Summer: Evening in the cloisters
Enjoy a relaxed summer evening in the cloisters with live music, drinks, and centuries of history all around you.
For one evening only, step into the Abbey cloisters after hours and experience a remarkable blend of music, storytelling, and heritage. As part of Westminster’s Inside Out Festival, this special event invites you to relax with a drink in the open air while enjoying live performances and intimate talks.
Whether you come to unwind or be inspired, summer evenings in the cloisters offers a relaxed and memorable way to experience Westminster Abbey this summer.
Programme:
Live music and bar
Relax and unwind in the centre of our beautiful medieval cloisters with familiar tunes performed by singer Daisy Chute. A cash bar will be available across the evening.
Daisy Chute will play two sets from 6:00pm – 7:00pm and 7:30pm – 8:30pm. This performance is held in collaboration with Found in Music.
Get creative
Have a go at collaging under the guidance of artist Laxmi Hussain. Work alongside other visitors to craft a colourful artwork that celebrates the architectural beauty of Westminster Abbey.
Storytelling
Enjoy captivating stories from three women storytellers that celebrate themes of identity, global cultures and nature amongst the historic surroundings of the Abbey’s 13th century chapter house.
7:00pm – Olivia Armstrong
7:30pm – Wendy Sheerer
8:00pm – Debbie Guneratne
History highlights
Tour the Abbey cloisters and hear tales from the lives of both former residents and those buried and remembered at the Abbey. Learn more about our historic memorials and reflect on the way that our national past is commemorated at Westminster Abbey.
Tours will last approximately 20 minutes and will depart from the South Cloister at: 6:15pm, 6:45pm, 7:15pm, 7:45pm and 8:15pm.
Heritage craft
Celebrate British craftsmanship by trying your hand at embroidery under the guidance of the expert team from Hand & Lock. Have a go at adding stitches to a piece designed to celebrate the intricate decorations found in the chapter house.
Please note that access is limited to the cloisters only, there is no entry to the main Abbey interior during this event.
Ticketing Information
This event does not include entry to Westminster Abbey. We recommend looking at the Visit us pages to plan a visit during opening hours.
Age suitability
Young people over the age of 16 are welcome to attend this event. Please be aware that alcohol will be available for purchase and ID will be checked.
Timings
You are welcome to attend Evensong at 5:00pm before the event begins.
Doors will open at 6:00pm
The programme will begin at 6:15pm
Meeting location
Entry to the Cloisters will be via the Cloister Entrance to Westminster Abbey, located in Dean’s Yard.
Access and security
Please have your ticket ready to show our staff (either printed or on your mobile phone).
On your arrival, your bag will be searched and we ask you not to bring any large items with you (for example suitcases, large backpacks or folding bicycles) as these will not be allowed inside and we are unable to store them for you.
The Abbey is committed to creating inclusive and accessible events for all. If you have any access requirements or questions about your visit, please contact us when booking. [email protected]
Filming and photography
Please note that filming and sound recording are not permitted at the Abbey. See our photography policy for more information.
Summer at the Abbey
Discover Westminster Abbey in new and unexpected ways this summer. Be inspired with creative workshops, poetry, live music and hidden stories waiting to be uncovered.
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This event has been made possible through the support of Westminster City Council. It is part of Inside Out Festival 2025, a season of cultural programming taking place across Westminster in August 2025. |
