Travel operators and Blue Badge Tourist Guides will be able to pre-book discounted group tickets with timed entry to the historic London landmark.
The group booking system has been introduced in preparation for the opening of the King Charles III Sacristy, a new building which will be used to welcome visitors.
Westminster Abbey welcomes guided tour groups of up to 20 when accompanied by a Blue Badge Tourist Guide. To access the group booking portal, travel operators and guides can register for an account directly on the Abbey’s website.
The King Charles III Sacristy
The construction of The King Charles III Sacristy is currently underway and is due to be completed in late 2026. It is being built on the medieval footprint of the original sacristy which was destroyed in the 18th century.
The new building will be used to welcome visitors and will house security and ticketing facilities, allowing the Abbey to be preserved as a sacred space.
Leticia Edwards, groups and travel trade manager at Westminster Abbey, said: “Our new group booking system makes it easier than ever for Blue Badge Tourist Guides to plan and book visits to the Abbey and create an unforgettable day out for their parties.
“Previously, guides had to turn up on the day and queue to enter the Abbey, but now they can book with confidence knowing all groups will enjoy a seamless visit with guaranteed timed entry, allowing everyone to fully appreciate the Abbey’s beauty and rich history.”
What can visitors see?
During a guided group guided tour, visitors can explore the royal tombs, see the Coronation Chair, visit the Poets’ Corner, and explore The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Galleries which showcase more than 300 objects.
Visiting groups can also walk through the Cloisters dating back to the 13th century which were used by the Abbey’s Benedictine monks for exercise and meditation.
Verger-guided tours are also available at the Abbey and take visitors to see areas of the Abbey not accessible to the general public, including the Tomb of St Edward the Confessor. Tours last around 90 minutes and are available for up to 20 people.
History of the Abbey
Westminster Abbey has history stretching back more than 1,000 years to 960 when it was constructed as a Benedictine monastery and rebuilt by St Edward the Confessor in 1065.
It has hosted every coronation since 1066 and is the burial place for various icons of British history, including Charles Dickens, Sir Isaac Newton, Elizabeth I and the Grave of the Unknown Warrior, commemorating all of those who died during World War One.
For more information about group visits to Westminster Abbey, visit www.westminster-abbey.org.
