With the coronation of King Charles III just around the corner, the country is buzzing with excitement and anticipation. The date of the coronation is May 6th 2023, and this historical moment is set to take place in the magnificent Westminster Abbey, a site that has played a crucial role in the coronation of many British monarchs.
So, if you’re looking to immerse yourself in the rich history of Westminster, we’re here to guide you through all the must-see attractions when you visit this iconic royal church, as well as the nearby British landmarks and exciting things to do in London.
From the fascinating architecture and intricate details of Westminster Abbey to the vibrant energy of the surrounding area, there’s so much to explore and discover. And with the upcoming coronation of King Charles III, there’s no better time to be visiting London.
Things to look out for when visiting Westminster Abbey
Westminster Abbey is the most famous abbey in London. The stunning London cathedral is an example of beautiful Gothic architecture, with its intricate carvings, soaring ceilings, and mesmerising stained-glass windows. Here are some of the things you won’t want to miss when exploring the Abbey during the King’s Coronation celebrations:
The Coronation Chair: An Iconic Symbol of Monarchy
The Coronation Chair is one of the most important artefacts in Westminster Abbey, as it has been used in every coronation ceremony since 1308. Be sure to take a closer look at this iconic symbol of the monarchy this coronation day.
The Lady Chapel: A Beautiful Place of Worship
The Lady Chapel is located at the eastern end of Westminster Abbey and is known for its stunning architecture and intricate details. Take a moment to admire the beautiful fan-vaulted ceiling and the colourful stained-glass windows.
The Tomb of Elizabeth I: A Regal Resting Place
The tomb of Elizabeth I is one of the most popular attractions in Westminster Abbey’s tombs. Located in the north aisle of the Lady Chapel, this regal resting place is a must-see for anyone interested in British history.
The Tomb of Mary I: A Controversial Queen
Mary I, also known as “Bloody Mary,” was a controversial queen who ruled England from 1553 to 1558. Her tomb, located in the south aisle of the Lady Chapel, is another fascinating site to explore inside Westminster Abbey.
Nearby British landmarks to visit in Westminster
Westminster Abbey is just one of the many iconic landmarks in this bustling part of London. If you’re visiting the Abbey, be sure to set aside some time to explore the other amazing things to do near Westminster.
One of the most famous landmarks in the area is Buckingham Palace, the official residence of the British monarch. Visitors can tour the palace’s magnificent state rooms, stroll through the beautiful gardens, and even watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony.
Other popular things to see in London include visiting the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben. These historic buildings, located on the banks of the River Thames, are home to the UK’s government. Take a guided tour of the Houses of Parliament to learn about the country’s political history and marvel at the intricate architecture of the building.
When you travel to London, there are plenty of other palaces and landmarks to visit. From the magnificent Tower of London to the grand Kensington Palace, there’s no shortage of incredible sights to see and great places to visit in the UK as a whole.
With so many things to do in Westminster and the rest of London, you’ll never run out of things to see.
Don’t miss out on the celebration! Book your trip with P&O Ferries and discover iconic landmarks.
FAQs
What to see in Westminster Abbey?
Westminster Abbey has a lot to see, including the Coronation Chair, the Lady Chapel, the tombs of Elizabeth I and Mary I, the Poet’s Corner, and much more. You can also attend a service or tour the abbey to learn about its fascinating history and architecture.
Who is buried in Westminster Abbey?
Many notable figures are buried in Westminster Abbey, including monarchs such as Queen Elizabeth I, Mary Queen of Scots, and King Henry V. Other famous figures buried there include Charles Darwin, Isaac Newton, and Charles Dickens, to name a few. Many memorials and monuments are dedicated to famous people who are not buried in the abbey.
What is Westminster Abbey?
Westminster Abbey is a historic church located in the City of Westminster, London. It is a world-renowned site of worship, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the location of many important ceremonies, including royal coronations, weddings, and funerals. The abbey also contains numerous tombs and monuments dedicated to famous figures from British history.
Who has been coronated at Westminster Abbey?
Many British monarchs have been coronated at Westminster Abbey, including Queen Elizabeth II, Queen Victoria, and King Edward VII, to name a few. Other notable figures who have been coronated at the abbey include King Richard III and King Henry VII. The upcoming coronation of King Charles III is also set to take place at Westminster Abbey.
