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.

The back of several judges' heads

A Service to mark the opening of the Legal Year in England and Wales 2023

Monday, 2nd October 2023

11.30am - 12.30pm
The Abbey
Invitation only

Edwardtide Pilgrimage 2023

Edwardtide Pilgrimage 2023

Saturday, 14th October 2023

09:30 - 16:00
The Abbey
Free (no booking required)

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.

Battle of Britain anniversary marked at Westminster Abbey

Battle of Britain anniversary marked at Westminster Abbey

Sunday, 17th September 2023

Admiral of the Fleet Lord Boyce remembered

Admiral of the Fleet Lord Boyce remembered

Thursday, 13th July 2023

NHS celebrates 75th anniversary

NHS celebrates 75th anniversary

Wednesday, 5th July 2023

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

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