Westminster Abbey

Westminster Abbey is truly an awe-inspiring and unique place to visit. Since 960AD this site has been home to a place of worship and the current building as it stands is the labour of love of King Henry III.

At the eastern end of the Abbey's stunning Lady Chapel, commissioned by Henry VII, is the RAF chapel dedicated to the men of the Royal Air Force who died in the Battle of Britain between July and October 1940. The captivating Battle of Britain memorial stained-glass window in this chapel, by Hugh Easton, contains the badges of the fighter squadrons that took part in the Battle and, in four panels, are shown visions which symbolise the Redemption.

A Service of Thanksgiving for the victory gained in the Battle of Britain has been held annually at Westminster Abbey since 1944. Prime Minister Winston Churchill said of these men on 20th August 1940, ‘The gratitude of every home in our Island, in our Empire, and indeed throughout the world, except in the abodes of the guilty, goes out to the British airmen, who, undaunted by odds, unwearied in their constant challenge and mortal danger, are turning the tide of the world war by their prowess and devotion. Never in the field of human conflict was so much owed by so many to so few’.

Westminster Abbey has over 1,000 years of history for visitors to explore and enjoy - from the grand, imposing burial tombs of Elizabeth I and Mary, Queen of Scots, to Poets' Corner and our fantastic new Queen's Diamond Jubilee Galleries - 52 feet high above the Abbey floor in the newly restored triforium space. It is open Monday-Saturday most weeks, though visitors are advised to always check our opening times online before planning their trip. In half-term and school holidays they have full programmes of activities on offer for family visitors. There's something for everyone so visit Westminster Abbey today and discover where history happens!