Westminster Abbey opening hours | Best time to visit, recommended duration & more

Today

Open 09:30–15:30

Book Westminster Abbey tickets

Westminster Abbey Tickets

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Flexible duration
Audio guide
Guided tour

Westminster Abbey, Big Ben & Buckingham Palace Guided Tour

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Flexible duration

Westminster Abbey Guided Tour with Skip-the-Line Entry

Free cancellation
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2 hr. - 3 hr.

Combo (Save 5%): Westminster Abbey + Tower of London Tickets

Audio guide

Best time to visit the Westminster Abbey

Weekday vs Weekend

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Mon

Tue

Wed

Thu

Fri

Sat

Sun

Pleasant
Crowded
Very Crowded
Closed

Peak season vs low season

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Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Off Season
Moderate Season
Peak Season

How long should I spend at Westminster Abbey?

Most visitors spend between 1.5 and 2.5 hours at Westminster Abbey, but how long you stay really depends on how deep you want to go. Whether you're here for the highlights or ready to explore every detail, there's plenty to uncover.

1-2 hours

Short on time? You’ll still be able to take in the major highlights like the Coronation Chair, Poets’ Corner, and the Royal Tombs. It’s a quick visit, but rich in history and totally worth it.

2-4 hours

Got a bit more time? You can wander at your own pace, spend time reading memorials, listen to the audio guide, and maybe even catch a short service. Ideal for slow strolls and soaking it all in.

4+ hours

History lover or architecture nerd? Set aside half a day to really dive in. You’ll have time for every chapel, cloister, exhibit, and even a quiet break at the café or gardens nearby. Total deep-dive mode.

Frequently Asked Questions about Westminster Abbey opening hours

Mid-afternoon, especially after 2pm on weekdays, often sees shorter queues, as many morning tour groups have already passed through by then.