Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Westminster and Around
Westminster is about indulging in old architectural splendor, the famous borough home to
all the living monuments you've seen on the TV screen. Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, the
Houses of Parliament; nowhere is England's historical grandeur so evocatively showcased.
For over 1000 years Westminster has been the seat of both parliament and royalty. It's a place
to visit once in a lifetime, although you're unlikely to come back once you've ticked off the
renowned attractions. Not everything is open to the public but it's undeniably attractive and
dazzling.
Travel Essentials
It's impossible to miss The Palace of Westminster, towering over the Thames and drawing
admiring glances from the most grumpy of London residents. This area is easy to navigate,
with the landmarks usually visible in the distance. Westminster has it's own Underground
Station and is great for most of the essential experiences listed below. You can also use Em-
bankment or Green Park. These three stations mean you've got six different Underground
lines to choose from.
Essential Experiences
•
The seat of the UK government dominates the Thames, the
Palace of West-
minster
twinkling from a distance and even more regal from up close. It's
best photographed from the South side of the river, so cross the bridge for the
iconic shots. During weekends, £15 tours take you inside the Palace, offering
a wondrous glimpse at one of Europe's finest buildings.
•
At the far end of the palace is
Westminster Abbey
, a splendidly ancient relic
that still emanates choral choir singing and religious worship. This is where
British monarchs get crowned, and then buried many years later. It's free to
enter during a church service, but if you want to visit the museum and crypt
tickets cost £18. At the far eastern end of the abbey is
Henry VII's Chapel
,
oozing gothic delight and causing most people to gasp in awe. If you're debat-
ing between Westminster Abbey and St Paul's, the former has more intricate
artistic detail, the latter has the views and grandeur.
