Bookable
Your visit, considered
Make room for
a little wonder.
A practical guide to Westminster Abbey,
from planning your ticket to finding your way.

Before you go
The details for a good day
Plan your visit to Westminster Abbey
Opening times, useful amenities and a few things to know before you arrive.
Opening times
All times are local to London.
- Monday to Friday
- 09:30–16:30Last entry 15:30
- Saturday
- 09:30–16:00Last entry 15:00
- Sunday
- Worship onlyNo sightseeing on Sundays or on religious holidays such as Christmas Day
Allow time to explore before closing. Your ticket shows your date and entry time.
Finding the Abbey
Westminster Abbey stands on Parliament Square, opposite the Houses of Parliament. Visitors enter by the North Entrance, facing the square.
Westminster Abbey, Dean’s YardLondon SW1P 3PA, United Kingdom
- By Underground: Westminster station is about 300 metres away and St James’s Park about 500 metres.
- By rail: Charing Cross, Waterloo and Victoria stations are 16 to 24 minutes away on foot.
- Before arrival: leave time for the journey and entry checks so you are ready for your booked slot.
Useful stops along the way
Facilities can change through the year. Visitors can usually expect:
- Toilets and baby changing in the Cloisters.
- A multimedia guide in 14 languages, included with admission.
- The Abbey shop, with step-free access.
- The Cellarium Café and Terrace, and a kiosk for snacks.
Bring only a small bag: luggage, large backpacks and bags with wheels are not allowed. Ask staff about current arrangements when you arrive.
A visit that works for you
Most of the self-guided route is step-free, with step-free entry by the North Door, the Great West Door and the cloister entrance in Dean’s Yard; the Lady Chapel, Chapter House, Pyx Chamber and some side chapels have steps. Wheelchairs can be borrowed, a lift serves the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Galleries and assistance dogs are welcome.
- Check arrangements for your particular mobility or access needs before travelling.
- If you are bringing a stroller, confirm the current arrangements before arrival.
- Ask Abbey staff for assistance or directions during your visit.
Visit the Abbey thoughtfully
- Keep your voice low and give way to worshippers; services can close parts of the building.
- Leave tombs, memorials and historic surfaces untouched.
- Photography is allowed in most areas, but not during services, in the Shrine of St Edward the Confessor, St Faith’s Chapel or the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Galleries.
- Flash, video, tripods, selfie sticks and drones are not allowed.
- Follow the guidance of the Abbey’s staff, and ask an accompanying adult before photographing children.
A little care keeps the Abbey a place of worship and quiet for everyone.
Make time for a pause
The Cellarium Café and Terrace in the Abbey serves meals through the day, and the streets around Westminster have more cafés and restaurants.
- Stop for breakfast, lunch, a hot drink or refreshments nearby.
- Leave room in your plans to sit down and enjoy the setting.
- Check opening hours and menus on the day; food and drinks are purchased separately.
Allow about one and a half to two hours for the main highlights.
A few details worth planning
- Book ahead: choose the date, time and places you want to visit before making other plans.
- Keep your QR ticket ready: save it on your phone or bring a printed copy, with any proof needed for reduced admission.
- Start in the right place: enter by the North Entrance on Parliament Square and follow your ticket’s instructions.
- Dress for a church: there is no strict dress code, but modest clothing, comfortable shoes and a charged phone make the visit easier.
- Leave space to linger: allow extra time for the cloisters, the Chapter House and the College Garden.
Visitor information checked 10 November 2026. Opening times and facilities can change; follow the date, time and instructions on your issued ticket.

Bring the essentials
Check the current visitor guidance before you travel.
- Comfortable shoes
- Charged phone
- A small bag only
- Your booking details