Westminster Abbey and Archive

Our event begins with an hour long visit to the Library and Archive, commonly known as the 'Munuments'. The books and manuscripts in the historic Library of the Dean and Chapter date from the 16th century. The archives go back to the tenth century, when the Abbey was founded as a monastery.

We'll then explore the Abbey followed by Queen Elizabeth's Diamond Jubilee Galleries, opened for the first time in 2018. A medieval space over 50 feet in the air giving a magnificent view of the Abbey interior. Essentially a staggering museum display of centuries of historic treasure including prized manuscripts, jewels, furniture and funeral effigies of late medieval monarchs.

The Abbey itself is the last resting place of significant English Kings and Queens including its founder Edward the Confessor; its most dedicated benefactor Henry III; warrior kings Edward I and III, Henry V; most Tudors and Stuarts; the great and good (and bad) of British society down the centuries. Surely one of England's greatest treasures: the Cosmati Pavement; and of course the ancient Coronation Chair, the centrepiece of a certain grand affair only months ago. The treasure is virtually endless.

Please note 1) Once in the Abbey, our tour is more or less self-guided although we'll have a Blue Badge Guide accompanying. 2) That the end time is purely guesswork! - you can remain in the Abbey as long as you wish!

Pricing: If you are a member of the Abbey Association or otherwise eligible for free entry to the Abbey, please go ahead and book and we will refund you appropriately.

Places restricted to 15. London Historians members only. .

Host or Publisher London Historians