Enjoy summer at the Abbey

Throughout July and August, visitors are invited to experience the Abbey in new and surprising ways at a special season of guided tours, after-hours experiences, creative workshops and family events – all set against the backdrop of one of London’s most iconic landmarks.

Summer season highlights include:

Unwind after hours

Summer: Wednesday Abbey Lates

Selected dates in July and August

Experience Westminster Abbey in a quieter light during our special Wednesday late openings. With fewer visitors you’ll be able to explore over 1,000 years of history at your own pace. Wander through the majestic nave, marvel at the Lady Chapel ceiling, and pause in Poets’ Corner. These peaceful evenings offer a serene and contemplative way to connect with one of London’s most iconic buildings.

Summer: Evenings at the Abbey

Selected dates in July and August

Make the most of summer evenings with a special after-hours experience at Westminster Abbey. Wander through beautiful spaces like the Lady Chapel and Poets’ Corner at your own pace, then step into the cloisters for live music, drinks, and a peaceful summer atmosphere. With fewer crowds and performances curated by Found in Music, it’s a unique way to enjoy the Abbey’s history, beauty, and tranquillity as the sun sets.

Summer: Evening in the Cloisters

Thursday 21^st August, 6.00pm – 9.00pm

Experience a relaxing summer evening as Westminster Abbey’s medieval cloisters open after hours for an unforgettable night of music, storytelling, and heritage.

As part of Westminster City Council’s Inside Out Festival, this one-night-only event invites you to sip a drink under the open sky while soaking up live music from Found in Music, hear powerful tales from women storytellers, and enjoy bite-sized talks revealing the secrets of the cloisters. Please note: access is limited to the cloisters and the event does not include entry to the Abbey church.

Try something new

Art at the Abbey Workshops

Selected dates throughout August

This summer, take a moment to slow down and sketch in the peaceful surroundings of Westminster Abbey’s historic gardens and cloisters. These evening workshops, open to all levels, are led by a different artist each week, offering fresh perspectives on drawing, architecture, and nature. With materials provided and no experience needed, it’s a unique opportunity to get creative in one of London’s most inspiring settings.

Poetry workshops

Selected dates throughout August

History and poetry meet at this trio of inspiring writing workshops at Westminster Abbey, led by acclaimed poets Jacob Sam-La Rose and Bella Cox. Set within the Abbey’s tranquil gardens and historic spaces, each workshop offers a chance to reflect and create, inviting you to explore personal themes of Nature, Faith, and Identity through imaginative prompts and gentle guidance.

Hear surprising stories

Local Lives Walking Tour

Selected dates in August

Take a fresh look at the historic heart of London with a guided walk led by expert Blue Badge Guide Angela Morgan. Journey through the streets around Westminster Abbey and uncover how the once remote Thorney Island evolved into the beating heart of Britain’s cultural and political life. Along the way, hear the fascinating stories of figures who shaped the area’s legacy, from the adventures of T.E. Lawrence to the powerful voice of Ignatius Sancho. This tour brings centuries of hidden human history to life right where it happened.

Stories from the Stones Tour

Selected dates in August

Uncover the hidden stories etched into the cloisters of Westminster Abbey on this atmospheric after-hours tour with storyteller Olivia Armstrong. As you walk beneath the vaulted arches, you’ll hear powerful tales of the people memorialised here, from the famous to the forgotten, bringing centuries of history and mystery to life in one of the Abbey’s most historic spaces.

Summer at the Abbey

Among the other highlights will be the return of the ever-popular Brass on the Grass band concerts on Wednesday lunchtimes; ten-minute Memorial of the Month talks exploring some of the Abbey’s most fascinating monuments; activities for families and children; and art and craft activities. 

Further information

Find out more about Summer at the Abbey and how to book tickets