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Can I walk through Westminster?

WALK LONDON's Westminster Walk takes you past London's most important seats of Royal and Political power. On our free self-guided sightseeing tour you will see many of London's historic and prestigious landmarks, some dating back over a 1000 years.



Yes, you can absolutely walk through Westminster, and it is widely considered the best way to see London’s most iconic landmarks. A standard walking route often begins at Westminster Station, immediately bringing you face-to-face with Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament. From there, it is a short, scenic stroll across Parliament Square to Westminster Abbey. You can continue your walk down Whitehall, passing the guarded gates of Downing Street and the Cenotaph, eventually reaching Trafalgar Square. For a more leisurely "Royal Walk," you can head from the Abbey through St. James’s Park towards Buckingham Palace. While you can walk freely along the public streets and through the parks 24/7, remember that entering the landmarks themselves, such as the Abbey or the Houses of Parliament for a tour, requires a ticket and specific security screening. In 2026, walking through this historic heart of London remains a "must-do" experience, especially during the golden hour when the Portland stone of the buildings glows against the Thames.

People Also Ask

Is Westminster Abbey worth it? With its burial sites for kings, queens, writers, and scientists, its long, rich history, and its importance as a coronation site for English and British monarchs, Westminster Abbey is one of the most awe-inspiring churches in the world to visit.

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You don't necessarily need an itinerary to discover London's hidden gems. One of the best ways to see the city is on foot – there's always something interesting around every corner. There are plenty of walking tours for those who prefer a more organised approach.

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It is not necessary to book or buy tickets for Westminster cathedral. It is open to the public at all times and there is no entrance fee.

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Admissions Rate: 72.5% This tells you how competitive the school is and how serious their requirements are. The acceptance rate at Westminster is 72.5%. For every 100 applicants, 73 are admitted.

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Westminster Abbey is open every day, but access to some spaces may be restricted if there are church services. Also, hours may be reduced accordingly. Please note: Westminster Abbey will be closed to visitors from 25 April until 7 May 2023 to prepare for the King's Coronation.

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Visitors will be able to book a maximum of eight tickets per person, depending on availability. The Big Ben tour is not suitable for everyone. Visitors must be aged 11 and over and be comfortable climbing 334 steps and experiencing high noise levels from the clock mechanism and bells - earplugs will be provided.

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Yes, visitors may take personal photographs whilst in Westminster Abbey. Please don't use flash, selfie sticks, or tripods. You cannot take video recordings. During services, you cannot take photos.

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There is no formal dress code required to enter the Palace. Toilets and baby-care facilities are located in the garden, this is at the end of the route through the Palace. There are no toilet facilities at the start of the visitor route.

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