Access at Westminster Abbey
Westminster Abbey is open to all. We strive to create an inclusive environment so everyone can enjoy the Abbey.
Getting to Westminster Abbey
The nearest step-free underground station is Westminster station (0.1 miles). London Victoria station is also step-free (0.7 miles).
For more information on how to get here by public transport, see our Visit page or plan your journey with Transport for London.
Blue Badge parking
Blue Badge holders in Westminster can park in designated disabled bays, pay-and-display bays, and on single yellow lines under certain conditions, with specific rules for controlled hours and exemptions.
These bays typically allow up to four hours free parking during controlled hours, unless otherwise signposted, and unlimited parking outside controlled hours.
The closest available options managed by Westminster City Council are:
- Matthew Parker Street: This is the closest designated Blue Badge bay to the Abbey area, situated just to the north.
- Tothill Street: Located a short distance away, this street offers 2 dedicated disabled parking bays.
- Old Queen Street: Located slightly further out but within a reasonable radius, offering 1 dedicated disabled parking bay.
Designated drop-off space
A designated drop-off space is permitted outside the Great West Door for those arriving by taxi or accessible transit.
Arriving at Westminster Abbey
Entrance
Step-free entry is available for visitors at both the North Door and the Great West Door. There is a wheelchair-accessible door at the North Door (facing Parliament Square)
Tickets
We offer free admission to registered disabled visitors and their essential companion. You can book tickets in advance via our ticketing website.
Assistance dogs
We welcome suitably trained assistance dogs at the Abbey.
To protect the Abbey and for everyone's comfort and safety, your assistance dog must be under your care and control during your visit. Where possible, they should remain on lead and wear a relevant tabard or harness.
Water bowls for assistance dogs are available in the Abbey.
Getting around
Accessible routes
Upon your arrival, the Abbey Marshals will provide you with the standard visitor map layout and actively point out or guide you along the step-free connecting paths.
If you are planning an unassisted visit or have complex spacing needs, it is highly recommended to email [email protected] ahead of time. They can provide tailored advice on the current flow of the floor layout for your specific day of entry.
Borrowing mobility aids
Manual wheelchairs are available for visitors to borrow free of charge. You can request one from an Abbey Marshal when you arrive.
Accessible toilets
Westminster Abbey has fully accessible toilets available for visitors located within the Cloisters area of the Abbey grounds, which can be reached via a step-free path from the main church building or directly through Dean's Yard. These facilities are designed to accommodate wheelchairs and feature support grab rails.
If you are on-site and need directions, any Abbey Marshal or member of the visitor experience team can guide you along the step-free route to reach them.
Seating
The Abbey has extensive permanent bench and seating located throughout the Nave and the South Transept where visitors are welcome to sit, rest, and take in the architecture.
Facilities
For more information on facilities, including our café and shops, contact [email protected].
The Queen's Diamond Jubilee Galleries
A lift is available providing step-free access to the Queen's Diamond Jubilee Galleries. The lift can accommodate wheelchairs.
Access resources
Audio descriptions and guides
For visitors who are blind or partially sighted, the Abbey offers tailored resources to ensure an accessible experience including audio-described tours, created in collaboration with the visual impairment charity VocalEyes.
Hearing loop
The Abbey is equipped with a hearing loop system that covers the whole of the Abbey main building. This system is used at all services.
Audio described tours
Audio described tours are available when visiting the Abbey. You can access the guide using a device we supply, or download a shortened version of the guide on your mobile or tablet.
Accessible visits
We run dementia-friendly tours, BSL events, and touch tours. For a full programme of events see What's On.
Contact us
If you'd like to tell us about your accessibility needs or ask a question before your visit, get in touch:
- Email: [email protected]
- Phone number: +44 (0)20 7222 5152