Complete Westminster Abbey & Special Access Jubilee Galleries

Explore the historic Westminster Abbey with this comprehensive 3-hour tour that combines skip-the-line access, a visit to the Queens Diamond Jubilee Galleries, and insights from an expert Blue Badge guide. Priced at $122.01 per person, this experience is highly praised, earning a perfect 5.0-star rating from 27 reviews and a 96% recommendation rate.

You meet your guide at the Sir Winston Churchill statue outside Parliament Square, a convenient starting point close to public transport. The tour offers a relaxed pace with plenty of time to absorb the grandeur of the Abbey and its treasures, making it ideal for history enthusiasts and first-time visitors alike.

While the tour is well-structured and filled with highlights, it’s worth noting that it involves walking and may be crowded during peak times. Nevertheless, the price includes admission and access to areas usually off-limits, providing excellent value for those eager to explore London’s most iconic religious site.

Key Points

• Includes skip-the-queue entry to Westminster Abbey, saving time during busy periods.
• Special access to the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Galleries, showcasing artifacts over 1,000 years old.
• Expert Blue Badge guide provides engaging, informative commentary.
• Three-hour duration offers a thorough overview without feeling rushed.
• Tour departs at 9:00am from Parliament Square, with a manageable group size of up to 20 travelers.
• The experience is perfect for those interested in royalty, British history, and stunning architecture.

Meeting at Parliament Square to Start Your Visit

The tour begins at the Viscount Palmerston Statue in Parliament Square, a central and easy-to-find location. From here, your guide offers a brief introduction to the area’s significance before heading into Westminster Abbey. The proximity to public transportation makes this starting point accessible for most visitors.

Once assembled, you’ll walk a short distance to the Abbey, bypassing the often lengthy queues thanks to your pre-booked tickets. The meeting point’s clarity and the small group size help keep things smooth and personal right from the start.

Discovering Westminster Abbey’s Iconic Entrance and Architecture

Upon entry, the tour skips the lines, allowing you immediate access to the Abbey’s interior. The guide leads you through the church’s vast nave, highlighting its Gothic architecture and centuries of religious history. The High Altar is a focal point, serving as the site of royal weddings and significant ceremonies.

This tour emphasizes the importance of the Abbey as a royal and national monument, making stops at notable tombs and memorials of figures like Charles Darwin, Edward V, and Sir Isaac Newton. The guide enriches these visits with stories that connect visitors to the individuals buried here.

Exploring the Royals’ Coronation Seat and Royal History

The Coronation Chair is a highlight, standing prominently as the throne on which successive monarchs have been crowned. The guide explains its history and significance, providing context for its place within British royal tradition.

Royal ceremonies, including weddings and coronations, are also discussed, emphasizing the Abbey’s role in shaping the monarchy’s public image. Visitors gain insight into the longstanding monarchy and its influence on British culture.

Visiting the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and War Memorials

A poignant stop is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, which symbolizes Britain’s respect for fallen soldiers. The guide shares details about its history and the meaning behind this solemn monument.

Additional war memorials within the Abbey underscore the connection between Britain’s history and its national identity, giving visitors a chance to reflect on the country’s sacrifices.

Inside the Queens Diamond Jubilee Galleries

The Queens Diamond Jubilee Galleries are a major feature of this tour, providing access to artifacts that are over 1000 years old. The galleries, recently opened after over 700 years of closure, showcase historic treasures related to Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee.

Guests marvel at the collection of precious artifacts and learn about the significance of the items displayed. The guide describes the galleries’ architecture and highlights, making clear that this is a rare opportunity to see parts of the Abbey usually off-limits to the public.

Highlighting the Famous Figures Buried in Westminster Abbey

Throughout the tour, the guide points out the tombs of remarkable individuals, including Charles Darwin, Edward V, and Sir Isaac Newton. Learn how the Abbey serves as a final resting place for some of Britain’s most influential figures.

These stops include explanations of their contributions to science, history, and culture, making it easier to appreciate the Abbey’s role as a pantheon of national heroes.

Practical Insights, Crowd Levels, and Tour Pacing

The tour departs at 9:00am, an early start that helps avoid the larger crowds that gather later in the day. Reviewers note that early visits provide a more comfortable experience and better views of the interior.

The tour involves walking, and guests should be comfortable with moderate-paced movement. The group is limited to 20 travelers, ensuring a more personal and engaging experience.

During busy times, the tour guides excel at navigating crowds, and the use of audio headsets helps ensure everyone can hear the commentary clearly, even in noisy sections.

The Special Access to the Jubilee Galleries and Other Hidden Corners

The Jubilee Galleries are accessed via a special route, offering a unique view of the Abbey’s treasures. Visitors see artifacts over a millennium old, including items that tell stories of royal history and religious tradition.

This access is a standout feature, as it provides insights and views not available on typical tours. The galleries’ displays include items related to Queen Elizabeth II’s reign, adding a royal dimension to the visit.

Final Impressions: Is This Tour Right for You?

This Westminster Abbey tour is well-suited for those interested in royalty, British history, architecture, and artifacts. The skip-the-line tickets and special access to the Jubilee Galleries make it a valuable experience, especially for visitors with limited time who want a guided, rundown.

The small group size and expert guide ensure personalized attention, but guests should be prepared for some walking and potential crowds. The price point reflects the inclusion of entry tickets and access to exclusive areas, offering good value for a deeper look at one of London’s most iconic monuments.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in this Westminster Abbey tour?
The tour includes skip-the-queue access to Westminster Abbey, a visit to the Queens Diamond Jubilee Galleries, and an expert Blue Badge guide leading the experience.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, starting at 9:00am from Parliament Square.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Guests should be comfortable walking at a moderate pace, as the tour involves walking through the Abbey and galleries. The tour is not specifically tailored for accessibility needs.

Do I need to purchase tickets separately?
No, admission tickets are included in the tour price, allowing you to skip the lines and access restricted areas.

What are the main highlights I will see?
Key highlights include the Coronation Chair, Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Royal memorials, and the Queens Diamond Jubilee Galleries filled with artifacts over 1000 years old.

Can I join this tour if I don’t speak English?
The tour is conducted in English, and no alternative language options are specified.

This detailed tour of Westminster Abbey offers a balanced mix of history, architecture, and royal stories, making it an excellent choice for visitors eager to explore London’s iconic religious site with expert guidance and special access.