Westminster

The Basics

Explore the region on an immersive walking tour, or combine your visit with other highlights, taking advantage of bike, bus, or private tours to cover several attractions in one day. Discover Westminster’s movie locations on a Sherlock, James Bond, or Harry Potter-themed excursion, or tour an iconic landmark, such as Buckingham Palace. Alternatively, Thames cruises and photography tours can help you capture scenic views of the area.

Things to Know Before You Go

• A visit to Westminster is a must for history fans, or anyone looking for classic London views.

• As many of the landmarks are government or royal buildings, expect airport-style security checks upon entering.

• Most of Westminster’s attractions are wheelchair-accessible, though some of the old buildings do have areas of restricted access to wheelchair users.

How to Get There

Westminster has its own Underground station, providing easy access to most of the district’s attractions. St. James’s Park is also nearby, while Victoria and Charing Cross main stations are a 20-minute walk away. Many local and hop-on hop-off buses also serve the area.

When to Get There

Westminster is striking at any time of year, but Westminster Abbey’s Christmas carol services provide a particularly lovely soundtrack to your sightseeing. The district is one of London’s major attractions, so avoid the crowds by setting out early or visiting late in the day.

London Heritage Sites

The Westminster district is home to roughly 1,100 nationally listed landmarks, while the Palace of Westminster itself is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Kew’s Royal Botanic Gardens, the Tower of London, and Maritime Greenwich are also recognized by UNESCO for their cultural importance, and all provide fascinating insight into British national heritage.

What guided tours are available for Westminster?

Most London sightseeing tours include Westminster on their itineraries as the neighborhood is home to classic capital sights like Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, and Westminster Abbey. To go inside the abbey, though, look for a tour that specifically includes a ticket, as many tours only offer a pass-by glance.

What historic landmarks can I see in Westminster?

This central London nook is home to a cluster of historical landmarks. Classic sights for photos include Big Ben and the Elizabeth Tower, the River Thames, and Westminster Abbey, while top Westminster visitor attractions include the Churchill War Rooms and, of course, Buckingham Palace, the King’s official London residence.

What special events and ceremonies take place in Westminster?

Many state, royal, and military ceremonies occur in Westminster Abbey, such as Commonwealth Day services, state funerals, royal weddings, and coronations of the new kings and queens. Aside from events at the abbey, the City of Westminster also features on the route of the popular London New Year’s Day Parade.

How do I get to Westminster from popular London attractions?

Westminster is within walking distance of many top London attractions. On the same side of the river, sites within a 15-minute stroll include Tate Britain, Mayfair’s Ritz Hotel, the National Gallery, and Trafalgar Square, while across Westminster Bridge lies the Lastminute.com London Eye, the London Aquarium, and the bustling Southbank.

Can visitors attend sessions in the Houses of Parliament?

Visitors can take House of Parliament tours or attend debates by sitting in the public galleries of the House of Commons or the House of Lords. Those eager to see the UK’s democracy in action can ask about entry at the Cromwell Street entrance or check an official parliamentary website to plan visits.

Are there any family-friendly activities or attractions in Westminster?

Unless your kids are interested in British politics, they might be inclined to drag their feet around Westminster. While the neighborhood isn’t known as a hotbed of family-friendly fun, the London Aquarium and Hyde Park are both nearby and hop-on, hop-off sightseeing buses offer memorable Westminster sightseeing for adults and kids alike.

Ways to explore

You can discover Westminster’s highlights on many city walking tours or combine a visit with other London attractions on excursions by bike or bus. Alternatively, Thames cruises, photography tours, and hop-on hop-off buses offer scenic views and flexibility, or self-guided scavenger hunts and audio tours provide an independent way to explore using your smartphone. While in Westminster, don’t miss seeing Buckingham Palace and watching the Changing of the Guard ceremony.

Accessibility

Many of Westminster’s attractions, such as Westminster Abbey, are wheelchair accessible, but it’s best to check each venue individually.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Power bank, camera, refillable water bottle

What to wear

Comfortable shoes, layers

Not allowed

Drones, littering, large luggage at certain attractions

Amenities

Bars, restaurants, ATMs, restrooms

Address

Westminster is easily accessible by public transport and has its own tube station. St. James’s Park, Victoria, and Charing Cross are other stations within easy walking distance. Numerous bus routes and hop-on hop-off buses also serve the area.

Driving

Driving to Westminster can be challenging due to heavy traffic and limited, expensive parking. To avoid the hassle of parking, it’s better to use public transport or opt for a cab or rideshare service.

Public transportation

Take the Jubilee, Circle and District tube lines to Westminster station. Mainline trains arrive at Victoria and Charing Cross. Many buses serve the area, including routes 3, 11, 12, 24, 148, and C10.

Best times to visit

If you visit Westminster on weekdays, watch out for the commuter rush—it’s typically busiest from 7:30am to 9:30am and 5pm to 7pm. Come outside these times for a less hectic experience.

Best days to visit

Aim for a weekday morning, such as Monday through Thursday, to avoid the weekend crowds.

Best months to visit

Westminster is beautiful year-round, but December is particularly magical with the Christmas lights. Similarly, a stroll along the Thames and through St. James’s Park is lovely in July and August.

Special events

If you can get to Westminster in December, then Christmas events at Westminster Abbey, such as its carol concerts, are particularly atmospheric.