Overview
Westminster is a historic area in London known for its political significance and iconic landmarks. It houses the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, and Big Ben, making it a must-visit for history and architecture enthusiasts.
Westminster is the center of the UK government and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its historical and cultural importance.
Location
Address
Coordinates: 51.49746394, -0.1368863863
Neighborhood: Westminster
Coordinates
51.497464, -0.136886
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
April-May, September-October
Best Time of Day
Early morning
fewer crowds and better light for photography
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
mild to cool
- • flower displays in St. James's Park
- • spring blooms
summer
warm to hot
- • long daylight hours
- • outdoor concerts
autumn
cool and crisp
- • fall colors in nearby parks
- • harvest festivals
winter
cold and rainy
- • Christmas markets
- • holiday lights
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Book tickets in advance for popular attractions
- Dress appropriately for church visits
- Check for any scheduled protests or events
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: moderate (lots of walking)
- • be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas
Medical facilities: first aid available at major attractions
Payment Information
Accepted
credit/debit cards, cash
Currency
British Pound (GBP)
Typical Costs
Dress Code
modest attire for Westminster Abbey (shoulders and knees covered), comfortable shoes for walking, walking shoes or sneakers, hats in Westminster Abbey, inappropriate or revealing clothing
Booking Tips
- • at least 2 weeks for popular attractions
- • official websites (e.g., Westminster Abbey, Houses of Parliament)
- • varies by attraction, check when booking
- • available for most major attractions
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Visit London
Size: 50 MB
Features: interactive map, ticket booking, attraction info, event listings
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, nearby cafes
Charging Stations: available in most major attractions and cafes
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: London Heathrow Airport (LHR)
Distance: 25 km
Travel Time: 45 minutes to 1 hour
From City Center
Distance: various, depending on starting point
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Westminster is the heart of London's history and politics, with a unique atmosphere and stunning architecture.
Historical Significance: Westminster has been the seat of the English and later the British government for over a thousand years, hosting significant historical events and figures.
Insider Tips
- Visit Westminster Abbey early in the morning for a peaceful experience
- The best views of Big Ben are from the opposite side of the Thames
- Local cafes often offer better prices than those near major attractions
Local Recommendations
- • Try a traditional afternoon tea at a local cafe
- • Visit the nearby Churchill War Rooms for a deeper historical experience
- • Walk along the South Bank for great views and fewer tourists
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: English, French, Spanish, German
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Westminster Bridge
Best Time: sunset
Tips: include the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben
Result: iconic London skyline shot
Victoria Tower Gardens
Best Time: golden hour
Tips: use the river as a foreground
Result: scenic riverside photos
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Big Ben
Distance: 200m
Walking: 3 min
Type: Landmark
London Eye
Distance: 1km
Walking: 15 min
Type: Observation Wheel
Buckingham Palace
Distance: 1km
Walking: 15 min
Type: Royal Palace
St. James's Park
Distance: 500m
Walking: 7 min
Type: Park
Reviews
Based on 25,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Book tickets in advance"
- "Visit early to avoid crowds"
- "Check out the nearby Churchill War Rooms"
Contact Information
Related Tours & Activities (24)
London Afternoon Tea Bus with Panoramic Tour
Westminster Abbey Entrance Ticket with Options
Skip the Line Tower of London & Westminster Tour and River Cruise
Tower of London: Crown Jewels & Beefeater Opening Ceremony
London Day Tour with a Local Guide: Private & Tailored to Your Interests
London Afternoon Tea Bus and Panoramic Tour on Lower Deck
Skip the Line Parliament & Westminster Abbey Fully-Guided Tour
Westminster Abbey's Audio Tour with Flexible Admission
London Vintage Bus Tour with Cream Tea at Harrods
The History of London City Center Exclusive Guided Walking Tour
Private London Kickstart City Tour
London Private Walking Tour: Notting Hill, Highlights & Markets
Westminster Abbey Guided Private Tour
Westminster Abbey & St. Paul's Cathedral Flex. Ticket with Audio
Best of Westminster Abbey with Upper Gallery & Buckingham Palace
Semi-Private WW2 Churchill in Westminster & War Rooms entry
Private London Evening Tour by Car
London Sunset Bike Tour
Classic London Highlights Walking Tour
Houses of Parliament Ticket & Political London Audio Guide
Private Custom London Tour with a Local: Highlights & Hidden Gems
6 hour London Private Tour, with your own Black Cab Tour Guide
London Full-Day Private Tour with Westminster Abbey Tickets
Private London Panoramic Tour by Car with Pick Up From Your Hotel
Quick Info
Available Tours
719
Rating
4.7 / 5.0
Reviews
25,000
Adult Entry
£27 (Westminster Abbey), varies by attraction