Secret corridors in a wartime bunker, the coronation church of Westminster Abbey and pelicans in the city park show how diverse Westminster is. Here, you can explore history in political and religious spaces, and nature in the parks. The different places offer you different perspectives on the destination—from parliamentary proceedings to the birdlife by the lake.
Spaces, rituals and political history
Westminster Abbey has been the coronation church since 1066 and the final resting place of more than 3,000 prominent Britons. A particularly precious and famous piece of furniture from the Abbey is on display for visitors; it has been at the centre of coronations for more than 700 years. These two details tell, in different ways, of the role the Abbey plays in coronations and British history.
At the Palace of Westminster, visitors can explore Westminster Hall, the House of Commons, the House of Lords and the areas in between. This is distinct from observing parliamentary business: in the House of Commons and the House of Lords, you can follow debates and committee meetings. Access may depend on parliamentary rules and security measures; check the current visitor information in advance.
At the Churchill War Rooms, you can visit the secret corridors of the British wartime bunker and learn how it worked inside. This look at the bunker’s rooms offers a different historical perspective alongside a visit to political institutions. Access and exhibitions may change, so it is advisable to check the latest visitor information.
The Household Cavalry Museum also offers a glimpse into how an institution operates: through a special glass screen, you can watch soldiers at work; there are also exhibitions, artefacts and interactive displays. The Changing of the King’s Life Guard takes place at Horse Guards Parade on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 11 am. If this timing is important for your plans, check the current schedule.
Westminster Cathedral offers another architectural discovery. Its Byzantine interior combines more than 100 different types of marble with mosaics. Admission is free, and the cathedral is open daily; access information may change. Volunteers from the Guild of St John Southworth offer short tours of the main areas. Tour arrangements may also change, so it is worth checking the latest information before your visit.
Parks, waterbirds and paths
Westminster has more than 80 parks and open spaces; 28 of them have Green Flag status. In St James’s Park, the focus is particularly on the lake and its wildlife: it is home to many animals, including more than 40 species of waterbirds. Pelicans have lived in the park for more than 350 years and can often be seen swimming, preening and sunbathing on the lake.
The reed beds in St James’s Park are important protected habitats. They support biodiversity, filter pollutants and oxygenate the lake water. At the eastern end of the lake is Duck Island, a nature reserve and a protected area and breeding ground for wildfowl and other birds. The same lake therefore offers both opportunities for wildlife watching and a chance to focus on the importance of habitats.
Other parks have their own distinctive features. The Green Park has shady avenues lined with mature trees and extensive grassy areas. The Memorial Gates commemorate five million people from India, Africa and the Caribbean who served in two world wars. In Hyde Park, the Rose Garden combines roses and perennial plantings in seasonal flower beds; their appearance varies with the time of year. You can hire a boat on the Serpentine Lake. Check whether boat hire is currently available before your visit.
Ceremonial events are also part of the parks’ history: The Mall in St James’s Park is a grand ceremonial avenue in honour of Queen Victoria, where many historic royal processions have taken place. The Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Walk offers another way to experience several park landscapes. The seven-mile route is marked by 90 plaques set into the ground and passes through St James’s Park, The Green Park, Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens.
For a general sense of the area: in the City of Westminster, the southern boundary runs along the River Thames, roughly between Vauxhall Bridge and Waterloo Bridge. The number of parks and Green Flag awards may change; check the latest information if this is important to your choice.
Discover more destinations: Mayfair, Westminster, Hillingdon, Lambeth, Havering, Islington, Greenwich, Croydon.
For the broader travel overview: Greater London.
