Welcome to Westminster Abbey

Benedictine monks founded Westminster Abbey in 960AD. To this day, we retain a tradition of Christian worship and welcome.

You're welcome here

Discover over ten centuries of British history in a building in the heart of London where worship takes place every day.

Visit the Abbey

Painting of the north side of Westminster Abbey, circa 1820

Our history

The Abbey has been the coronation church since 1066, and is the final resting place of 17 monarchs. The church we see today was begun by Henry III in 1245. It’s one of the most important Gothic buildings in the country, and has the medieval shrine of an Anglo-Saxon saint at its heart.

Explore the Abbey's history

Senior police give a lecture in the Lady Chapel, Westminster Abbey

Westminster Abbey Institute

The Institute works with the public service institutions around Parliament Square to promote moral and spiritual values in public life. Its twice-yearly programmes of lectures and meetings are open to the public.

About the Institute

Wooden bookshelves and display cases in the medieval library, Westminster Abbey

Library & research

Our library and muniment room houses our extensive and historic collections of books, manuscripts, archival material, photographs and more. If you want to use these for research, you’re welcome to make an appointment.

Find out more