Category: Cheap days out
Why you should visit Westminster Abbey
When you think of London, images of red double-decker buses, the iconic Big Ben, and the grandeur of Buckingham Palace might spring to mind. But nestled in the heart of the city lies a place that’s been at the center of British history for over a thousand years—Westminster Abbey. It’s not just a church; it’s a living, breathing monument to the stories, traditions, and people that have shaped the United Kingdom. So why should you visit? Let me take you on a journey to uncover what makes this place so special.
Imagine standing in a place where kings and queens have been crowned for nearly 1,000 years. That’s Westminster Abbey. The Abbey’s story began around 960 AD as a Benedictine monastery, but it was King Edward the Confessor who put it on the map when he rebuilt it in 1045. Since then, it has been the stage for some of Britain’s most defining moments—from William the Conqueror’s coronation in 1066 to modern royal weddings like that of Prince William and Kate Middleton.
But it’s not just about royalty. The Abbey is also a resting place for over 3,300 notable figures. Walking through its hallowed halls feels like flipping through a history book brought to life. You’ll find the tombs of literary greats like Geoffrey Chaucer and Charles Dickens in Poet’s Corner, alongside memorials to scientists like Isaac Newton and Charles Darwin. It’s humbling to think about how many brilliant minds and influential leaders are commemorated here.
Even if history isn’t your thing, Westminster Abbey is worth visiting just for its jaw-dropping architecture. The Gothic design is nothing short of breathtaking. Picture this: soaring ceilings supported by intricate flying buttresses, colourful stained glass windows that catch the sunlight just right, and detailed carvings that tell stories from centuries ago.
One highlight is the Henry VII Lady Chapel, famous for its delicate fan-vaulted ceiling—a masterpiece of medieval craftsmanship. And don’t miss the Cosmati Pavement near the High Altar. This mosaic floor, made of colourful stones and glass, dates back to 1268 and has been part of every coronation since.
