private tours 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. skip the line into houses of parliament & westminster abbey fully-guided tour.

• Duration: 4 hours
• Departure: “Winston Churchill” statue, Parliament Square, Westminster, London
• Departure Time:  9:00 AM & 1:30 PM
• 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 florence wine tours [2024 reviews], the 7 best vatican tours ⛪ [2024 reviews], the 5 best seine river dinner cruises [2024 reviews].

Westminster Abbey Private Guided Tour

To visit Westminster Abbey is to take a whirlwind ride through 1000 years of British history- the only way to skip-the-line for a private experience like no other.

Tour Highlights

• Take in 1000 years of British history and culture with your 100% private Blue-Badge guided tour.
• See the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Galleries, Henry VII, Lady Chapel, Coronation Chair, Poet’s Corner and so much more
• Read the impressive Gothic stonework like a book with the insights of an expert guide
• Engaging for all age groups
• Family friendly

Description

Dream of the last Anglo-Saxon king and a flagship of the Church of England, Westminster Abbey is a tour de force of 1000 years of both English and British history.

This spectacular Medieval gothic ‘royal peculiar’ has hosted every coronation from William the Conqueror to Elizabeth II and seventeen royal weddings , most recently that of William and Kate. It is also the burial place of many royals and notables including feuding Tudor siblings Elizabeth and Mary, writers such as Geoffrey Chaucer, Rudyard Kipling and Charles Dickens , scientists Isaac Newton, Stephen Hawking and Charles Darwin, abolitionists, actors and the tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

Marvel at the 700 year old coronation chair as you learn more of this most sacred and complex ceremony, admire the craft of 16th century stonework, the portraits of modern martyrs and the grand Henry VII Lady Chapel .

Ascend the 52ft to the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Galleries where, up with the flying buttresses and ornately carved gargoyles, you’ll discover a 13th century triforium. Hidden for centuries, the galleries now tell the secrets of the abbey.

Using a special entrance to skip the line, your private guide will give you an unparalleled 2 hour insight to this very British emblem and its place in the last 1000 years of our turbulent yet extraordinary history.

Places You’ll See

The Coronation Chair

Famous tombs and memorials

The Galleries

• Private Guided tour of Westminster Abbey
• Tickets and entry reservations to Westminster Abbey
• Tickets and entry to the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Galleries
• English Speaking local expert guide
• Food & drink
• Hotel pick-up & drop-off

Meeting point

Important information

• Please arrive 15 minutes before the start time on your voucher
• Please wear comfortable shoes and always carry water.
• No photography allowed inside Westminster Abbey
• The Abbey is a working church, therefore, it is subject to closures at short notice
• There is no large luggage allowed into Westminster Abbey

Customer Reviews

Total reviews: 0, avarage reviews: 4.3.

• January 30, 2023

The Important Stuff

Meeting Place

Meet your guide outside the Official Westminster Abbey Shop, situated at the base of the West Front of the Abbey ( Broad Sanctuary, Westminster, London SW1P 3JS) The guide will be showing Urban Saunters sign.

Things to know

Book with extra flexibility.

Choose new departure dates if your plans change.

Reach out to us anytime via online chat, phone or email.

Get credit for future trips if you need more time to decide.

Change to a different tour run by the same tour operator.

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Westminster Abbey Private Tour

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• Private tour for groups of up to 10
• Avoid long lines with pre-purchased tickets
• Perfect for children
• Fun quiz available
• Certified Blue Badge Guide

Our Westminster Abbey tours always start outside, so we can admire its architecture before heading inside. This famous church is recognisable from various famous royal weddings, funerals, and coronations. It’s hard to ignore London’s history here! 

We’ll enter through the cloisters, which offers a great opportunity to appreciate both the age and the scale of this magnificent building. Look around as we walk into the church; you will see many names, some of these you will recognise immediately, others you may remember once your guide links them with stories.

Next, let’s have a look at one of the oldest pieces of furniture in the United Kingdom. Last used in 2023 in the coronation of our current King, perhaps the most significant piece of furniture in British history, this chair patiently waits for the next coronation. As we pause to admire the coronation chair, listen as your expert guide paints a picture of the coronation ceremony and imagine the spectacle each time a new monarch is crowned in this very spot.

Continuing Your Tour of Westminster Abbey

From there, your Westminster Abbey guided tour makes its way around the church where we’ll find the sites of many burials around the High Altar and hear stories about those buried in the Royal tombs

Learn about two sisters – stepsisters – both queens, but with very different personalities. In life, they weren’t very fond of each other, yet their final resting place is in the same tomb. The Lady Chapel shows you the highest level of a gothic style you’ll see on a private walking tour in London with its beautiful fan-vaulted ceiling.

Now it is time to check out Poets’ Corner and find your favourite writer or poet. Westminster Abbey has so much to offer and we will spend about 2 hours before we move on.

Walking Tour Beyond Westminster Abbey

We will continue on your guided tour outside Westminster Abbey, exploring the prominent landmarks and sites in the surrounding area.

Parliament Square

As we leave the Abbey, we immediately arrive in Parliament Square. This is a great opportunity to take a picture in front of the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben How many statues of famous statesmen can you recognise? Your Blue Badge Guide will be happy to explain who some of them were and their significance in British history.

Pageantry of the Horse Guards

This being London, there is always time for British tradition. The horse guards are just around the corner. Here we see the guards proudly sitting on their horses keeping this area of royal London safe. They are inspected every day, rain or shine.

Time for another quick picture? Watch out though – the horses can bite!

St James Park

Leaving the famous buildings behind for a moment, let’s wander through St James Park, which is home to not only a lovely display of plants and flowers but also many birds. Any ornithologist would be in heaven here: black swans, white swans, pelicans, geese, and many more species call St James Park their home.

If you have children in your group, then let’s take a few minutes to stop and feed the birds and the ever-hungry squirrels!

Buckingham Palace

Our next stop is truly the heart of royal London: Buckingham Palace, a grand building and royal residence. If we get close to the gate, you will see the guards looking after His Majesty. Your private guide will help you figure out if the King is at home today.

Perhaps you’d like a photo with one of the most recognisable landmarks in the world? We’re almost finished with royal sites now, but don’t worry there are still plenty of famous London sites to see on your tour.

Trafalgar Square

Our guided tour of Westminster Abbey and beyond makes its way to Trafalgar Square next, the very city centre of London. The Tour finishes here, but don’t worry, you are ideally placed to visit Leicester Square and Covent Garden, or even head back to Buckingham Palace. Your guide will be happy to help with any directions and suggestions for the rest of your stay.

If you’d like to find out more about the history of Westminster Abbey and take a virtual tour of the highlights, then check out our  Westminster Abbey podcast episode .

Why Book a Westminster Abbey Private Tour?

There is so much to see on a privately guided tour of Westminster Abbey. Whilst you could visit on your own, you will surely miss the layers of history that your Blue Badge Tourist Guide knows by heart.

Taking a Westminster Abbey private tour truly maximises your visit, which may be a once-in-a-lifetime visit.

Our private tours let us tailor the experience to suit you, if you want to spend more time hearing about Royal coronations and Royal history, no problem! Or maybe you’d like to see the famous changing of the guard ceremony for longer, we can arrange it. A private tour makes anything possible.

Other Private Tours in London

If you want to visit Westminster Abbey and another prominent landmark in London, check out our  Tower of London and Westminster Abbey Walking Tour , you’ll even get to see the Crown Jewels!

Westminster Abbey Tour

• Tour inside Westminster Abbey
• Explore Parliament Square & Big Ben
• See Buckingham Palace
• Explore Horse Guards Parade
• Explore Trafalgar Square

All tours are for private groups only and start from £429. Groups can be up to 10 people. Your entrance tickets to Westminster Abbey are included. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us !

Departure Point

Westminster Abbey shop, Broad Sanctuary, Westminster, London SW1P 3JS. By prior arrangement, your guide can meet you at your central London hotel.

Departure Time

Mon-Sat 9:30am

Your tour guide will meet you at the Westminster Abbey shop, they will be holding a sign with the lead customers name.

Travel Guide to attraction on the tour

Everything you need to know about Westminster Abbey 

Why should you book a tour with our Blue Badge Guides?

• All of our Guides are Blue Badge holders, this is Britain’s highest professional tourist-guiding qualification, they are the only external guides able to show you around the most famous attractions.
• Blue Badge guides are carefully selected for an intensive 2 year course culminating in an extensive series of exams in all aspects of History, Art, Architecture, Contemporary Britain and much more
• Your time on holiday is precious, let our expert team make it memorable for all the right reasons
• We pride ourselves on being able to tailor tours to your interest, our guides strive to bring your tour to life, making it enjoyable for all ages

Pick Up Point

5-star rated on tripadvisor, related tours, victoria&albert museum highlights tour, national gallery highlights tour.

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Westminster Abbey

Coronation Church and final resting place of Kings and Queens

This tour is available in most languages. Select your language on checkout.

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About The Tour

Take a private tour of our Coronation Church with your expert British Tours guide. Every single one of our Monarchs since 1066, except two who were never crowned, have been crowned on this spot. Many of our medieval Kings and Queens are buried within, including the three children of our most famous King - Henry VIII.

See Innocents Corner, home to the casket supposedly holding the bones of two little princes murdered in the Tower of London – a truly fascinating story.

From Royal weddings, such as that of William and Kate to Coronations, such as that of Elizabeth II to funerals, such as that of Princess Diana, some of the most important Royal events have taken place here. Your guide will also show you the burial places of some of the most famous names in our rich history - Isaac Newton, Charles Dickens, Charles Darwin, Geoffrey Chaucer to name but a few.

And some surprises too await you on this wonderful tour of this magnificent church - discover why one famous figure was buried standing up!

See also the coronation chair on which our monarchs have been crowned since the 13 th Century and why the stone that it was built to hold, now no longer there, has such an important role to play in history! Unmissable on any visit to London!

This visit can be stand alone in 2 hours or combined with a walk of the Westminster area in 4 hours.

We have Westminster Abbey tour guides speaking all languages

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Royal london, st paul's cathedral, with such limited time on the schedule, it was important that our guide be knowledgeable, energetic and engaging. john exceeded our expectations and provided two memorable days. if our travels bring us back to europe, we know that british tours will be our company of choice when selecting tour guide services.

Sylvette Chenette, NH, USA

Why choose us?

Because you insist on the longest-established and most experienced service available in Britain. Founded in 1958, British Tours is still under the same management. About Us

Who is your Guide?

Our guides are personable educated men and women, chosen for their knowledge, special interests, backgrounds and personality. They will collect you by car from any central London location and guide you inside places of historic importance

Follow us on our journey

Westminster Abbey Tour

Discover the history and secrets of Westminster Abbey on your privately guided tour. Avoid the queues as your guide takes you through a special entrance.

This 1000 year old church is an architectural treasure and national mausoleum. Here you will find the Tomb of the Unknown Warrior and the shrine of St Edward the Confessor. The great and the good are celebrated here, including the graves of scientists Sir Isaac Newton and Charles Darwin and writers Geoffrey Chaucer and Charles Dickens in Poet’s Corner. Westminster Abbey is also a royal church, with 17 kings and queens buried in this magnificent building, including Gloriana herself – Queen Elizabeth I and her half-sister “Bloody” Mary, as well as their cousin Mary, Queen of Scots.

Your private tour guide will show you the seven hundred year old coronation chair where you can experience the theatrical setting used for royal coronations up to the most recent in 1953. Hear stories of royal weddings, including the future queen Elizabeth II and Philip in 1947 and their grandson William and Kate in 2011, and of royal funerals including Diana, Princess of Wales. Marvel at the heraldry and pageantry of the knights of the Order of the Bath, whose chapel is in the former Tudor dynastic mausoleum.

Your private Blue Badge tour guide will escort you through the splendour, intricacy and virtuosity of the greatest work of medieval art in Britain.

A private tour of Westminster Abbey can be combined with a walk to see the Changing of the (Foot) Guard or Horse Guard (when available) and Buckingham Palace.

Please note there is an entrance fee ticket for Westminster Abbey. Blue Badge Guides are the ONLY external guides permitted to conduct tours at Westminster Abbey.

If you require a guide with a private car to conduct your tour please tick above. This will send your request to one of our driver guides who are UK licensed, registered and insured.

If you like this tour, you may also like:

London food tour, national portrait gallery tour, shakespeare tour of london.

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You can book a tour as much as a year in advance.

Tour Prices & Conditions

Wonders of westminster abbey tour, a behind-the-scenes visit of one of britain’s most famous churches.

Did you know Westminster Abbey staged the coronation of 38 British monarchs and is the resting place of 17 kings and queens? On this exclusive London history tour, your private guide will take you behind the scenes of this vast gothic abbey that was founded back in the 10th century. You’ll find out more about the royal and historic personalities buried at the site including Charles Dickens, George Frederick Handel, Isaac Newton and Charles Darwin you’ll admire the English gothic architecture the Cosmati mosaic pavement in front of the High Altar and many other treasures contained in one of the most significant landmarks in London.

London United Kingdom

2.5 hrs duration, 10 max. no. on tour, tour details, keywords : palais de tokyo, notre dame de paris, moulin rouge, paris history, 19th century, included in the tour.

- Services of a professional private guide for 2.5 hours - Skip-the-line tickets for the Abbey

NOT INCLUDED

- Personal shopping - Transport

This private 2.5-hour walking tour will take you around Westminster Abbey to discover the burial places of key historic figures including Charles Dickens, George Frederick Handel, Isaac Newton and Charles Darwin. On arrival, you’ll enjoy skip-the-queue access to the Abbey.

WHERE AND WHEN?

About your guide.

I am Italian and I have been living in London for many years. Before moving to England I spent a few years in Japan where I gained important professional and cultural experiences. After moving to London, I quickly set out exploring the many galleries, museums and neighborhoods. I fell in love with the city - there are so many hidden gems at every twist and turn that I want to share this with you! I’ve since qualified as a Blue Badge Guide in English, Spanish and Italian. Using my teaching experience in Japan and my experience creating educational toys in Italy, I will try to make learning as fun as possible. My mission is to show you the major monuments and hidden secrets of London, from the British Museum to the Tower of London, National Gallery, typical pubs, the East End, Hampton Court and much more. My passions? Art, reading, and languages.

Book this tour and you could give it its first review !

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Private Westminster Abbey Tour

Quick details.

• Globe Region: Europe
• Map Marker Location: London , United Kingdom
• Hour Glass Duration: 2 hours
• Tag Tour Type: Private Tour
• Checkered Flag Meeting Point: Abbey Shop, Official Souvenirs Shop of Westminster Abbey

Private Group

Up to 15 people, per person starting at:.

Visit Westminster Abbey during this private tour. Its construction dates back to 1045 when the then King Eduardo the Confessor ordered its construction. What we can see today dates from between 1245 to 1517 when its original Romanesque style was replaced by Gothic, after the renovation ordered by Enrique III. We will begin our visit at our meeting point, the entrance to Westminster Abbey. Our guide will take us through the corners of this famous building, a traditional place for the coronations and burials of the English monarchs and, later, the British monarchs.

Since the coronation of William the Conqueror in 1066, all English monarchs have been crowned at the Abbey, with the exception of Joanna I and Edward V. We will see the numerous graves of various members of the royal family, aristocrats, and distinguished figures such as scientists and poets, among them we can find the graves of Charles Dickens, Geoffrey Chaucer or Rudyard Kipling.

In recent years, the Abbey has been the scene of Princess Diana’s funeral and the wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton. Definitely, an experience you cannot miss!

Highlights:

• Views of Westminster and statues of the kings reflecting in the river
• See one of the most famous symbols of London: Big Ben
• Get to know one of the World Heritage Sites by UNESCO
• Entrance to Parliament and Westminster Abbey
• Professional guide

Not included:

• Transportation
• Drinks and food

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• Map Marker London , United Kingdom
• Hour Glass 4 hours
• Tag Private Tour

Private Tour to Westminster and the Houses of Parliament

Our guide will take us through the corners of this famous building, a traditional place for the coronations and burials of the English monarchs.

• Hour Glass 2 hours
• Tag Shared Tour

Westminster Abbey Tour

You can’t come to London and miss a visit to the beautiful Westminster Abbey. Discover the  traditional place for the coronations and burials of the English monarchs and, later, the British monarchs!

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Westminster Abbey Tour with Skip-the-Line Tickets

• Walking the path of grand royal coronations and storied weddings, you'll seamlessly weave into the rich tapestry of British history that comes alive within these hallowed halls.
• Experience a journey through time with your Context guide, whose unmatched expertise and profound insights guarantee an enthralling and enlightening tour.

• You prefer a comprehensive experience over a quick visit, ensuring you don't miss the Abbey's hidden gems.
• You're intrigued by the idea of visiting the final resting places of poets, scientists, statesmen, and monarchs who shaped British history.
• Tour cost includes timed skip-the-line access tickets to Westminster Abbey
• Our skip-the-line tickets will get us to a special lane where our group will have to stand in line due to security and crowd control measures.
• If you are looking to learn more about London prior to a visit, check out our Online Lectures and Audio Guides.
• Additional information about accessibility at the abbey is available here.

Reviews can only be left by Context customers after they have completed a tour. For more information about our reviews, please see our FAQ .

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Unlock centuries of history: book our westminster abbey tour with our skip-the-line tickets, book a tour.

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WestminsterAbbeyTours.com

Westminster abbey tours.

Welcome to an extraordinary journey through centuries of history with a Westminster Abbey tour ! Prepare to be captivated by the grandeur and significance of one of London’s most revered landmarks. Friendly and professional guides will lead you through this architectural masterpiece, providing a memorable and informative experience.

As you step inside Westminster Abbey, you’ll be immersed in the rich tapestry of British history. Marvel at the stunning Gothic architecture, adorned with intricate details and soaring arches. The abbey’s sacred halls have witnessed coronations, royal weddings, and the final resting place of many notable figures.

Featured Tour

Guided Tour of London Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, Buckingham

Discover Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, and Buckingham Palace sans queues. Let a Blue Badge Guide uncover London’s heritage on a priority-access walking tour. Explore iconic landmarks and royal history.

Knowledgeable guides will bring the abbey’s illustrious past to life, sharing captivating stories and fascinating insights into the lives of kings, queens, poets, and statesmen who shaped the course of British history. Discover the exquisite Poets’ Corner, where literary legends such as Shakespeare, Wordsworth, and Austen find their eternal rest.

Witness the beauty of the abbey’s chapels, each with its own unique character and historical significance. Admire the intricate craftsmanship of the medieval stained glass windows and the breathtaking majesty of the Lady Chapel.

During your tour, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the Coronation Chair, where monarchs have been crowned for centuries. Stand in awe before the magnificent Royal Tombs, paying homage to monarchs and influential figures from the past.

Westminster Abbey tours are designed to maximize your comfort and enjoyment. With a focus on your safety, every effort is made to provide a seamless and well-organized experience, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in this iconic landmark.

Experience the awe-inspiring atmosphere of Westminster Abbey, a place where history, art, and spirituality converge. Book your tour today and savor being guided through the corridors of power, tradition, and unparalleled beauty.

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The Best Westminster Abbey Tours To Take in 2024 and Why

Brie Greenhalgh Last Updated: September 26, 2023

You’ve seen Westminster Abbey on TV for famous weddings, funerals, and other ceremonies, but have you ever visited? The long lines can make for a slow and crowded visit, so booking a guided tour with skip-the-line access is a good idea. Here are some of the best Westminster Abbey tours you can take in London.

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 .

Should You Take a Tour of Westminster Abbey?

Short answer: Definitely, since there’s literally 1,000 years of history to discover here!

The history of Westminster Abbey starts around 785 A.D. with a small monastery that became a church in 1065. Multiple remodels and renovations later, we have this magnificent abbey that has held Britain’s coronations since William the Conqueror.

It’s also famously been the site of Kate Middleton and Prince William’s wedding, the oldest son of Britain’s beloved Princess Diana. And it was here at Westminster where Diana’s funeral captured the attention of nearly 2.5 billion people around the world. And that’s just recent history! It doesn’t include other notables like Stephen Hawking, Sir Isaac Newton, George Frederich Handel, and many more who are buried here.

Long story short, there’s a lot to see, explore, and learn about at Westminster Abbey. Booking with a guide who is passionate and ultra-knowledgeable about London’s famous church will make your trip much more meaningful.

It elevates the experience from a photo session to a learning experience of cool stories and facts. Not to mention the benefit of skip-the-line tickets! Here are some of our recent reviews about Westminster Abbey tours.

Not ready to book a tour? See our  Westminster Abbey Guide for more info.

Two of the Best Westminster Tours in London

The most complicated thing about visiting Westminster is navigating the lines and crowds. Although, we’d also argue that there is just so much to see here that the history is also fairly complicated to discover on your own.

That’s why we always recommend seeing famous monuments with licensed guides. Their expertise and passion for the history of places like Westminster elevates your visit. With stories, anecdotes, and fun facts, they’ll be sure to make your trip entertaining, enlightening, and rewarding.

We offer two tours of Westminster Abbey that you can choose from. One is dedicated to a tour of the church, while the other includes the church in a full day of touring London. So check them out below and see which Westminster tour is right for you!

• London Walking Tour with Westminster Abbey and Changing of the Guard
• London in a Day Tour with Westminster Abbey and Tower of London

2. London Walking Tour with Westminster Abbey and Changing of the Guard

Westminster Abbey

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. This is the oldest part of the entire church, and your guide will share its unique history as you stand in near-quiet solitude here.

With over 3,000 people buried here over the centuries, it’s hard to decide exactly what to see and who you’re looking at. This is where your guide will come in handy as they take you to the Poet’s Corner and other notable tombs that are the highlights you can’t miss. And of course, you’ll see the famous coronation chair at the High Altar across from the Lady Chapel.

Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace

Finally, you’ll also get a chance to see the famous Changing of the Guard ceremony. This happens every day in June and July, but only on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays the rest of the year. Your guide knows just how to help you see the most of this auspicious event.

Highlights:

• Skip-the-line entry to Westminster Abbey
• Guided visit of Britain’s most famous church
• Changing of the Guard ceremony (certain days)
• Pictures of Buckingham Palace

1. London in a Day Tour with Westminster Abbey and Tower of London

London is a great city to explore, but many of the sites are spread across long distances. That’s why we created this epic London in a Day tour. You’ll be amazed at just how much you’re able to see as you follow the steps of your licensed, local guide. We hire the best guides in London to make sure you have an incredible experience when you book one of the best Westminster Abbey tours that includes other top attractions in London.

Your day starts at Westminster Abbey with skip-the-line tickets and a guided tour of this ancient church. It’s the site of famous churches, funerals, and every British coronation ceremony since 1066 AD! There’s a lot to discover so you’ll appreciate having a guide who knows exactly where to spend your valuable time here.

Next you’ll head over to the Mall to watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony (certain days) or the Horse Guard. You’ll get more than a moment’s view of this famous event, since your guide will lead you through the entire process at Buckingham Palace.

You’ll likely have time to see Downing Street, the famous home of Britain’s Prime Ministers before heading to Trafalgar square to choose where to eat lunch. (And get off your feet for a bit!)

River Thames Boat Ride

Next, a ride down the River Thames is the perfect way to see London from a new angle. You’ll travel to your next stop: the Tower of London.

Tower of London

Here your guide will unveil the deep history of Britain’s oldest fortress that has Roman origins! Get to know the history of Thomas Moore, Anne Boleyn, Henry the VIII, Walter Raleigh and more. Plus, step into the museum where the ostentatious crown jewels are kept. This tour makes all of this easy to do and incredibly rewarding too.

• See the best of London’s top attractions in a single day
• Skip-the-line entry at Westminster Abbey
• Free time for lunch
• Transportation to Tower of London included
• Quick entry to Tower of London
• Entry to see Crown Jewels
• Free time to walk across Tower Bridge at the end of your tour

Not ready to book a tour? Find out if London tours are worth it .

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About Brie Greenhalgh

Writer, editor, teacher, hiker, traveler, dreamer. With a book or pen in hand and a majestic sunset on the horizon, life is never short of fulfilling moments for Brie. She has a background in history and writing, and enjoys writing and editing for BobVila.com, The Tour Guy, and her own business.

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