Westminster Abbey (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Westminster Abbey?
What makes it 80% Kids-Friendly: A free paper trail, school-holiday craft days, and no extra charge for under-18s in the Galleries engage children, yet the solemn setting, lack of play space, and long periods standing may test under-12 stamina.
Positives:
- Free child access: Kids under 18 enter the Abbey and galleries for free with your ticket.
- Calm reflection spots: Quiet chapels give families a break from crowds mid-visit.
Challenges:
- Security queue: Plan extra time for bag checks at peak hours.
- Narrow passageways: Strollers can be tricky in busy aisles and on steps.
- Limited seating: Benches fill up fast during services and recitals.
What is Westminster Abbey?
- An iconic Gothic abbey church on the north bank of the River Thames that has hosted every English and British coronation since 1066
- A collegiate church built between the 13th and 16th centuries, distinguished by soaring vaulted ceilings, intricate stone carvings and a monumental west façade
- A royal mausoleum and national pantheon, containing the tombs of monarchs, poets, scientists and statesmen such as Isaac Newton, Charles Darwin and Geoffrey Chaucer
What is so special about Westminster Abbey for with kids?
- Pick up the free Family Trail for kids
- Explore the Diamond Jubilee Galleries puzzle trail
- Use multimedia guides for self-paced learning
- Relax with a picnic in the Cloisters
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time for the Family Trail, galleries visit and a picnic break without rushing young children.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Westminster Abbey
Free Family Trail:
Pick up a paper trail guide at arrival to lead kids through key highlights.
Tip: Collect your free badge in the shop when kids finish the trail.
Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Galleries Trail:
Solve puzzles and spot objects in the 13th-century triforium.
Tip: Book timed tickets online and plan it for mid-visit when kids are warmed up.
Self-guided Multimedia Tour:
Use the included multimedia guide in 14 languages to explore the Nave, Cloisters and Chapter House.
Tip: Share headphones and take turns so kids can listen to child-friendly clips.
Cloister Picnic & Kiosk:
Enjoy a packed lunch in the covered Cloisters or grab snacks from the kiosk.
Tip: Arrive early to find a quiet corner and rest little feet.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Westminster Abbey
- Book in advance: Reserve entry and gallery slots online to skip long lines.
- Start early: Arrive at opening to explore the Abbey before crowds gather.
- Pack light snacks: Bring small treats for kids to nibble between exhibits.
Reviews of Westminster Abbey
BANGKOKBANKS
Good to go once. History galore and tradition you can feel. Crowds well managed, quiet and free headphones 🎧 for audio tour if you wish. Takes minimum 1 hour or longer. Nice gift shop as you exit.
omer erbas
It is a bit prices first of all. Overall it is a church, but with a rich history. So whether you want to pay 20 pounds to get in will depend on your interests. If you like history, it may be worth a visit. It takes about an hour or so to visit this place. Recommendation point is 3.5/5
Angela Criscola
If you are looking for an old building with all the vibes – this is it. I wasn’t really feeling London until we visited here. You don’t have to be religious or anything. The architecture, the artwork involved in carving places where important members of society and royalty are entombed for the rest of their lives is amazing. Even the Abbots burial spots are extremely interesting. The poets corner ...
Linda McLoon
This is a "must-visit" when you are in London. Get online and reserve a time to visit if you want to go inside. It is free, but you may not be able to enter without doing this in advance. This is a stunning building, inside and out, and it has so much history in its 1000 years. Just standing outside is breathtaking. We attended evensong, for which you don't need tickets. It is a religious service...
John Cardinale
Beautiful church It's no longer Catholic (that stopped a long time ago) and it's kept for the royal family for the most part, but it's open to the public to buy tickets and see. It is full of great history and has some amazing work. Beautiful art, ceilings, and final resting spots of very famous English people If you go with a tour group you can go into a different entrance
When is the best time to visit Westminster Abbey (London, United Kingdom)?
Family events in the College Garden run on summer Saturdays and school holidays. Book these free slots online several weeks ahead.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Adult Abbey Entry (with multimedia guide) | GBP 62 |
| Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Galleries tickets | GBP 10 |
| Snacks from kiosk | GBP 15 |
| Total Estimated | GBP 87 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Westminster Abbey
Address: Dean's Yard, London SW1P 3PA, UK
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