Home to some of London’s most famous landmarks, Westminster is the political heart of the English capital. It’s here that you’ll find the Palace of Westminster, Big Ben and Westminster Abbey, as well as the home of the British monarchy at Buckingham Palace.
Things to do in Westminster
An architectural icon of Westminster is its Gothic abbey, which is the burial site of monarchs, prime ministers and the Unknown Warrior. Originally established as a Benedictine monastic church, it is here that British royals have been coronated since 1066. Join a guided tour to see the Tomb of St. Edward the Confessor and Poets’ Corner and discover why Westminster Abbey has been nicknamed “Britain’s Valhalla”.
If you’re interested in the United Kingdom’s political system, don’t miss a visit to the Palace of Westminster, which dominates the north bank of the River Thames. In addition to touring the House of Commons and the House of Lords, it’s also possible to visit the public galleries. Coincide your visit with the hourly chiming of Big Ben, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed bell that forms part of the Elizabeth Tower.
One of London’s most famous experiences is the Changing of the Guards, which takes place at Buckingham Palace most mornings. Dressed in red coats and bearskin hats, the Foot Guards march theatrically to music performed by a regimental band as they change shifts. On the other side of St. James’s Park is the Horse Guards Parade where the Trooping the Colour takes place annually.
Getting around Westminster
Westminster is around 30 minutes’ drive from London Heathrow Airport while trains connect from destinations across the United Kingdom to the Victoria railway station. Underground services travel along London’s Circle and District lines to St. James Park station, from where most of Westminster’s attractions can be accessed on foot.