Special services

We hold a wide variety of special services, including annual celebrations, memorials and commemorations. Many are held on behalf of the church, the Royal Family, or a national or international organisation.

Upcoming services

Attendance at our special services is usually by invitation only, but for some of them, you can apply for free tickets. Please check the listings below for details.

Exterior of Westminster Abbey, showing the West Towers and the Sanctuary

A Service of Thanksgiving for The Lord Boyce

Thursday, 13th July 2023

11.00am - 12.00pm
The Abbey
Free

More about the Commonwealth

More about the Commonwealth

Find out more about the Abbey's connection with the Commonwealth.

Commonwealth at the Abbey

Past special services

Read reports of some recent special services held at Westminster Abbey.

Three men by the Grave of the Unknown Warrior - two of them are about the lay wreaths

Westminster Abbey Marks ANZAC Day 2023

Tuesday, 25th April 2023

HM King Charles III rubbing noses (a traditional Maori greeting) with a member of the Ngati Ranana

The King celebrates Commonwealth Day 2023 at the Abbey

Monday, 13th March 2023

Prince William, Kate Middleton, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, King Charles and the Dean of Westminster. A Christmas tree can be seen in the background

Queen Elizabeth II remembered during Royal carol service

Saturday, 24th December 2022

Musicians celebrated at St Cecilia service

Musicians celebrated at St Cecilia service

Wednesday, 23rd November 2022

The Queen Consort receives a cross of remembrance from a member of the Armed Forces.

The Queen Consort opens the Field of Remembrance 2022

Thursday, 10th November 2022

Trees of life service takes place at the Abbey

Trees of life service takes place at the Abbey

Tuesday, 11th October 2022

See more reports of Special Services held at Westminster Abbey.

St Margaret's special services

St Margaret’s Church, Westminster Abbey, also holds a number of special services each year, and some are open to the public.

Events at St Margaret's