Where exactly is Westminster then?
You can’t really miss Westminster if you’re exploring London – it’s right in the heart of the city, extending from the River Thames to Oxford Street. It encompasses Soho, Mayfair, Covent Garden and a whole host of historic landmarks.
How about some history?
Sure, we’ll whittle it down... Back in the day (the 11th Century, to be specific), Westminster was mostly marshland and lacking in government vibes. Then King Edward the Confessor rocked up, took a shine to the swamp, and founded the Abbey. A couple of decades later, William the Conqueror was crowned there, solidifying the Abbey as a Very Important Place.
Over time the Abbey was expanded and rebuilt with other sovereigns making it their royal HQ and, consequently, this turned the whole area into a political powerhouse. The name ‘Westminster’ came from the Abbey being the ‘minister’ in the west, as opposed to St Paul’s in the east and it seems like the moniker well and truly stuck.
Westminster Abbey looking splendid in the sunshine
What would a perfect day in Westminster look like?
Here’s how to do a whistle-stop tour of Westminster’s best bits in a single day.
- Hop on the tube to Westminster station.
- You’ll arrive outside Big Ben – get those gorgeous early morning photos.
- Then, head over to the one, the only Westminster Abbey just around the corner.
- En route, you can take a quick detour to Downing Street if you want to wave to the PM.
- After the Abbey, it’s a 15-minute walk to Buckingham Palace. Stroll through St James Park and up the Mall.
- Take the obligatory Buckingham Palace selfie and then swing by Belgravia for a spot of lunch.
- After lunch, head back down The Mall and visit the Household Cavalry Museum. You might even catch the afternoon inspection.
- Then make your way to Trafalgar Square to chill out by the fountains.
- If you have time, pop into the National Gallery to see some very famous paintings.
- Finally, we’d recommend grabbing dinner in Covent Garden where there’s a tonne of great dining options whatever your budget.
The Abbey again - gorgeous inside and out
What are Westminster’s absolute must-sees?
Westminster Abbey
Well you knew this one was going to be first, didn’t you? Where better to start than where it all started – the Abbey. Since William the Conqueror, every British monarch in history has been coronated there, and it’s been the venue for the most memorable royal weddings in history too. Explore Westminster Abbey for yourself and discover lots of impressive statues, monuments and memorials inside.
Buckingham Palace
The official royal residence of the King is of course a great spot for a selfie or two. Enjoy a walk up The Mall – a road that’s literally laid out like a red carpet up to the palace – and peek through the gates at the opulent exterior. Over the summer months, the palace opens its doors so you can have a nosy at the interiors too!
Big Ben
Getting a photo of Big Ben is another must on the ol’ London checklist, and you can get the perfect one from across the water over on the other side of Westminster Bridge. If you’re super organised, you can even book a tour inside Big Ben on the official UK Parliament website. Tickets are released every second Wednesday of the month.
Trafalgar Square
Another quintessential London photo stop is Trafalgar Square – home to Nelson’s column, the famous Trafalgar Square lions and two spectacular fountains. Don’t miss the city’s smallest police station hiding in the south-east corner of the square. And be wary of sneaky pigeons if you’re stopping there for a sarnie.
National Gallery
This grand, impressive building is right opposite Trafalgar Square and home to tonnes of artistic treasures. It’s completely free to enter, and you can see world-famous works of art including Sunflowers by Vincent Van Gogh, The Hay Wain by John Constable and many more by Monet, Cezanne and Rembrandt. Just get there early as queues can get long.
Trafalgar Square's fabulous fountain
What about Westminster’s hidden gems?
The Household Cavalry Museum
If you’re loving London’s royal sights and attractions, don’t miss the chance to get a behind-the-scenes look at Household Cavalry staff in action. Wander through the working stables and catch the Changing of The King’s Life Guard ceremony.
The Jewel Tower
This aptly-named hidden gem was originally built to be the King’s personal treasure vault. It’s one of the oldest-surviving parts of the Palace of Westminster (also known as the Houses of Parliament) and remains virtually unaltered today. Explore the Jewel Tower and learn all about the riches and whims of monarchs past.
Pickering Place
This innocuous square is said to be the smallest courtyard in London and where the last public duel took place. Find the easy-to-miss entrance on St. James Street near Pall Mall – it has a number 3 above the door. Inside, you can see the original period gaslights and gorgeous Georgian architecture while enjoying the tranquil spot.
The Household Cavalry Museum
Where can I eat in Westminster?
You’ve got an eclectic mix of options ranging from Michelin-starred restaurants to cute and quaint cafes. We’d recommend Seven Dials Market – an indoor, multi-level food court with over 20 eateries to choose from. No need to argue about dining options!
Where can I drink in Westminster?
If you’re keen to try out one of London’s famous watering holes, you’re in luck, as Westminster has the highest number of pubs in the city. There are 435 in total, so you might not make your way to them all. But, top picks include the Marquis of Granby near the Houses of Parliament, which is often frequented by famous faces, and The Two Chairman – the oldest public house in the area.
Where can I shop in Westminster?
Oxford Street is one of the world’s biggest shopping streets and you’ll find just about everything here, with over 90 flagship stores to browse and some big-name department ones too. You’ve also got Covent Garden for niche fashion finds, craft markets and high-end shops.
Enjoyed this? Read St. Paul’s Cathedral VS Westminster Abbey or discover the top things to do in Piccadilly Circus. You might also want to wander over to Southwark and explore another London neighbourhood.
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