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When I first stepped into Westminster Abbey, I was completely unprepared for how alive this place feels, despite being centuries old and filled with tombs. Yes, there’s the expected grandeur and gothic spires. But the soul of the Abbey? That’s in its stories - whispers of monarchs, poets, scientists, and the occasional royal scandal echoing through its cloisters.
Whether it’s your first time in London or your fifth, I always tell friends: don’t just visit Westminster Abbey. Listen to it. Better yet, walk its history with the StoryHunt audio walk through Westminster - it’s immersive, witty, and somehow manages to bring centuries of drama to life in your ears.
Let’s step into the layers of this incredible site and uncover its secrets.
What is the story behind Westminster Abbey?
You can't talk about London without mentioning Westminster Abbey. This isn’t just a church - it’s a stage where Britain’s most dramatic moments have played out.
Founded by Edward the Confessor in 1045 (yes, that old), the Abbey was built on an ancient sacred site. What you see today, though, is mainly the result of Henry III’s 13th-century Gothic makeover - he wanted something to rival the French cathedrals and leave a royal legacy. And he succeeded.
Since William the Conqueror’s coronation in 1066, every British monarch (except Edward V and Edward VIII) has been crowned here. That’s a streak longer than most dynasties. And coronations are just the start: over 3,300 people are buried here, from kings to scientists, poets to politicians.
And it’s not all dry history. There’s plenty of royal intrigue (looking at you, Henry VIII), scandal, romance, and even a dash of ghost lore if you listen closely.
Want to hear these tales come to life as you walk? Try the Central London audio walk on StoryHunt.
Is anyone buried under the floor at Westminster Abbey?
Oh yes, lots of people. And not just under the floor, but all around you.
The Abbey is basically a who's who of British history. In fact, if you ever wondered, “Who is buried at Westminster Abbey?”, the answer is: probably someone you studied in school.
Here are a few names:
- Isaac Newton – Yes, the apple guy. Buried beneath a grand monument in the nave.
- Charles Darwin – Just a few steps away from Newton. Evolution meets gravity.
- Elizabeth I & Mary Queen of Scots – Fierce rivals, but resting not too far apart.
- Geoffrey Chaucer – The first poet in Poets’ Corner, where you’ll also find memorials to Shakespeare, Dickens, and more.
- Stephen Hawking – Buried near Newton. Science keeps good company here.
Some of the tombstones are so worn down, you’ll walk over them without noticing - but you’re walking across history. Literally.
Curious about the eerie elegance of the Abbey's burial traditions? The StoryHunt tour brings that aspect to life with audio narration that’s both reverent and riveting.
Did Princess Diana get married at Westminster Abbey?
Nope - though many assume she did!
Princess Diana and Prince Charles were actually married at St. Paul’s Cathedral in 1981. The choice was partly for size, as St. Paul’s could seat more guests (2,000+), and they wanted something a bit less traditional.
However, Diana’s funeral was held at Westminster Abbey in 1997, and it’s a moment etched into collective memory. The image of her brother’s speech and the sea of flowers outside the Abbey still hits hard today.
In that way, the Abbey became forever linked to her story - especially if you follow the Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Walk nearby.
Can anyone walk into Westminster Abbey?
Yes - and no.
Visitors are welcome, but unlike a typical cathedral, Westminster Abbey isn’t free to enter unless you’re attending a service (which is open to the public).
Here’s what you need to know:
- Tickets cost around £30 for adults (check the official Abbey site for current pricing).
- Opening hours vary and may close for special events or royal occasions.
- Early morning and late afternoon tend to be quieter if you want to beat the crowds.
- You can attend Evensong or Sunday services for free, but sightseeing during these services isn’t allowed.
Trust me, it’s worth paying the entry. And for a more memorable visit, pair your entrance with the StoryHunt audio tour of Westminster - you’ll walk in like a tourist, but leave feeling like a time traveller.
What is the difference between Westminster Cathedral and Westminster Abbey?
Great question. They’re not the same place - and they’re often confused.
Westminster Abbey is located near Houses of Parliament, while Westminster Cathedral is located on Victoria Street. Westminster Abbey was founded in 960’s, while Westminster Cathedral was built in 1903. Westminster Abbey is Anglican (Church of England), while Westminster Cathedral is Roman Catholic. And Westminster Abbey is the site of royal coronation and burials, while Westminster Cathedral is an active parish cathedral.
So if you're looking for royal ceremonies and medieval architecture, go to the Abbey. If you're interested in Byzantine mosaics and Catholic services, visit the Cathedral.
Both are beautiful in their own way, but only one has Newton, Darwin, and Dickens under its floorboards.
Is it worth seeing Westminster Abbey?
Absolutely. If you only visit one church in London, make it this one.
Here’s why I always recommend it:
- Rich history that’s both academic and emotional.
- Incredible architecture - stained glass, vaulted ceilings, and the Henry VII Lady Chapel will have your jaw on the floor.
- Famous tombs that give you goosebumps just being near them.
- Royal connection - where else can you walk in the same aisle kings, queens, and prime ministers have?
And with the StoryHunt immersive audio walk, you don’t need a guidebook or a group. You’ll wander freely, yet never miss the context.
What else is nearby Westminster Abbey?
Westminster isn’t just a historical pit stop - it’s a launchpad into London’s greatest hits. Here’s what’s around the corner (and featured in the same audio walk by StoryHunt):
- Houses of Parliament & Big Ben: Stand beneath the Gothic spires and listen for Big Ben’s iconic chime (technically the bell inside the tower, not the tower itself!). A British icon that never gets old.
- Westminster Bridge: A perfect photo op with views of the London Eye and the Thames. Bonus points if you time it at sunset.
- Churchill War Rooms: Underground and intense - this was Churchill’s WWII bunker. A must for history buffs. Book in advance via the Imperial War Museums site.
- Trafalgar Square & The National Gallery: An easy 10-minute walk to admire Nelson’s Column, meet the lions, and pop into the National Gallery - home to Van Gogh, Turner, and da Vinci, for free.
Don’t rush Westminster Abbey. Come with curiosity, a good pair of shoes, and maybe headphones tuned to StoryHunt. Because some stories deserve to be walked, not just read.
