Unless you're visiting the abbey for individual prayer, you will need to buy a ticket to enter Westminster Abbey. As the abbey is a working church, it may be closed partially or completely for events or ceremonies. It is better that you check the abbey's schedule and pre-book your online tickets to ensure entry.

While you can physically turn up at Westminster Abbey and wait in line to buy a ticket, it is highly discouraged, especially during the peak tourist season. The Abbey is one of London's most popular landmarks, and the standby queue for "walk-up" tickets can often exceed two hours. To ensure entry and save time, it is strongly recommended to book a timed entry slot online in advance through the official website. Advance tickets are usually a few pounds cheaper than those bought at the door and allow you to use the "Pre-booked" entrance. However, keep in mind that the Abbey is a working church. If you wish to visit for worship or "Evensong," you can "just turn up" for free, but you will not be permitted to walk around the royal tombs, the Poets' Corner, or take photos; you will be directed straight to the seating area for the service. Always check the official calendar before visiting, as the Abbey often closes to tourists for special state events, royal commemorations, or liturgical celebrations that may not be widely publicized until a few days prior.