Westminster Abbey

Westminster Abbey

For £2, you can take an elevator to the top of the 83-meter-high bell tower (Campanile Bell) for a breathtaking panoramic view of London.

The church is built in the Gothic style, with several pointed spires decorated with stained glass standing side by side, creating a uniquely charming sight. In the center of the church, there is also a crowded graveyard where many great figures are buried. Due to the large number of burials, coffins had to be placed upright underground. Eventually, when there was no more space, the remains of these great figures began to be moved to St. Paul’s Cathedral.

The high-backed chair in front of the altar was used by kings and queens during their coronation ceremonies. It is said to be an antique that has been in use for 700 years. Beneath the seat of the chair lies a large stone known as the Stone of Destiny (Scone), which was seized by Edward I in the 13th century. Originally, it was used for the coronation of Scottish kings. It is said that some Scots still campaign for the return of this stone. In the innermost Henry VII Chapel, the tombs of the tragic Queen Mary, as well as the young Edward V and his brother who were murdered in the Tower of London, are placed side by side.

The name Westminster originally means "Western Church." The church got its name because it is located in the western part of London, as it was 100 years ago. There has been a church on this site since the 8th century, but it wasn’t until Edward the Confessor built this church that the area became a distinguished district.

Just a few days after the completion of the church, Edward the Confessor passed away without an heir. While royal relatives were arguing over succession, William the Conqueror arrived from France and swiftly subdued and conquered England. But how could he prove to the public that he was the rightful successor of Edward? Ultimately, he decided to hold a grand coronation ceremony in the church built by Edward. Thus, in 1066, William was crowned King of England in this very place. Since then, a total of 40 monarchs have been crowned here. Transport: Take the Tube to Victoria Station, near the Houses of Parliament. Tickets/Opening Hours: Admission is free, but donations for maintenance are recommended.

Hall and cloister opening hours: 7:00–19:00. Nave opening hours: Monday to Friday 9:20–16:45, Saturday 9:20–16:45.

London, United Kingdom