Westminster Abbey
"Westminster Abbey is a 1,000-year-old Gothic masterpiece where British monarchs are crowned, married, and buried. It's the setting for royal weddings (William and Kate, 2011) and coronations (Charles III, 2023). Over 3,000 notable Britons are buried here, including Newton, Darwin, Dickens, and monarchs dating back centuries. The architecture is breathtaking."
Logistics
Expensive
Vibe
Sacred, grand
Duration
2 hours
Best For
History buffs
The Backstory
Founded in 960 AD, rebuilt by Edward the Confessor in 1065. Every monarch since William the Conqueror (1066) has been crowned here except two. The current Gothic structure mostly dates from 1245 onwards. Poets' Corner contains graves and memorials of Britain's greatest writers.
Local Secret
"Book tickets online in advance—queues are brutal. Audio guide is included and excellent. Go first thing at opening (9:30am) or late afternoon for thinner crowds. Free entry to evening prayers (5pm weekdays) if you're willing to sit through the service. Photography is forbidden inside."