Trails for self-led visits
For self-led visits, why not use one of our downloadable trails. They’re a great way to get the most out of your visit and learn more about Westminster Abbey. We would recommend spending 60 to 90 minutes at the Abbey.
Abbey Highlights
Abbey Highlights is the perfect trail to help you explore this ancient royal church. See where monarchs are crowned, stand where poets and scientists lie buried and view the magnificent medieval architecture. This is a great introduction to Westminster Abbey.
Suitable for: KS2
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Teachers' notes
Abbey and Parliament
With over 1,000 years of shared history to explore, use this trail to discover the connections between Westminster Abbey and the Houses of Parliament. Students will be encouraged to think about democracy and changemaking while learning about the events, people and architecture that link these two buildings.
Suitable for: KS2 and KS3
Trail
Teachers' notes
Art and Architecture
Explore the different architectural styles that make up this ancient building by finding and comparing a range of features. Learn about and investigate the symbolism of Christian art within the Abbey, including paintings and stained-glass windows, and create your own designs.
Suitable for: KS2
Trail
Teachers' notes
Changemakers at the Abbey
From suffragists to scientists, activists to abolitionists, explore some of the many changemakers remembered here at Westminster Abbey. Students will learn about the contributions of these individuals and be encouraged to think about the different ways people can make a positive impact on society.
Suitable for: KS2 and KS3
Trail
Teachers' notes
Christian Life and Worship
Use this trail to find and identify the symbolic shapes, objects and colours inside this ancient Christian church. Learn about important parts of Christian worship including prayer, music, and the sacraments of baptism and Holy Communion.
Suitable for: KS2 and KS3
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Teachers' notes
Kings, Queens and Coronations
Follow the journey of a new monarch using this coronations trail. View the ancient Coronation chair, learn about the Crown Jewels and stand next to the spot where monarchs have been crowned since 1066. You can also view the tombs of past kings and queens.
Suitable for: KS2
Trail
Teachers' notes
Maths at the Abbey
Westminster Abbey is full of geometric shapes, clever calculation and symmetry. Use this trail to explore how mathematical skills were essential in the design and building of this historic church and have some fun with maths outside the classroom.
Suitable for: KS2 and KS3
Trail
Teachers' notes
Tudors
Learn about the Tudors and some of the religious changes brought about by Henry VIII. All Tudor monarchs were crowned at Westminster Abbey, and most are buried in the spectacular chapel built by Henry VII. Have fun exploring the symbolism of the Tudor tombs.
Suitable for: KS2 and KS3
Trail
Teachers' notes
Abbey Highlights
Unpack 1,000 years of faith and history in one building with this overview trail, ideal for a cross-curricular, first-time visit. Encourage close-looking and critical thinking as students explore this UNESCO World Heritage site, reflecting on the stories it contains.
Suitable for: KS4 and post-16
Trail
Abbey and Parliament
Uncover numerous links between Westminster Abbey and Parliament within this politics-themed trail. Find out how people’s rights to vote, protest and voice their beliefs are evident through memorials, as well as leaders’ experiences of the Abbey over centuries.
Suitable for: KS4 and post-16
Trail
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