Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
now-fragmented Westminster Retable, which decorated the high altar in 1270, is the old-
est surviving altarpiece in England. The image of Christ in the central panel is time-worn,
but it retains the essentials: his face, the orb of power, and his blessing hand. Beyond the
Abbey Museum, passageways lead to the Little Cloister and picturesque College Garden
(open Tue-Thu).
As you return to the church, look back through the cloister courtyard to the church
exterior, and meditate on the
flying buttresses.
These stone bridges that push in on the
church walls allowed Gothic architects to build so high.
If you need a bite or drink, or the WC, head for the abbey café.
• Go back into the church for the last stop.
Coronation Chair
A gold-painted oak chair waits here under a regal canopy for the next coronation. For
every English coronation since 1308 (except two), it's been moved to its spot before the
high altar to receive the royal buttocks. The chair's legs rest on lions, England's symbol.
