Summer: Local Lives Walking Tour
Take a guided walk around Westminster Abbey to uncover the diverse stories of the people who shaped its vibrant past.
Explore the rich and surprising history of the neighbourhood around Westminster Abbey on this guided walk with Blue Badge Guide Angela Morgan. Discover how this once-isolated island, known as Thorney Island, evolved into a cultural and political hub.
Hear the stories of remarkable figures who lived and worked in its shadow, from T.E. Lawrence ("Lawrence of Arabia") to Ignatius Sancho, the formerly enslaved composer and abolitionist. This walking tour reveals the hidden human stories that shaped Westminster over the centuries.
About Angela Morgan
Angela Morgan is a Blue Badge Tourist Guide (qual.2013). One of her favourite places to visit is Westminster Abbey. For her it’s the Abbey’s long history, the continuity of traditions, the stories of those who are memorialised or laid to rest there and the services that connect the past to the present. Her favourite place is the Grave of the Unknown Warrior and the importance of remembrance. Angela enjoys finding the ‘hidden’ stories within the Abbey and the area around Westminster Abbey. It is a great place to discover the less well-known stories and personalities.
Ticketing Information
There is a maximum of 20 people per tour.
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
Children under the age of 18 will not be permitted on this tour, please see our family pages for information and events to explore this theme as a family.
Timings
These tours will depart promptly from the North Green and end in Dean’s Yard.
Each tour will last approximately 75 minutes and they will start and end on the grounds of Westminster Abbey
If you are joining the 2:00pm tour on Wednesday 13th August, you are welcome to attend Brass on the Grass in College Garden for free before the tour.
Meeting Location
This event will meet on the North Green of Westminster Abbey.
Access and Security
Please have your ticket ready to show our staff (either printed or on your mobile phone).
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. |
