Over 40 royal coronations, funerals, weddings, and a whole lot more have gone down right here. This place has been the backdrop to some of the biggest moments in the country’s past, and trust me, you can feel it the moment you step through those doors. So, is a tour of Westminster Abbey worth it? Hell yes. If you want to soak in centuries of history, see where legends were made, and get a taste of England’s royal soul, this is where you need to be. Don’t miss out.
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What is Westminster Abbey?
Alright, let’s set the record straight. According to tradition, the first church on this spot was consecrated in 616 by the first Bishop of London. But I’m not here to give you history lessons – I’m an archaeologist.
And if we’re talking archaeology, the real first church on this site was the Abbey itself, founded by the Benedictines in the 10th century, right where fishermen once witnessed an apparition of St. Peter.
Now, fast forward to the 11th century. Edward the Confessor, right before the Norman invasion in 1066, commissioned the Abbey. A year later, the guy was declared a saint, and then, bam – miracles started popping up around his tomb. The Abbey quickly became a pilgrimage hotspot, and ever since King Harold, nearly every English monarch has been crowned here.
The Abbey as we know it today was consecrated in 1269, and the place has been evolving ever since, with major additions rolling in through the mid-1700s. But here’s the kicker: there are over 3,000 people buried here – not just kings and queens, but poets, scientists, philosophers, and some of the greatest minds in history.
And let’s talk architecture. The Abbey is a stunning example of the ‘English Style,’ and the Lady Chapel? Hands down one of the most beautiful in all of England, originally built to house the remains of King Henry VI.
So, is a visit to Westminster Abbey worth it? Absolutely. It’s not just a building – it’s England’s soul, packed with history, art, and stories. And trust me, a tour will make sure you don’t miss a single piece of the action in this living, breathing corner of the past.
Not ready to book a tour? Check out our Free Guide to Westminster Abbey
Is a Tour of the Westminster Abbey Worth it?
Short Answer: Yes, a tour is worth it. Check out our free guide to the Best Tours of Westminster Abbey.
So why is a tour worth it?
Westminster Abbey is a sentinel that has stood silent and strong throughout the often tumultuous years of English history. With over 1,000 years of history, getting lost in the Abbey can be easy. Both literally and figuratively. You want to avoid coming all the way to London to explore one of the gems of English history only to miss something key.
Well, with an expert local guide with encyclopedic-like knowledge of Westminster, you don’t have to worry. Every major event and every juicy detail will be spilled for your enjoyment.
Not only that, but skip-the-line tickets will mean you don’t waste valuable time standing outside in the English rain.
Skip-the-Line Tickets
There are two types of tourists: Those who wait in line and those who don’t.
Some 1.5 million visitors pass through Westminster Abbey each year. In high season, tickets sell out in advance, but with tours, that is all taken care of for you. This eliminates the confusion outside, and you don’t want to be left standing in line in the typical English rain.
A guide with skip-the-line tickets can make this a smooth and quick process.
Small Group Tour
With over 100 years of history, getting lost in Westminster Abbey is easy. A good tour guide is a great storyteller, and the Abbey has played host to some of the greatest stories in English history. From coronations, to Royal burials and even murder, Westminster Abbey has seen it all.
Private Tours
If you enjoy seeing historical gems at a pace dictated for you, or you love to ask questions, then our private tours are perfect. Our expert guides will tailor an incredible experience for you, providing an unforgettable experience for your group.
Not ready to book a tour? Check out our How to Visit Westminster Abbey
If Tours of Westminster Abbey are Worth it Which is Best for You?
We have options for tours of Westminster Abbey, ranging from half day tours, to fill days tours. It all depends on your budget, time restrains and style. Check out the Best Tours to Take of Westminster Abbey and why
London Walking Tour of Westminster and Changing of the Guar (Group or Private)
Want an in-depth Westminster Abbey tour without waiting in line? Need to know the perfect place to stand for the Changing of the Guards? This London walking tour has got you covered!
Your tour begins in Parliament Square, just a short walk from Westminster Abbey. Together, you will explore one of the most important sites in English history. The site of 40 royal coronations and funerals. And the resting place of some of Britain’s most significant literary figures, such as Charles Dickens, Rudyard Kipling, and more.
If that isn’t enough, you’ll take a stroll through St James’s Park, the former hunting lodge of Henry VIII, on your way to the Mall and Buckingham Palace to witness the Changing of the Guard.
A perfect way to get an overview of some of London’s most important sites.
Not ready to book a tour? Check out our How to Visit Westminster Abbey
London in a Day – Westminster Abbey and Tower of London Combo Tour (7 hours)
Want to see London’s most iconic attractions in just one day? This action-packed London-in-a-day tour makes the most of your time in this historic city.
You’ll have time to explore the Tower of London, Westminster, Buckingham Palace, and more, all with a local expert guide.
This in-depth tour lets you skip the line to see London’s best sites without the long wait, and you’ll even get to take a boat ride along the River Thames. A perfect way to see many of London’s highlights if your time in the city is limited.
Not ready to book a tour? Check out our How to Visit Westminster Abbey
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