Westminster Travel Guide
Step into the heart of London’s history, royalty, and politics
Westminster, England, is one of the most iconic parts of London, packed with world-famous landmarks, historic institutions, and royal palaces. Located at the centre of the London Westminster Borough, it offers visitors a mix of heritage, culture, and vibrant city life.
Whether you’re admiring the Gothic architecture of the Palace of Westminster, crossing the famous Westminster Bridge, or exploring the elegant areas in Westminster like St. James’s and Pimlico, this district is a must-see destination in London, England.
Must-See Spots in Westminster
PALACE OF WESTMINSTER & BIG BEN
Westminster Abbey
Buckingham Palace
St. James Park
Churchill War Rooms
Westminster Cathedral
Westminster Bridge
10 Downing Street
Victoria Tower Gardens
What to Do in Westminster
Looking for things to do in Westminster London? This historic borough is packed with cultural highlights, royal traditions, and riverside walks. Whether you’re into history, sightseeing, or food, there’s always something to discover.
Cultural & Historic Experiences
- Tour the Palace of Westminster: Step inside the Houses of Parliament to explore where British democracy is shaped, or admire the Gothic architecture with Big Ben as the backdrop.
- Visit Westminster Abbey: From royal weddings and coronations to the resting places of monarchs and poets, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the top Westminster London attractions.
- Explore the Churchill War Rooms: Go underground into the secret bunker where Winston Churchill and his cabinet directed Britain’s WWII efforts.
Relax & Unwind in Westminster
- Stroll through St. James’s Park: A peaceful green escape with lakes, gardens, and direct views of Buckingham Palace.
- Walk along the Thames and Westminster Bridge: Perfect for photos of Big Ben, the London Eye, and the South Bank.
- Enjoy Parliament Square: Surrounded by statues of world leaders, it’s a lively spot that captures the political and cultural energy of Westminster, England.
Where to Eat in Westminster
Looking for where to eat in Westminster? This area offers everything from traditional pubs to elegant restaurants near its famous landmarks.
- Restaurants near Westminster Abbey: Try The Cellarium Café & Terrace (inside the Abbey grounds) or The Ivy Victoria for a stylish dining experience.
- Restaurants near Westminster Bridge: Head to Gillray’s Steakhouse & Bar for classic British cuts with river views, or Locale Westminster for Italian comfort food.
- Traditional Pub Fare: Many pubs around Westminster serve hearty fish & chips, Sunday roasts, and local ales.
- Afternoon Tea near Buckingham Palace: Enjoy a quintessentially British experience in nearby luxury hotels. setting.
The History of WESTMINSTER
From royal palaces and political power to cultural landmarks, blending centuries of tradition with modern London life.
Westminster’s history spans more than a thousand years. It first rose to prominence in the 10th century with the foundation of Westminster Abbey, which became the site of royal coronations. Later, the Palace of Westminster emerged as the seat of the English (and later British) government.
By the Middle Ages, Westminster was both a political and religious centre. With the growth of London, it became part of the capital city but retained its symbolic status.Today, Westminster England remains the political and ceremonial heart of the nation — blending centuries of tradition with modern London life.
Westminster’s history spans more than a thousand years. It first rose to prominence in the 10th century with the foundation of Westminster Abbey, which became the site of royal coronations. Later, the Palace of Westminster emerged as the seat of the English (and later British) government.
By the Middle Ages, Westminster was both a political and religious centre. With the growth of London, it became part of the capital city but retained its symbolic status.
Today, Westminster England remains the political and ceremonial heart of the nation — blending centuries of tradition with modern London life.
Practical Information for Visiting Westminster
Westminster is one of London’s most historic and prestigious areas, home to world-famous landmarks, royal palaces, and cultural treasures. To help you make the most of your visit, here’s everything you need to know — from must-see attractions to the best places to eat, relax, and explore in the heart of London.
Getting around Westminster
The London Westminster Borough is easy to explore on foot, as most attractions are close together. The main Underground stations are Westminster, St. James’s Park, and Victoria, with buses and Thames river boats also connecting the area.
- Shopping spots
- Cultural sites
- Pubs
- Parks
- Restaurants
Opening Hours
Usually open on Saturdays and during parliamentary recess. Book in advance.
Opens Monday to Saturday from 9:30 AM to 3:30 PM (varies by season). Closed Sundays except for services.
Open daily from 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM.
Open 24/7, perfect for a visit at any time of day.
Closest tube stations
Where to Stay in Westminster
If you’re wondering where to stay in Westminster London, you’ll find options ranging from luxury hotels to stylish serviced apartments. Staying in Westminster means you can walk to Buckingham Palace, Parliament, and Westminster Abbey.
For those seeking elegance and comfort, nearby Mayfair and Victoria also offer excellent accommodation choices, while still being just minutes from the heart of Westminster.
FAQs about Westminster, London
Westminster, England, is famous for being the political and royal heart of London. It’s home to iconic landmarks such as the Palace of Westminster, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, and the historic Westminster Bridge. Visitors come to experience the ceremonial traditions, rich history, and stunning architecture of the London Westminster Borough.
Many areas in Westminster, including Parliament Square, St. James’s Park, and Westminster Bridge, are free to explore. Some attractions, like Westminster Abbey, the Churchill War Rooms, or guided tours of the Palace of Westminster, require tickets. Walking around the borough allows you to see much of the beauty of Westminster, England, without spending a penny.
The best time to visit Westminster London is during spring and summer, when the parks are in full bloom and the weather is pleasant for walking tours along the Thames. Winter evenings offer stunning views of the landmarks lit up, including Westminster Bridge and the Houses of Parliament, though some attractions may have shorter hours.
Yes! Families can enjoy a walk through St. James’s Park, take photos at Buckingham Palace, visit the Churchill War Rooms, or explore the Westminster Abbey. A stroll across Westminster Bridge also provides panoramic views of the city that kids love, making it easy to find stuff to do in Westminster for all ages.
Westminster offers a variety of dining options. For classic British cuisine, try the historic pubs around Parliament Square. For fine dining, check out restaurants near Westminster Abbey, such as The Cellarium Café & Terrace or The Ivy Victoria. Near Westminster Bridge, you can enjoy river views while dining at Gillray’s Steakhouse & Bar or Locale Westminster. These are some of the top places to eat in Westminster for visitors.
The London Westminster Borough includes several distinctive areas: St. James’s (royal palaces and clubs), Victoria (transport hub with theatres and dining), Pimlico (residential charm), Whitehall (government offices), and Westminster proper around Parliament, Abbey, and Westminster Bridge. Each offers unique attractions and experiences for visitors.
Some of the top things to do in Westminster London include touring the Palace of Westminster, visiting Westminster Abbey, watching the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace, strolling across Westminster Bridge, and exploring the historic parks and gardens. You can also enjoy cultural attractions like the Churchill War Rooms and Westminster Cathedral for a well-rounded experience.
When deciding where to stay in Westminster London, consider areas like Victoria or Mayfair for easy access to the main attractions. There are luxury hotels, serviced apartments, and boutique options that put you within walking distance of Buckingham Palace, Parliament, Westminster Abbey, and the Thames Riverside, making it convenient to explore the London Westminster Borough.