Westminster Abbey

Westminster Abbey is steeped in more than a thousand years of history. Benedictine monks first came to this site in the middle of the tenth century. The present church is one of the most important Gothic buildings in the country. The Abbey has been the coronation church since 1066 and is the final resting place of seventeen monarchs.

There are various kinds of tours available for visitors to Westminster Abbey:

Vergers led tours - Verger-led tours of the Abbey are available, in English, for individuals or family groups only. They start at the North Door, last for approximately 90 minutes and include a tour of the Shrine, the Royal Tombs, Poets' Corner, the Cloisters and the Nave. It is advisable to check availability of times and dates.

Audio guides - Audio-guides are free with individual entry tickets at the North Door. They are useful for visitors who prefer to take their own time and pace to visit the Abbey but who appreciate some extra guidance on the history and meaning of what they see. This tour takes around one hour.

Guided tours - Guided Tours can be accommodated during normal opening hours, provided the group does not exceed 26 and is always accompanied by a Blue Badge Guide. It is advisable to check dates and times as there are often special services in the Abbey which may mean tour details are changed.

Parish Prayer pilgrimages - The Abbey is pleased to receive requests from Parish groups in the UK to visit on Wednesday evenings after we have closed for general visiting.

Contact details for the Abbey telephone: +44 (0) 20 7222 5152 fax: +44 (0) 20 7233 2072 email: [email protected].

Westminster Abbey is usually open to visitors from Monday to Saturday throughout the year. On Sundays and religious holidays such as Easter and Christmas, the Abbey is open for worship only. All are welcome to services.

As a working church Westminster Abbey has daily services seven days a week. There are also special services for Christmas, Easter and other major Christian occasions. The Abbey also hosts exhibitions, concerts and events.

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Regular weekday services:

•    07.30 Morning Prayer
•    08.00 Holy Communion
•    12.30 Holy Communion
•    17.00 Evensong

Regular Saturday services:

•    08.00 Holy Communion
•    9.00 Morning Prayer
•    17.00 Evensong

Regular Sunday services:

•    08.00 Holy Communion
•    10.00 Matins
•    11.15 Sung Eucharist
•    15.00 Evensong
•    17.45 Organ Recital
•    18.30 Evening Service

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