Royal Westminster Walking Tour with Westminster Abbey
Discover the heart of London on this 60-minute guided walking tour through Westminster’s historic streets. See world-famous landmarks including the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, and Horse Guards Parade while your expert local guide shares fascinating stories of British royalty, UK politics, and London’s rich history. Your tour finishes outside the majestic Westminster Abbey where you can explore its stunning interior at your own pace, from the Coronation Chair to Poets’ Corner. Perfect for history lovers and first-time visitors to London, England and the United Kingdom.
What's included
- 60-minute walking guided tour of Westminster
- Personal audio-sets
- Self-guided tour of Westminster Abbey (suggested visit time: 2 hours)
- Westminster Abbey Multimedia guide
- Hotel pick-up/drop-off
Overview
WESTMINSTER WALKING TOUR
Step into centuries of British history on this guided Westminster walking tour in central London. Over 60 minutes, stroll past iconic London landmarks, starting in Parliament Square, home to statues of historical leaders including Winston Churchill, Nelson Mandela, and Mahatma Gandhi—set the stage for stories of leadership, courage, and change.
From there, admire the Houses of Parliament and the legendary Elizabeth Tower, home to Big Ben, as your guide brings to life the monarchy, democracy, and defining moments that shaped the United Kingdom. Cross Westminster Bridge for stunning panoramic views of the River Thames and the London Eye, before continuing down Whitehall to see Horse Guards Parade and the gates of 10 Downing Street, the official residence where Britain’s prime ministers have made history for centuries.
The walk also takes you through the tranquil St James’s Park, offering a peaceful glimpse of royal gardens and wildlife, and finishes outside the awe-inspiring Westminster Abbey, one of London’s most famous historic attractions.
WESTMINSTER ABBEY
Explore one of Britain’s most iconic and historically significant churches at your own pace with a self-guided tour of Westminster Abbey, part of the Westminster World Heritage Site recognized by UNESCO for its outstanding cultural and architectural value. Discover over a thousand years of history, from royal coronations to centuries of royal weddings, funerals, and state ceremonies. Wander through the soaring Gothic architecture, marvel at intricate stonework, and experience the spiritual and cultural legacy of the nation.
Highlights of the self-guided tour include:
- The Coronation Chair – used for every English and British coronation since 1308.
- Poets’ Corner – the resting place and memorials of literary greats such as William Shakespeare, Charles Dickens, and Geoffrey Chaucer.
- Royal Tombs – including Elizabeth I, Mary Queen of Scots, and Henry VII.
- The Lady Chapel (Henry VII Chapel) – a masterpiece of late Gothic architecture with elaborate fan vaulting and stained glass.
- Chapter House & Cloisters – peaceful spaces rich with history, once used by monks and for storing historic documents.
Your self-guided visit allows complete flexibility: linger at the monuments that interest you most, take photographs where permitted, and soak in the atmosphere of this extraordinary place. Audio guides are available for additional context, stories, and historical details.
Whether you are a history enthusiast, architecture lover, or simply seeking to understand the legacy of Britain’s monarchy, a self-guided tour of Westminster Abbey offers a deeply personal and unforgettable journey through centuries of British history.
Know before you go
For entry to Westminster Abbey on conclusion of your walking tour: Please present your complete e-ticket/voucher on your smart phone at the North Door.