Westminster Abbey

Westminster Abbey has been the coronation church of English and later British monarchs since 1066, and it remains a working church with daily services. The present Gothic building was largely begun under Henry III in the 13th century, replacing an earlier abbey founded by Edward the Confessor. Seventeen monarchs are buried here, and its walls and floors are crowded with memorials to statesmen, scientists, poets and soldiers, which makes a visit feel like a walk through a thousand years of national history.

The sightseeing route takes you past the shrine of Edward the Confessor, the tombs of Elizabeth I and Mary, Queen of Scots, and the fan-vaulted Lady Chapel built by Henry VII. Poets' Corner holds memorials to Chaucer, Shakespeare, Dickens and many other writers, while the nave contains the Grave of the Unknown Warrior and memorials to figures such as Isaac Newton and Charles Darwin. High above the floor, the Queen's Diamond Jubilee Galleries in the 13th-century triforium display many of the abbey's treasures, and the cloisters and Chapter House are also part of the visit.

The abbey suits anyone with an interest in history, architecture or royal ceremony. It is calmer early in the day, and because it is a place of worship visitors are asked to dress and behave respectfully. Sundays are reserved for services, which are free and open to all, so there is no sightseeing then. Attending Evensong on a weekday is a memorable alternative way to hear the choir in the building.

Sightseeing hours are generally 09:30 to 16:30 on weekdays, with last entry at 15:30, and 09:00 to 16:00 on Saturdays, but the abbey can close at short notice for special services, so check before you go. Advance booking online is strongly recommended at busy times. Bags larger than cabin size, 55 x 40 x 20 cm, are not allowed and there is no left luggage, although Victoria station has a storage service. Step-free access is available through the North Door, Great West Door and the cloister entrance in Dean's Yard, and manual wheelchairs can be borrowed free from an Abbey Marshal. Registered disabled visitors and one companion are admitted free.

Westminster Underground station is about four minutes' walk and St James's Park about six. The Houses of Parliament and Big Ben stand directly opposite, Parliament Square and Whitehall lead towards Trafalgar Square, and St James's Park offers a quiet green walk to Buckingham Palace.