Westminster Abbey

Interesting facts

1. 1

   More than 3,300 people are buried or commemorated within the Abbey, including Isaac Newton, Charles Dickens, and Stephen Hawking.

2. 2

   The Cosmati pavement in front of the High Altar is an intricate 13th-century floor mosaic made of stone and glass imported from Italy.

3. 3

   The Abbey holds the only medieval royal funeral effigies surviving in Britain, used during historical funerary processions.

4. 4

   The grave of the Unknown Warrior honors unidentified service members killed during the First World War.

5. 5

   Scientists' Corner contains the graves of Charles Darwin and Sir Isaac Newton, positioned near each other.

6. 6

   The Abbey's library and muniment room contain records dating back to the 11th century.

7. 7

   The fan-vaulted ceiling in the Henry VII Chapel is considered one of the finest examples of late Perpendicular Gothic architecture.

8. 8

   The Abbey houses the remains of 17 British monarchs.

9. 9

   The Cloisters feature the remains of monks and notable figures from the Abbey's long history.

10. 10

    There are over 450 monuments and wall tablets throughout the building.

Overview

Westminster Abbey is a royal church serving as the site of every British coronation since 1066. The current Gothic structure was primarily commissioned by Henry III in 1245 and features pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and flying buttresses. It serves as the burial place for over 3,300 notable individuals, including monarchs, scientists, and writers. The Abbey remains an active place of worship with daily services held throughout the year. It houses the Coronation Chair, which has been used for royal investitures since 1308. Significant royal events, including the 1953 coronation and numerous royal weddings, have taken place within its walls. The interior features the Lady Chapel, noted for its intricate fan-vaulted ceiling. It is a Royal Peculiar, meaning it is exempt from the jurisdiction of any bishop and is answerable directly to the Sovereign.

Insider tips

• Use the provided multimedia guide to understand the historical context of the various chapels and tombs.

• Check the official website for service schedules before arriving, as parts of the Abbey may be cordoned off for worship.

• Look for the graffiti left by 18th-century choirboys inside the cloisters.