't step into the church, but I could imagine how visually stunning it was probably was by just looking at the outside. With all that said, it was not only a great photo op. because of its beautiful Gothic-type architectural exterior, but also because of its close proximity to many stunning surroundings, including Big Ben, the Palace of Westminster, Westminster Bridge, River Thames and the London Eye! With so much to see in the area, we didn't spend much time outside of Westminster Abbey and snapped some photos of the church and with the church. If you're not going to step into the church, I would say you would probably only need 10 minutes here at the maximum to take in the sight with your eyes and through your camera lens. read more
11 years ago
The building exterior was under construction/renovation. Didn't tour the interior. There was long line waiting. The building/architecture is beautiful. The detail of the work is very impressive!! I heard no picture is allowed inside. And purchase your ticket in advance to avoid waiting in line to get the tickets. There are many things to see in that area so prepared at least whole day there. Please wear comfortable shoes because lots of walking in London. read more
Unlike the hidden gem that is Westminster Cathedral, Westminster Abbey is well known as one of London's pieces of classic architecture. Nearly as famous as Big Ben just down the street, the Abbey is better known for its performance in the weddings of England's monarchy including (then) Princess Elizabeth, Prince Charles and Prince William. It's also the burial place for a number of famous rulers and some 20th Century martyrs. Entrance is not free, but it's well worth it to visit this extraordinary and historic building. It does include an audio tour - let me know if you recognize the voice. Consider upgrading for the verger-led tour! read more
There is no way possible to could miss this church. It is absolutely gorgeous! During our Sandeman's walking tour of London, I learned that usually royalty have their weddings here. For anyone old enough to remember Princess Di's wedding shown on tv, I kept thinking "This cannot be that church." True enough, the guide went on to explain that Princess Di chose a different church for the wedding because she wanted outside steps to show off her wedding gown train! Smart girl! Unfortunately, we did not have time to stand in line to see the interior, but I still loved seeing this monstrous church! read more
5 years ago
9 years ago
£20 to enter a church (not even a service)? Seems more like a business to me. Regardless, Westminister Abbey has to be on your list of sights to see in London. It's right in the core, next to Big Ben. When I arrived, there was church bells ringing for 10 minutes? Security is tight, they check bags. No pics inside. There's impressive history and architecture. From the soaring ceiilngs, to the detail and intricacy on the walls and floors. There's a decent gift shop attached. Mostly the same things you can buy elsewhere. read more
2 years ago
10 years ago
Located in the central section of London, right next to Parliament and Elizabeth Tower (home to Big Ben the bell), Westminster Abbey is one of those places you have to visit at least once if you visit London, to get a taste of the history this city has been built on. And if you're like me, you'll be back after that 1st visit, just to take it all in again! "Living history" is a great term for the Abbey (actually it's a great term for a lot of London). It's founding date goes back to 960, and it's particularly famous for being a site of coronation ceremonies, as well as the burial site for many of Britain's most notable monarchs. You'll find Poets' Corner (memorials and graves to famous literary figures throughout history) and the touching Tomb of the Unknown Warrior here as well. All of that history and more, on top of its Gothic design, makes the Abbey quite the site to enjoy. Due to its lengthy history and the sheer number of tombs and architectural details you'll be able to explore while here, this is one place where an audio tour is definitely going to be helpful; it'll ensure that you can go through the place at your own pace and will allow you to focus on the things you care about the most without any time constraints. The Abbey admittedly charges an admission fee, but it's worth it in my opinion - I'm happy to help keep this beautiful piece of history going. That said, if you want to get a smaller taste of the Abbey while sticking to a budget, take a look at their schedule to see if they have any shows or services you may want to attend. I actually got to enjoy a gorgeous organ recital on my last day here - not what I would associate with this location at all, but enjoyable and special for sure! read more
11 years ago
My goodness, this place is impressive! Yes, it costs a fee to get in, but that fee includes an excellent audio guide and access to as many places as are open at that time. Plus - come on, people. The abbey doesn't get any funding from anyone but the visitors (which I find confusing), so all the restoration and upkeep is paid for by you! The only thing that made me sad is that pictures are not allowed within the Abbey. I understand it, I think, but it would have been nice to be able to have pictures of some of the plaques within Poet's Corner, or some of the awesome stained-glass windows dotting the walls. I gladly would have paid a "photo pass" fee to have that privilege. We were both immediately struck not only by the architecture - soaring ceilings, marble and granite and gilt covering almost everything, intricate carvings everywhere you looked - but by the history as well. Yes, it's a theme that I keep coming back to - so much history! Tombs for kings and queens, memorials for poets and artists and musicians, paintings that were created 700 years ago, floors that are just as old, stain glass windows that partially survived the years and WWII, it just didn't end. Every nook held a piece of London's history. Every room had a story. And most things were displayed in an easy-to-understand-and-follow kind of way. The Abbey does tend to get crowded, so I would recommend going early, if at all possible. We got there about half an hour after they opened their doors, and it was just starting to get stifling. By the time we left, the crowd index was insanely high. I love that you're allowed to walk at your pace, and to take your time in viewing all the history surrounding you. It's amazing to me the things they have on display - that they were recovered, that they're in such fine condition, that they leave them within touching distance of some of the more oblivious tourists... I'd say it took us about two and a half hours to get through everything, what with the audio tour and fighting the crowds. There were a few things closed that day - the gardens and the little cloister, to be specific - but there's still plenty to see. read more
3 years ago
16 years ago
Ooooh famous dead people... 1. Must see church in London. 15 pounds is kinda steep but I think it's worth it to go inside a gorgeous church full of history. It's mind boggling to think I was in this church where people like Queen Elizabeth, Charles Dickens, Jane Austen, and Darwin (just to name a few) are buried. 2. 2 stars for not allowing pictures to be taken inside. This is like sacrilegious to picture taking whores like myself. Also, they take student IDs but it has to have an expiration date on it. S.O.L. for people ( like my brother) who are actually current students but unfortunately their IDs do not have expiration dates on it. Thus no discount. Lame. 3. I'm not going into what you'll see in the inside since you should see the beauty for yourself :-) I recommend the free audio tour that comes with your entrance fee. Pretty interesting to hear the history behind the cathedral doors. read more
2 years ago
13 years ago
Westminster Abbey is a beautiful, historical church with the most incredible architecture. During our short visit to London I knew that we were arriving too late on Saturday afternoon to visit the church and that the church was closed on Sunday for services. Luckily, I read in my Rick Steves Travel Guide that there is a free 30 minute organ performance every Sunday at 5:45pm that is open to the public. We weren't able to see as much of the church as I would have liked, but we were able to sit in the nave of the church and admire the pretty stained glass and altar as we listened to the most amazing organ performance. Did I mention the entry was free?!?! By attending the organ performance we were able to avoid the hefty 18 pounds entry fee. As much as I would have loved to have seen the gardens and museum at Westminster Abbey I felt that the organ performance was very special. See Westminster's music schedule: http://www.westminster-abbey.org/music read more
7 years ago
This is wow! Westminster Abbey is a must visit place when visiting London, you will get to meet the Kings and queens of the kingdom, and it is also educational for the next generation to understand the history of England. Only drawback I would say is they charge for visiting this site. Isn't this also been maintain by the government just like library? read more
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