Westminster District Guide in London

You're going to London soon? During your stay, don’t miss visiting Westminster, the uncontournable royal quarter of the city!

Westminster, known as the historic heart of the city, is undoubtedly a must-see neighborhood in London. This is the royal quarter of the capital. Located on the banks of the Thames, Westminster has a large part of the entertainment, attractions and monuments to be seen in London. It is here that Buckingham Palace is located and its famous watchmanship, the sublime Abbey of Westminster, the unbelievable Big Ben or the magnificent Saint James Park. Are you coming for a small city break in London? You are told everything you need to know to visit Westminster, the so-British neighbourhood!

The Westminster quarter in a few words

Westminster is one of the oldest districts of London, located in the city of the same name (city of Westminster). The district is named after its emblematic Abbaye.

His name, Westminster, which means “the monastery of the west”, comes to him from Saint Dunstan . In the 10th century, he founded the collegial church of Saint Peter, to set up a community of Benedictine monks. This church was located west of the City. Today, she is named Westminster Abbey!

Then King Edward the Confesseur decided to build his palace near the monastery. The abbey of Westminster then becomes the unique and traditional place of crowning and burial of British kings and queens.

What to see and what to do in Westminster?

When you think of London, what are the first images that come to mind? Big Ben, "Queen Elizabeth", the hats of the queen's guards (or those of the queen!), the marriage of Kate and William, Buckingham Palace... And where do you find all this in London? Westminster!

Visiting Westminster is visiting the city’s most iconic district. So here's all you shouldn't miss.

Big Ben and the Palace of Westminster

On the banks of the Thames, admire the Palace of Westminster, a magnificent neo-Gothic building, where Parliament sits. One of the 3 towers of the building stands out by its height, its sublime clock and the large bell it contains.

You will of course have guessed it, it is Big Ben. Photo obligatory, say "cheeeese"!

Westminster Abbey

As beautiful on the outside as on the inside, the Abbey of Westminster and the true symbol of the neighborhood, which bears its cause. It has now been 700 years since she has been hosting the largest monarchs, whether for funerals, crowns or weddings. The last date is April 19, 2011... Don't you need to give you the names? If you are going to visit Westminster, it is truly a must!

Also, don’t miss the superb small museum in the basement of the Abbey: the Westminster Abbey Museum.

Buckingham Palace

Are you visiting Westminster? Buckingham Palace is the absolute symbol of the British monarchy. It’s just the Queen’s house. It is possible to visit certain State rooms, the art gallery and its porcelain collection, or its stables.

Guard rotation

Every two days (every day in May and July), you can attend the palace at this impressive ceremony. In the front courtyard of the Palace, watch the guards with red uniforms finish their service, and hand over to the new guard, on military musical airs.

The parade of the Horse Guard

The Horse Guard barracks are located on the other side of St Jame’s Park, near Whitehall. It also takes place every morning. Less folkloric than that of the Palace, it is still pleasant by the presence of horses. It also attracts less people, and it is always more enjoyable.

St Jame’s Park

London is full of beautiful parks and well maintained. St James’s Park is the city’s most frequented, certainly due to its location in front of Buckingham Palace. Don’t hesitate if you’re going to visit Westminster, walk along its perfectly carved lawns and lovely water points, while observing the elegant pelicans and squirrels players.

A real fresh air in the heart of the city!

La Tate Britain

Located southwest of Westminster, on the banks of the Thames, the Tate Modern is the British National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art. This former power plant now, most certainly, is one of the most beautiful museums in London. Besides, it’s free!

Guided tours to Westminster

Would you like to visit Westminster and learn more? Don't miss anything, opt for a guided tour of the neighborhood! Several types of visits exist.

A cruise on the Thames

A wonderful way to enjoy London and the most beautiful monuments in the Westminster district is on the Thames. From the Westminster Pier, climb a boat and sail to Greenwich, admiring the most beautiful buildings: the Palace of Westminster, the London Eye, Southbank, the Cathedral of Saint Paul, the Tate Modern, the Globe Theatre, the HMS Belfast, the Tower Bridge and much more!

The watch and the Westminster dome

If you’re going to visit Westminster, you should know that guard rotation is one of London’s major attractions. Experience an even more immersive royal experience with a guide that will take you to the best points of view to attend this fascinating show.

You will finish the visit on the top of the Westminster dome, which offers one of the most beautiful views on the capital.

Visit Westminster on foot

Ideal to immerse yourself in the neighborhood, you have the opportunity to visit Westminster on foot. Accompanied by an expert guide, you will discover the 20 most emblematic monuments of London through the streets. The little plus? Anecdotes about the history of the city told by an expert and passionate guide.

The history of Westminster through its pubs

Take a little of the beaten paths with a guided walk to the Westminster district. A unique moment to discover through five typical pubs in the neighborhood, where you will count the bloodiest stories by your guide.

“Afternoon Tea” at the Abbey of Westminster

Are you visiting Westminster? What is more typical than tasting English tea in the abbey of Westminster? This is what this atypical visit offers. Ride aboard a red bus called Routemaster and visit the English capital and its most iconic locations.

You will end the day with a “Afternoon Tea”, so dear to the English, in one of the most beautiful monuments of Westminster, its Abbey.

The best hotels in Westminster

You come to London and want to visit Westminster? The best idea is house in the neighborhood , because many must-see monuments are concentrated in this magnificent royal district.

But be warned, the neighborhood is pretty expensive! Here, no small cheap hostels, instead of chains known for the higher scholarships. Indeed, count about 160€ for a room in the famous chain DoubleTree by Hilton . Here you will be ideally located on the banks of the Thames, not far from the Tate Britain.

Close to St Jame’s Park Metro Station, you will enjoy the comfortable rooms offered by the Hub by Premier Inn London Westminster . You'll have to pay about €1,000 for one night. In return, you will be a 2-minute walk from the must-see monuments such as Buckingham Palace or Westminster Abbey.

A little less expensive, Victoria Station Hotel is located not far from the cathedral, close to Victoria Station. For less than 80€, you will put your suitcases in a room that has all the necessary comfort.

Where to eat in the Westminster neighborhood?

Walking, visiting, walking, digging! No panic, the neighborhood is full of good addresses to restore. Obviously, typical pubs are the real attractions of the neighborhood. Here are some good addresses we recommend:

• You can't visit Westminster without stopping by to take the best " english breakfast" from London to Regency Café.
• English gastronomy does not always have a good reputation. But if there’s a place where traditional British cuisine is put to the spotlight, it’s at Whistler Restaurant du Tate Britain.
• Finally, you must taste a delicious Fish & Chips! For that, go to the St Stephen’s Tavern on Bridge Street, right next to Big Ben.

How to get to Westminster?

London is a city perfectly served by public transport. To visit Westminster, it is very easy to access.

Here are the three main stations to visit Westminster:

• Stop. Westminster, lines Circle, District and Jubilee
• Stop. St. James’s Park, Circle and District lines
• Stop. Victoria, Circle lines, District and Victoria

You know everything you need to know to visit Westminster, so now: “ enjoy”!