Visit Henry VII’s Lady Chapel Westminster Abbey

What is the Henry VII Lady Chapel?

Like other chapels built in honor of the Virgin Mary in the 13th century, this chapel was also dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary and hence called the Lady Chapel.

Described as 'the miracle of the world' by 16th-century historian John Leland, the Henry VII Lady Chapel is better known as the Henry VII Chapel or Lady Chapel. Situated in the far eastern end of Westminster Abbey, this is also the burial place of 15 kings and queens. History and architecture buffs visit from near and far to marvel at its gorgeous interiors - the unique pendant-style fan vaulted ceiling and high stained glass windows.

Henry VII Chapel at Westminster Abbey in London was built in 1503 at the request of Henry VII, England's first Tudor Monarch for a huge, bank-breaking sum of £14,000. Interestingly though, the Henry VII Chapel was intended to be a shrine to Henry's half-uncle, Henry VI who was tragically murdered. Ironically enough, it went on to actually become the tomb of Henry VII and his wife after their passing.

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Why visit the Lady Chapel

Tudor architecture: The Henry VII Lady Chapel is celebrated as the final masterpiece of English medieval architecture, known for its unique pendant fan-vaulted ceiling and stained glass windows.
Historical site: Commissioned in 1503 by Henry VII, England's inaugural Tudor monarch, the chapel is rich in history and serves as the final resting place for 15 kings and queens, including Henry VII and his queen, Elizabeth of York.
Culturally rich: The chapel stands as a testament to the 13th-century devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary and reflects 13th-century religious and cultural symbolism in English history
Magnificent tombs: Admire the gilt bronze effigies of Henry VII and Elizabeth of York, crafted by the Florentine Renaissance sculptor Pietro Torrigiano. Additionally, the chapel houses the tombs of other notable figures.
Stunning interiors: The chapel's interior is decorated with 95 statues of saints, carved misericords (hinged seats to help people stand for long periods), and stained glass windows depicting historical events and symbols associated with the Blessed Virgin Mary.

Henry VII Lady Chapel highlights

Tombs

The alcove of the Chapel contains the altar, behind which are the grand tombs —- Lady Chapel is, after all, a mausoleum to English royalty. Presently, 15 kings and queens are buried in the Lady Chapel, the most prominent being King Henry VII and his wife, Elizabeth of York who share a tomb and have bronze gilt effigies. Other prominent members include Mary I, Elizabeth I, James I, Charles II, and Mary, Queen of Scots.

Installation of knights

The ceremony of the Installation of Knights of the Order of Bath was first introduced by King George I in 1725. Ever since, every 4 years, the Lady Chapel has been used for the ceremony of Installation of Knights of the Order of Bath. During this celebration, the view of the interior of the chapel — the light streaming in from the huge windows illuminating the carvings on the walls and the fan-vaulted ceiling - is shown off in all its glory.

Royal Airforce Chapel

Situated at the eastern end of the chapel, the Royal Airforce Chapel is dedicated to the brave soldiers who gave their lives in the Battle of Britain in 1940. Funds were raised to build this chapel, then decorated with a stained glass window that symbolizes Redemption, and unveiled by King George VI on July 10 1947. This chapel was damaged during the war and a hole made in the stonework is preserved behind glass.

Brief history of the Lady Chapel

Built between 1503 and 1516, the Henry VII Chapel was paid for by the will of King Henry VII. Henry VII Chapel was essentially an homage to and a keepsake of the Tudor dynasty.
The spectacular chapel was built as the resting place for Henry VI who was expected to be canonised. This was actually a plot by Henry VII to secure his throne as king that ultimately failed. The canonization did not occur and the tomb intended for Henry VI became the resting place for King Henry VII and his wife.
Henry VII Chapel was also an attempt to replace the older, simpler structures dedicated to the Virgin Mary with a much more grand and elaborate chapel.
The chapel was also envisioned to be a mausoleum for England's royalty, a religious legacy for King Henry VII, his family and his heirs. Through the years though, several people not of royal descent were buried here. They were, however, disinterred after restoration.

History of Westminster Abbey

Architecture of the Henry VII Chapel

William Vertue and Robert Vertue are the two primary architects of the chapel, but historians believe that Robert Janyns Jr. is the design genius behind the Henry VII Lady Chapel.

Although it was built during the Renaissance, Gothic architecture was still popular at the time and so the Chapel boasts a Perpendicular Gothic style. This particular style is more ornate than French Gothic and uses decorative tracery effects. It is also why the Chapel stands out when compared to the plainer Gothic style of the rest of Westminster Abbey.

Inside, you will see elaborate bronze gates, mahogany stalls, stone floors, stained-glass windows, curved walls and of course, the Chapel's most striking feature - the detailed fan-vaulted ceiling.

Frequently asked questions about the Henry VII Lady Chapel

Can I visit the Lady Chapel when I visit Westminster Abbey?

Yes, you can visit Henry VII Chapel at Westminster Abbey, but this is possible only when visiting as part of a tour. Those who attend the mass for free cannot explore the monuments or visit the tombs.

Can I see the effigies of Henry VII and Elizabeth of York with my tickets?

Yes, you can view the gilt bronze effigies of Henry VII and Elizabeth of York, masterfully created by Florentine Renaissance sculptor, Pietro Torrigiano.

What makes the fan-vaulted ceiling in the Lady Chapel special?

The fan-vaulted ceiling in the Lady Chapel is one of the finest examples of this architectural style in the world. Its intricate design, featuring radiating ribs that fan out across the ceiling, is an engineering marvel from the early 16th century.

How long should I spend at the Lady Chapel?

Most visitors spend about 20-30 minutes exploring the Lady Chapel as part of their broader visit to Westminster Abbey. Take your time to admire the tombs, ceiling, and stained-glass windows to fully appreciate their beauty.

What is the best time to visit the Lady Chapel?

To avoid crowds, the best times to visit are early in the morning or late in the afternoon, especially on weekdays. This allows for a more peaceful experience as you explore the chapel's details.

Are photography and filming allowed inside the Lady Chapel?

Photography and filming inside the chapel are generally not allowed to preserve the solemnity of the space and the experience of other visitors. However, visitors can purchase postcards and other souvenirs featuring images of the chapel from the Abbey’s gift shop.

Is there a dress code for visiting the Lady Chapel?

As with most religious sites, modest dress is appreciated at Westminster Abbey and the Lady Chapel. Visitors should avoid wearing overly casual attire, such as beachwear, and should respect the sacred nature of the site.

Can I bring children to visit the Lady Chapel?

Yes, children are welcome to visit the Lady Chapel, and Westminster Abbey is a family-friendly attraction. Kids may enjoy learning about the history and seeing the beautiful architecture, although younger children should be supervised due to the solemn nature of the site.