- 2 min walk (150 m)
- See Big Ben and tour the seat of UK government
- Cost: From £36
Top things to do near Westminster Abbey
Parliament Square
The Supreme Court
10 Downing Street (view from gate)
Westminster Abbey stands in the heart of London’s Westminster district, just steps from the River Thames and Parliament Square. Around Westminster Abbey, you’ll find some of London’s most famous sights, beautiful parks, and vibrant museums all within a 20-minute walk. Its central location makes it an ideal starting point for exploring the city’s history, culture, and culinary scene with ease.
Unlock entry to top attractions near Westminster Abbey, including Churchill War Rooms, Buckingham Palace, and the London Eye. Save up to 40% and skip the ticket lines for a seamless sightseeing day.
Tour the seat of British government and admire the iconic clock tower, Big Ben, just across the street from Westminster Abbey.
This bustling square is surrounded by statues of world leaders and offers classic views of Westminster Abbey and Big Ben.
London’s oldest royal park features a lake, flowerbeds, and resident pelicans, perfect for a peaceful stroll or picnic.
Step into the underground nerve center where Winston Churchill directed WWII operations, now a fascinating museum.
The official London residence of the monarch, famous for its grand façade and the Changing of the Guard ceremony.
Visit the UK’s highest court, housed in a striking neo-Gothic building with free exhibitions on law and justice.
See the famous black door of the Prime Minister’s residence from the Whitehall gates, a classic London photo stop.
Soar above the Thames on Europe’s tallest observation wheel for panoramic views of Westminster and beyond.
Discover the secret underground headquarters where Churchill and his team strategized during WWII, now a museum packed with original artifacts.
Learn about the history of the five regiments of Foot Guards who protect the royal family, with uniforms, medals, and weaponry on display.
This gallery hosts rotating exhibitions of treasures from the Royal Collection, including paintings, rare furniture, and decorative arts.
Go behind the scenes at Horse Guards Parade to see the working stables and learn about the Queen’s mounted bodyguard.
Home to the national collection of British art from 1500 to today, including works by Turner, Constable, and Hockney.
Explore masterpieces by da Vinci, Van Gogh, and Monet in one of the world’s top art museums, located on Trafalgar Square.
💡 Tip: Arrive by 10:30am to secure a spot for this colorful ceremony, a favorite with families and photographers alike.
Enjoy modern British cuisine in a refined setting, just steps from the Abbey and Parliament.
Located within Westminster Abbey’s cloisters, this café serves breakfast, lunch, and afternoon tea in a historic setting.
A traditional British pub with a political history, serving real ales and classic pub fare near Parliament Square.
Set in a former library, this elegant restaurant offers contemporary Indian cuisine and creative cocktails.
Historic pub opposite Big Ben, popular for its pies and cask ales, with views of Parliament.
Modern take on the British pub, serving craft beers and elevated comfort food in a stylish setting.
Stroll among statues of world leaders and enjoy the lively atmosphere at this historic public square.
Relax in the park, watch pelicans, and enjoy city views for free.
Watch this iconic ceremony outside the palace gates without spending a penny.
Walk across the bridge for classic views of the Abbey, Parliament, and the London Eye.
A lively public space with fountains, statues, and street performers, perfect for people-watching.
See the daily Changing of the Horse Guards and snap photos with mounted soldiers.
Hop-on Hop-off buses stop right by Westminster Abbey and connect you to the London Eye, Buckingham Palace, and Trafalgar Square. It’s the easiest way to cover the city’s highlights in a single day.
A tranquil green space with a lake, flowerbeds, and resident pelicans, ideal for a break from city sightseeing.
Riverside park behind the Houses of Parliament, with sculptures, playgrounds, and Thames views.
A peaceful park near Buckingham Palace, known for its mature trees and open lawns.
Modern park on the South Bank, with playgrounds and views of the London Eye and Thames.
Iconic ceremonial route leading from Buckingham Palace to Trafalgar Square, lined with flags and trees.
A lively plaza with fountains, the National Gallery, and frequent public events.
This grand avenue is lined with government buildings and memorials, connecting Parliament Square to Trafalgar Square.
A hub of London’s political life, surrounded by historic buildings and statues.
Experience the city lights from above on an evening ride, with illuminated landmarks stretching across the skyline.
Catch a world-class play or musical at this riverside venue on the South Bank.
Sip cocktails and enjoy live jazz in a stylish hotel bar near the park.
Stroll along the Thames for street performers, pop-up bars, and riverside dining.
Kids can marvel at sharks, rays, and penguins in themed zones, with interactive touch pools and feeding sessions.
A well-equipped play area with climbing frames and sandpits, perfect for younger children.
Modern playground with climbing nets and swings, set beside the London Eye.
Watch the Changing of the Horse Guards and meet the Queen’s mounted soldiers.
See London from land and water on an amphibious vehicle tour departing near the Abbey.
Kids can try on uniforms and learn about the Queen’s guards in this interactive museum.
Celebrate the monarch’s official birthday with a grand military parade on Horse Guards Parade, featuring bands and ceremonial troops.
Attend carol services and festive concerts in the Abbey’s atmospheric nave during December.
Watch London’s famous fireworks over the Thames, with prime viewing near Westminster Bridge.
Join the national service at the Cenotaph on Whitehall, with military parades and wreath-laying.
Cheer on runners as they pass through Westminster and along the Thames Embankment.
Modern shopping and dining complex with high-street brands, cafés, and rooftop gardens near Victoria Station.
Bustling street lined with shops, bakeries, and fashion retailers, perfect for a quick shopping break.
Traditional weekday market with food stalls, flowers, and local goods, popular with office workers.
Upmarket shopping and dining destination with boutiques and international restaurants.
Historic market hall with designer shops, street performers, and artisanal goods, a short walk or tube ride away.
London’s iconic shopping boulevard, home to flagship stores and festive lights, easily reached by tube.
Path: Westminster Abbey → Parliament Square → Houses of Parliament → quick café stop
Alternative: If the Abbey is busy, start with St James’s Park for a peaceful stroll.
Path: Westminster Abbey → Churchill War Rooms → St James’s Park → Buckingham Palace
Alternative: If Churchill War Rooms is full, visit The Guards Museum instead.
Path: Westminster Abbey → Parliament Square → Churchill War Rooms → St James’s Park → Buckingham Palace → National Gallery → Covent Garden
Alternative: Swap Covent Garden for Regent Street if you prefer high-street shopping.
Path: Westminster Abbey → South Bank walk → London Eye at night → dinner
Alternative: Catch a West End show instead of the London Eye.
Path: St James’s Park Playground → SEA LIFE London Aquarium → Jubilee Gardens Playground
Alternative: Add a ride on the London Eye for a fun finale.
Path: Westminster Abbey → St James’s Park → dinner at The Cinnamon Club → London Eye at sunset
Alternative: Take a Thames river cruise for a romantic evening.
Yes, the area is well-lit and busy into the evening, especially around Parliament Square and the South Bank. Stick to main roads and avoid deserted alleys late at night.
Absolutely. The district is flat, with wide pavements and pedestrian crossings. Most major attractions, parks, and cafés are within a 15-minute walk.
The Cellarium Café inside the Abbey, The Red Lion pub, and St James’s Park are local favorites for food, drinks, and relaxation.
St James’s Park is the top choice for a picnic, with lakeside benches, lawns, and views of Buckingham Palace and the Abbey.
Parliament Square offers classic Abbey shots, while the Blue Bridge in St James’s Park frames the Abbey with city views. Westminster Bridge is ideal for Abbey and Big Ben photos.
You can stroll Parliament Square, relax in St James’s Park, watch the Changing of the Guard, and explore Whitehall’s monuments—all for free.
Try The Cellarium Café, The Red Lion, The Cinnamon Club, and St Stephen’s Tavern for a range of British and international cuisine.
Visit SEA LIFE London Aquarium, play in St James’s Park, watch the Changing of the Horse Guards, or ride the London Eye for family fun.
Head to the Churchill War Rooms, The Queen’s Gallery, or the National Gallery for indoor culture and history.
There are no lockers at the Abbey, but Victoria Station (10 min walk) offers left luggage services.
Westminster station (Jubilee, District, Circle lines) is the closest, just a 2-minute walk from the Abbey.
Dogs are welcome in St James’s Park and Victoria Tower Gardens but not inside the Abbey or most museums.
Yes, the London City Pass includes entry to Churchill War Rooms, Buckingham Palace, and more nearby attractions.
Victoria Street, Cardinal Place, and Strutton Ground Market are all within a 10-minute walk for shopping and food.
Westminster Bridge and Parliament Square are beautifully lit at night, offering great views of the Abbey and Big Ben.
The Supreme Court’s free exhibitions and the Churchill War Rooms’ underground tunnels are lesser-known highlights.
Weekday mornings before 10 am or late afternoons after 3 pm are typically quieter.
Don’t miss Trooping the Colour in June, Christmas carol services at the Abbey, and New Year’s Eve fireworks on the Thames.
